Quebec City, the capital of the province of Quebec, mixes old world attractions and contemporary activities, in a wonderful blend of culture, language and beauty.  

Quebec City is divided into two different districts: Haute- Ville or the Upper City, and Basse-Ville or the Lower part of the city, which is close to the port. Quebec City is over 400 years old, and is not only charming, but also quaint and offers visitors a variety of activities to partake in, both in the winter and summer months. 

In Basse-Ville, there are a variety of sidewalk cafés, plenty of shopping and a variety of art galleries and museums to visit. The 400-year-old Place Royale is considered the birthplace of French Canada and its narrow streets remind one of Europe.  Make sure to visit the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and the Maison Chevalier. The Church was built in the 1700’s and was designated as the “ church of the Irish” by the Bishop of Quebec in 1824. The Maison Chevalier was built in 1752 for ship owner Jean-Baptiste Chevalier and is now a museum, which offers a view of domestic life in the 17^th century. For a beautiful view of the city from the river, try one of the Famille Dufour cruise excursions. For the adventurous type, go whale watching on a zodiac boat! 

For a great panoramic view of the Saint Lawrence River and the lower portion of Quebec City, take the funicular- an inclined cable railway that transports you 195 feet above the city at a 45-degree angle! Begun in 1879, and completely rebuilt in 1997, the enclosed funicular takes you between the Louis-Jolliet House in Basse-Ville and the Dufferin Terrace station in Haute-Ville. If you are up to it, try climbing the “ Break-Neck” Staircase between these two destinations, not for the faint of heart! 

Quebec City’s “ upper town” has an appeal of its own, and a distinct urban feel to it. Rue St. Jean is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of pubs, restaurants and sidewalk cafes offering refuge to fatigued feet. For art-lovers, the Rue de Tresor is an alleyway brimming with artists displaying and selling their work. It is a great place to buy arts and crafts and handmade souvenirs. 

Whether you are enjoying the view from the historic Fairmont Chateau Frontenac, or staying at the Ice Hotel just outside the city, Quebec City combines style, charm and warmth for an experience you are sure to remember fondly.