Old Québec

Vue aérienne sur Québec en hiver
Jeff Frenette

Bask in the European charm of this UNESCO World Heritage treasure as you stroll and take in over 400 years of history in the birthplace of French North America.

Slip on some comfortable shoes and follow your own path through the only fortified city north of Mexico. Take a walking tour to discover its rich history. Expect an awe‑inspiring journey through a collection of architectural treasures unlike anything outside Europe. Get ready to travel back in time.

Where Is Old Québec

Carte du vieux Quebec

What Is Old Québec

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Old Québec is the most intact fortified town north of Mexico, retaining its colonial architecture for over 400 years. It is the historic and cultural heart of Québec City, and the birthplace of French North America. Not just a tourist area, this lively neighbourhood is also home to many proud residents.

Wander through Petit-Champlain, one of the oldest shopping streets in North America, and discover the historic gems found inside the walls, including the fortified walls and ramparts. Explore the shops and marina of Old Port, and soak in the atmosphere of the Plains of Abraham and Parliament Hill.

Video Old Québec City

View of the Château Frontenac and avenue Saint-Denis at sunrise, from the Pierre-Dugua-De Mons terrace.
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Discover the historical and cultural richness of Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure and the only walled city north of Mexico.

Old Québec Areas

  • Colline parlementaire vue aérienne
    Parliament Hill & Plains of Abraham

    Dominated by the Parliament Building, the Parliament Hill gives access to Grande Allée. Explore this area that exudes style and elegance.

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  • Saint-Jean Gate illuminated in the early evening, with the Hotel Palace Royal in the background.
    Inside Québec City’s Walls

    Discover the top things to do inside Québec City's walls, the fortified area where the famous Château Frontenac and the Citadelle are located.

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  • Tourists walk on rue du Petit-Champlain in summer.
    Petit-Champlain

    Discover the top things to do in Petit-Champlain, a fairytale area known for its cobblestone streets, European architecture, and great shopping.

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  • Vue sur la marina du Vieux-Port de Québec
    Old Port

    Discover the best spots to enjoy a perfect day of antique stores, art galleries, and restaurants in the streets that surround Québec City's Old Port.

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Old Québec Must-See Attractions

Ice rink

10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City

Discover the 10 best things to do and see in Old Québec. A stay is not complete without visiting these must-see attractions.

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Three friends are snowshoeing on the snow-capped Plains of Abraham and heading towards the historic Martello Tower.

How to Embrace Responsible Travel in Old Québec

Want to see this gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site for yourself while minimizing your carbon footprint? Here are some tips for embracing responsible

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Events in Old Québec

  • Biosphere
    Marché allemand place d'Youville

    Québec City German Christmas Market

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  • Kaleidoscopes

    Kaléidoscopes

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  • Festivaliers pour Toboggan

    New Year's Eve in Québec City

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  • Biosphere
    Bonhomme Carnaval is photographed on the exterior bridge of the Québec-Lévis Ferry, in winter.

    Québec Winter Carnival

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  • Titanic en mer

    Titanic, The Exhibition

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  • Biosphere
    Festival d'été de Québec

    Festival d'été de Québec

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  • Gens costumés aux Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France

    New France Festival

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  • Ligne d'arrivée du Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec

    Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec

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Local Tips about Old Québec

  • A couple raise their glasses and eat on the terrace of a restaurant on rue Saint-Jean, in summer.
    3 Romantic Activities in Old Québec
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  • Statues de la Fontaine de Tourny
    9 Monuments and Statues in Old Québec
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  • Musical performance at the Citadelle of Québec.
    15 Sites Witness to our British and Irish Heritage
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  • Vue de l'avenue Saint-Denis et de ses maisons patrimoniales avec le Château Frontenac en arrière-plan.
    The 15 Prettiest Streets in Old Québec
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  • Spectacle extérieur pour le Nouvel An
    5 Reasons to Celebrate New Year’s in Québec City
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  • Quartier Petit Champlain
    Step Into Historic Petit-Champlain Street, a Living Christmas Card
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  • Three friends are snowshoeing on the snow-capped Plains of Abraham and heading towards the historic Martello Tower.
    A Winter Blast Where North America's Fate Was Sealed
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  • People walk in the evening on rue du Petit-Champlain, covered with snow and decorated with many illuminated trees.

    6 Magical Spots to Enjoy Québec City’s Christmas Lights

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