Bordered by the St. Lawrence River, Old Québec or Vieux-Québec is the historic heart of the modern day City of Quebec. Divided into two distinct parts, the Upper Town and Lower Town, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a gateway into the history of the province. The Upper Town is set atop the Cap Diamant and is the city's historic administrative and military hub. Its most iconic landmark, the Citadelle with its star shaped design is an arresting edifice while the Chateau Frontenac is a mesmerizing vision of Victorian grandeur. The Upper Town is also one of the sites of the Carnaval de Quebec, considered to be among the largest winter festivals on the globe. The Lower Town, at the base of the mount, is the livelier of the two with a bustling market and vibrant Old Port. Amid hundreds of historic buildings, tourist attractions, pubs and restaurants lie dozens of boutiques, galleries, souvenir shops and other distinctive establishments. The Church of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires is another of Old Québec's many treasures.
This most beautifully preserved area of Vieux-Québec is also one of the city's cherished shopping districts. Quartier Petit Champlain is certainly heavily thronged to and many establishments cater to the visiting hordes. There are, nonetheless, many unique boutiques to be unearthed. Quebec fashion designers are featured heavily on the rue du Petit-Champlain, including Oclan, Point de Mire, Les Vêteries and Zazou. Numerous art and crafts galleries provide everything from souvenirs to high-end housewares; well-known stores include Brin de folie and the Galerie d'Art Bégin and Pauline Pelletier. High-quality jewelry is on offer at the magnificent Pierre Vives and Louis Perrier Jewelers. The district abounds with cafes and restaurants.
Galerie d’art inuit Brousseau et Brousseau, in Quebec's Vieux-Quebec neighborhood, was established by Raymond Brousseau in 1974. This gallery was where Brousseau could showcase his collection of sculptures by local artists, that he has been accumulating since 1956. In 1999, he opened the adjoining space as the The Brousseau Museum of Inuit Art. The Hydro Quebec Room is a permanent zone that showcases the original collection by Raymond Brousseau. Beautifully crafted sculptures by local Inuit artists, mainly revolving around their culture and beliefs, comprise the artworks on display at both these galleries.
Place Royale is a collection of buildings and narrow streets born in 1608 when explorer Samuel de Champlain established a secure fur trading post. It changed hands between the British and French, surviving fires and battles and eventually became Quebec City's version of "downtown." After a complete restoration, Place Royale is now the city's most picturesque place, sporting restaurants and cafes, as well as many tourist attractions. Be sure to visit the Maison Chevalier, the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and the Interpretive Center.
This is one of Quebec City's most popular parks and historical attractions. Commemorating the daring 1759 attack in which Quebec fell to the British under the leadership of General Wolfe, Plaines d'Abraham features two striking Martello Towers offering rotating displays and great views over the St Lawrence River. The interpretive center is housed in the Musée du Québec.
La Barberie is a micro-brewery that serves up some delightful varieties of local beers with their menu that changes on a daily basis, so you are sure to have something new here every time you visit. Some of the kinds of beers you are likely to find include Classic White, Blonde Bucolic, Light Rousse and Sure Cherry. They organize beer tastings on a regular basis, but one can order their sampler anytime they visit. The taproom has a warm feel, while one can also sit by their patio on a sunny day.
Bordered by the St. Lawrence River, Old Québec or Vieux-Québec is the historic heart of the modern day City of Quebec. Divided into two distinct parts, the Upper Town and Lower Town, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a gateway into the history of the province. The Upper Town is set atop the Cap Diamant and is the city's historic administrative and military hub. Its most iconic landmark, the Citadelle with its star shaped design is an arresting edifice while the Chateau Frontenac is a mesmerizing vision of Victorian grandeur. The Upper Town is also one of the sites of the Carnaval de Quebec, considered to be among the largest winter festivals on the globe. The Lower Town, at the base of the mount, is the livelier of the two with a bustling market and vibrant Old Port. Amid hundreds of historic buildings, tourist attractions, pubs and restaurants lie dozens of boutiques, galleries, souvenir shops and other distinctive establishments. The Church of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires is another of Old Québec's many treasures.
Previously known as Village des Hurons, Wendake is a major tourist attraction and a historic site which discusses the existence and history of the Huron-Wendate community in Canada. Located just minutes away from downtown Quebec City, the history of this place dates back to the 16th Century. The site also has a museum to explain in detail the culture of the community. Guided tours are available. Check their website to know more.
Les Productions Recto-Verso is an association which represents various artists from a variety of disciplines. These artists have dedicated themselves in the research and production of distinct categories of arts. They organize events which are then propagated through multi-months events. The schedule of future events is available on their official website.
The imposing spire of this magnificent Neo-Gothic edifice is one of the most recognizable in the old city. Built in the 1850s, Chalmers-Wesley United Church is an extremely well-preserved monument, with stellar architectural details and original features. As you step-in, the stained glass windows from the late 19 Century will take your breath away. The sanctuary, with its original woodwork itself is worth admiring. Besides worship services, the church is actively involved in music and hosts a very popular Summer Concert Series. Check website for more.
Built in 1817, Chapelle des Jésuites is one of the earliest places of worship in the old city. Right from the eye-catching steeple to the stellar architectural features inside, the original features of the church have been well-preserved. Designed by renowned architect, Francois Baillarge, the church features notable works of historic art including the striking stained-glass windows as well as statues. The church provides reading material for those keen to know more about its history and features, and also offers guided tours. Call for more information.
Nestled in the heart of Vieux-Quebec, this gallery is committed to showcasing the works of esteemed Parisian painter, Alain Lacaze. Born and brought up in France, Alain Lacaze achieved his certification from the renowned École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Following a successful tenure in France he relocated to Quebec and established this gallery in 1980. Visitors can peruse magnificent oil paintings, watercolor works and etchings by Lacaze. If something catches your fancy, you can even purchase it.