Jackson - Moon Québec City

SACHA JACKSON

Map 1: Vieux-Qubecs Upper Town
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Map 2: Vieux-Qubecs Lower Town
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Map 3: Parliament Hill and the Plains
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Map 4: Saint-Jean-Baptiste and Saint-Roch
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Map 5: Greater Qubec City
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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 province: the 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 people exude here. Temperatures drop below freezing in winter but bars and restaurants are still packed, with windows steaming with that unmistakable joie de vivre.

You can still walk the narrow, cobblestone streets of Vieux-Port 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 original architecture remains safe from the ravages of time. Protected by these walls is the Chteau Frontenac, Qubec Citys most famous sight, and the Sminaire de Qubec, one of the citys oldest sights.

the entrance into Vieux-Qubecs Upper Town

Vieux-Qubecs Lower Town

The stone Norman-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 trendy hotels.

Parliament Hill and the Plains

Outside of the walls are the Plains of Abraham and Battlefield Park, 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 is Muse National des Beaux-Arts du Qubec, which holds the largest existing collection of Qubec art.

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.

Les Fortifications, a popular place to take a break in the summer

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.

Excursions from Qubec City

Just a half-hour drive from the city are the picturesque towns of le dOrlans and Cte-de-Beaupr, while an hour north, the Charlevoix region has some of the most spectacular scenery in the region.