Located near the cruise-liner terminal in the Old Port, this pretty public square affords a scenic view of the stone fortifications, Château Frontenac and historical buildings in the Petit-Champlain district.

The design of place des Canotiers is inspired by 19th-century wooden wharves. Stroll along the sidewalks crossing the square diagonally to see the works of art and climb to the top of the belvedere, from which you can look out over the river. Rest areas, ground-level water fountains, intermittent mist sprays and flagstones arranged to resemble waves create an oasis nestled between the St. Lawrence River and the historical portion of the city.

What to do at place des Canotiers?

• Climb the large staircase to the belvedere to admire the stunning view of the public square, the St. Lawrence River and Old Québec.
• Gaze down at the cruise ships that dock in Québec City between May and October.
• Cool off in the mist sprayed over the square.
• Let your children play in the ground-level water fountains while you take in the scenery.

History of place des Canotiers

This site along the St. Lawrence River was created on the bank that had been artificially expanded during the French and English Regimes. Several wharves were built on these earthen dykes. By 1928, their number had increased to 37, making Québec City North America’s third largest port after New York City and New Orleans. Today, sea freight is handled elsewhere at the Québec Port, and it is cruise liners that moor at the wharves of place des Canotiers, a convenient two-minute walk from Old Québec.