Old Quebec City

Photo Credit: Day Trips Canada

Make sure you have a great pair of shoes on before you head to Old Quebec City (Vieux-Québec) because you'll need them! Quebec City lies approximately 233 kilometers (145 mi) from Montreal in the province of Quebec along the banks of the mighty St. Lawrence River. The only city in the Americas north of Mexico to remain fortified by walls which surround the city,  Old Quebec was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985. Quebec City is also one of the oldest cities in North America and was founded in 1608 - over 400 years old!

Walking is the key to discovering Old Quebec and visitors quickly realize that they neither require a vehicle nor is a vehicle even practical. Upon arrival, it's easy to believe that you've arrived in France. Old Quebec mimics France with it's narrow winding cobblestone streets, cafes, historic monuments, fancy restaurants with sidewalk seating, and of course, people speaking French.

For those interested in history and architecture, the city offers countless examples of both. Many of the buildings in Old Quebec City date back to the late 1600's and many of these buildings are still in use today as shops, restaurants, and private residences. It is not uncommon to sit down in a restaurant and notice a plaque on the wall describing the very building you are occupying was built in 1690.

Some of the popular attractions include:

• The National Assembly Parliament Building
• Grand Allee
• The Citadel
• The Plains of Abraham
• Chateau Frontenac
• Dufferin Terrace
• Funaculaire du Vieux-Quebec
• Cathedral Notre-Dame-de-Quebec