If you are fond of history, then the ‘Old Quebec City’ is a must visit place for you. This city is the second oldest city in Canada founded in 1608. Every year it attracts tourists from all over the world, especially during the months between June and September. This year I was fortunate to visit this place with my family (of course – followed the social distancing practice) after a long series of lockdowns due to COVID. I got to learn so much on my trip that it motivated me to write this blog. And here I am sharing my experiences and recommendations that will/may benefit those who are planning to visit this historic city in near future.
So, first things first – preparing for the trip. There is some homework that you need to do before leaving for Quebec city. I definitely recommend the following three things that you should do before heading ahead (even if you plan to visit this place just for a day)-
- Download Google Translator – in case you don’t know French. This mobile application serves as an excellent guide in hard times when you get stuck with everything written in French. At the end of my visit, I did learn new words like ‘Bonjour’ (meaning ‘hello’) and ‘Merci’ (meaning ‘thank you’) but am yet to learn French 😊
- Get Good Shoes – you have to walk a lot in this city. A good pair of shoes will really be helpful. I did get a new pair for myself as well as for my kids – encouraged them that these new shoes will not tire them… that’s how I made them walk a lot .. 😊 In case walking is not an option, you can still explore the city in a cruise as well.
- Chalk out a plan – if you are driving by car; search of the nearest parking locations in the city. If you are travelling by a cab, then no tensions. Also, find out eating places – with kids, you need to keep a tap on such places. If you are a veggie, then do this homework; there are tons of options available to explore.
Next, are the key places that you should visit. These are historic places that will amaze you and it is a good learning for kids too.
- Citadelle of Quebec (National Historic site) – The word ‘citadelle’ means a ‘fort’ and this fort in Quebec is a living fortress standing strong for more than 300 years. This is an active military installation base and also is the secondary official residence for the Canadian monarch and the Governor General. This fort was built to protect the city from foreign invasions. You need to purchase tickets to visit this fort which are available online as well. As you enter the fort, there are guides available at different locations who talk in English and French and provide details. You can take pictures for most of the areas inside as well as in the open spaces in the Citadelle (clicks with no flash). I spent two good hours in the fort – amazed with the architecture and history.
Quick Facts about Citadelle –
- The Royal 22e Regiment was assigned to the Citadelle in 1920 (after the First World War) and still continue to serve here.
- The Museum displays the weapons, medals and uniforms for the past three centuries (covering French, British and Canadian periods).
- The military architecture is a masterpiece, with multiple defense systems that protected the city. The rooftops are covered with grass – those times it used to camouflage the building.
2. Fairmount Le Chateau Frontenac (Historic hotel) – This hotel was opened in 1893, built by the Canadian Pacific Railway company; on a cliff near the river banks of St. Lawrence River. Today, this hotel is managed by Fairmount Hotels and Resorts. It has about 611 rooms and if you wish to enjoy your stay, you can book a room too (starting from $450+ per night). You can visit the hotel lobby and cherish the renovated designs.
Quick Facts about Frontenac–
- In 1926, a major fire destroyed many sections of the hotel and then it was rebuilt again. The remains of the older hotel today are preserved in a museum that you can visit and check out yourself on how the hotel operated, the utensils that were used, kitchen space, etc.
- The hotel was named after the legislative leader of New France – Frontenac Louis de Buade; he is recognized for defending the colony against British and Iroquois attacks.
- This inn has been honoured by many dignitaries, even from the British Royal family and has also hosted many important events and conferences.
- The area around the hotel is a lively open area, having a lot of public seating arrangements (in case you need a quick rest after miles of walking – the best option sit and enjoy the excellent view of the St Lawrence River and the Levis city across the river).
3. Lively Streets – Every street in Quebec City has its own tale to sing. This year the city hosted a carnival called ”Re-bonjour’ – you get to see artists singing and showcasing their talent. As you walk pass these streets, you enjoy the decorum, the architecture, the people around – a lot of art and history to explore. Amongst all, the murals – are the most interesting art work to be seen on the streets. I liked the one on the streets of Petit-Champlain (at the foot of the Chateau Frontenac)- it is a 900 square foot wall painting; depicting the various historical figures.
Quick Facts about the Quebec Streets–
- ‘Murals’ are paintings on a wall. The murals in Quebec depict the history of the city and its people and these are drawn in the years between 1999 and 2008 to celebrate 400 years of the city’s existence. There are about 20 such murals across the city.
- Old Quebec was recognized as a historic areas by UNSECO in 1985 for its beautiful French and British architecture, stone buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, terrace and roadside restaurants – all full of life.
- The street names are labelled as ‘Rue de’, which means ‘street’ – another word that I learnt in this trip.
4. Cathedral Notre-Dame de Quebec – This is the oldest church in Canada also recognized as a historic site. There are guided tours in this church -both in English and French to that helps to learn more about the church. You can stop by this church to offer prayers and light a candle too.
Quick Facts about Notre-Dame–
- The key features of this church are the tainted glass windows, the chancel golden sculpture – a masterpiece.
- It is the first church that was made of stone – opened in 1647.
- The church was declared as ‘basilica’ because it draws large number of pilgrimages.
- The church was burned twice but was rebuilt again.
It took me good two days to explore the Old Quebec City and it was worth a visit. The Parliament building too displays wonderful architecture, the park opposite to that has a huge fountain and many monuments/statues of few dignitaries like Mahatma Gandhi as well. As time permits, do visit the Museum of Civilization – another place to watch out for Quebecois history. This year July 2021 – this museum is hosting an exhibition MAYA – the oldest civilization. But yes, all this cannot be done in just a day 🙂
Signing off……..A memorable trip !!
This ancient city not only depicts a beautiful history but also offers variety of food options- so even if you are veggie- you would find simple veggie options like cheese pizza, pastas, juices, etc. As you pass through the streets, you would hear soothing music, shops selling goodies like magnets (I did grab some of them as a memory), tshirts, pencil sets for kids, maple syrup, key chain holders, mugs, etc. You will not get bored in this busy city for sure !
