Andrea Bennett - Moon Québec City

the Terrasse Dufferin.

The province of Qubec is a place all its own: Its a country within a country with its own traditions, architecture, and language. Perched on a cliff above the St. Lawrence River, Qubec City is the soul of the provincethe first city to be founded in Canada, the seat of the Qubec government, and the self-proclaimed Capitale Nationale.

The historic landmarks and 17th-century architecture are captivating. But what will impress you the most is the infectious energy that the people exude. Temperatures drop below freezing in winter, but bars and restaurants are still packed, windows steaming with that unmistakable joie de vivre.

You can still walk the narrow, cobblestone streets of Vieux-Qubecs Lower Town or pose next to one of the many cannons that line the citys walls. But a youthful revolution in the old working-class neighborhoods is bringing a daring new quality of art and culture to this historic city.

Les Fortifications surround Vieux-Qubecs Upper Town, a 400-year-old neighborhood where the history of the winding streets and the original architecture remain safe from the ravages of time. These walls protect the Chteau Frontenac, Qubec Citys most famous sight, and the Sminaire de Qubec, one of the citys oldest sights.

The stone Normandy-style buildings and cobblestone streets of Place Royale mark the countrys birthplace. History is unavoidable here, from the narrow lanes of Quartier du Petit-Champlain to the historic Vieux-Port, with its converted warehouses, antiques shops, and boutique hotels.

view of Vieux-Qubecs Lower Town

Parliament Hill and the Plains

Just outside the citys fortifications, youll find the Parc des Plaines dAbraham, the site of Frances historic defeat by the British. The seat of the provincial government is to its north, housed in Htel du Parlement. Running alongside the government building are the nightclubs and bars of La Grande-Alle, the citys nightlife destination. Also in the Plains of Abraham is Muse National des Beaux-Arts du Qubec, which holds the largest existing collection of Qubec art.

the Htel du Parlement

Saint-Jean-Baptiste and Saint-Roch

Once working-class neighborhoods, Saint-Jean-Baptiste and Saint-Roch are now trendy, bohemian neighborhoods, home to the citys coolest kids, and the area where youll find the best bars, browse independent boutiques, and catch the latest bands. Its also a major arts hub, and the contemporary arts complex Mduse is located here.

Greater Qubec City

In the areas surrounding the center of the city, find kid-friendly destinations like the Aquarium du Qubec and the beautiful, sprawling gardens of Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge. The slopes of Mont-Sainte-Anne are fun for the whole family.