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Jeff Frenette Photography
What to see in Québec City in one day? Well, exploring the city’s history should be at the top of everyone’s list–this is generally why people come to Québec City–quickly followed by a hot and gooey bowl of poutine!Here is how to catch Québec City's top highlights in one day.
- Day 1
Place Royale, Jeff Frenette Photography
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Jeff Frenette Photography
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Jeff Frenette Photography
1
Place Royale and Petit-Champlain
At the site of thefirst settlement of New France(now known as Québec City), wander the cobblestoned streets of thissmall neighbourhood, stopping by Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church which stands on the site of the first home and trading post of Samuel de Champlain when he established the first colony in 1608.As you reach the end of Rue Sous-le-Fort you’ll spot the Breakneck Stairs (Escalier Casse-Cou) on your right. To your left, Rue du Petit-Champlain, one of the oldest shopping streets in North America. Today, the cobblestone street is flanked by boutiques, artisan shops and restaurants. Charming (and busy!) during the day, this area is also quite beautiful at night. When you’ve had your fill of Petit-Champlain, walk back towards to Breakneck Stairs and ride the funicular to the top of Cap Diamant.
0.40 km
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Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
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Jeff Frenette Photography
2
Dufferin Terrace & Château Frontenac
A ride on the funicular offers a lovely view of Petit-Champlain district, Place Royale and the St. Lawrence River. When you exit the funicular hut, you will be standing onDufferin Terrace, facingChâteau Frontenacand a monument dedicated to Samuel de Champlain (the city’s founder). Spend time admiring the views from the terrace and the majesty of the château and stop by Au 1884 to buy an ice cream cone.
Lunchtime
There are quite a fewrestaurants to choose from in Old Québec.But there are alsoamazing sites to make a memorable picnic.
0.32 km
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Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, Étienne Dionne
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Daniel Abel Photographe officiel PNDQ
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Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
This impressive church hosted the first Catholic parish north of the Spanish colonies. It is also the home tothe only Holy Door outside Europe. Its interior is even more gorgeous than its beautiful exterior architecture.
0.26 km
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Jeff Frenette Photography
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Parcs Canada
With 4.6 km of ramparts and two majesticgates, this site is not to be missed. Thanks to its almost intact fortifications, Old Québec represents the best preserved and most complete example of a fortified colonial city on the continent north of Mexico.
1.32 km
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Jeff Frenette Photography
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Jeff Frenette Photography
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Citadelle de Québec
You can enjoy a spectacular view of Old Québec and the St. Lawrence River from the largest British fortress in North America.Don't forget to have your picture taken with a guard!
1.52 km
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Plains of Abraham, Jeff Frenette Photography
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CCBN
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Plains of Abraham
This huge urban park is steeped in history. It is the exact site werethe English army wonagainst the French in the famous battle of the Plains, in 1759.
1.77 km
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Jeff Frenette Photography
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Jeff Frenette Photography
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Jeff Frenette Photography
7
Admire the Lighted Buildings
After a full day of walking around the city and experiencing all that it has to offer,maybe you'd want to eat at one of therestaurants that showcase Québec's traditional foodor at one ofOld Quebec's fine dining restaurantsIf you are a lover ofcraft beer, you'll have plenty of choice in Saint-Roch Neighbourhood.
Evenings in Québec City tend to be more quiet and laid back, a good time to wander through the streets and admire the lighted buildings.
The secret to having the best day in Québec City is to indulge in the things you love most. Open your eyes and your heart. Make time to stop in a café for a coffee and pastry, try speaking French (the locals love it when tourists make an effort, no matter how bad that is) and take a lot of photos! After you spend the best day exploring Québec City you will likely want to come back for more (andstay longeras well!).
Add to Google Maps
Add the places mentioned in this article to your Google Maps so you'll have them handy during your trip.
More attractions in the Old Québec
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Ferme Langlois et Fils (Chez Médé), Market Gardener ECONOMUSEE®: Neuville Sweet Corn
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Ubald Distillerie
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Vignoble Domaine Sainte-Famille
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Quatre Natures - Jacques-Cartier
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Chocolaterie de l'Île d'Orléans (Sainte-Pétronille)
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L'Arc-en-ciel du Paradis
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Rivière Concept
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Station touristique duch*esnay
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Excursions Maritimes Québec
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