If not on your travel “bucket list,” do add Quebec. It’s a beautiful magical city to walk about and explore. It is France in North America with superb cuisine, lovely people and beautiful scenery. While French is the official language, Quebec is delightfully bi-lingual.
I loved the morning half day walking tour, commencing in the Upper Town. It covered the historic center, pedestrian only streets and ended at the base of the Old Quebec Funicular in the Lower Town. The guide loved his city and the small group I was part of also came to know and appreciate it.
At the conclusion of the tour, I had a fabulous lunch close to the river and was all set to take the funicular back to the Upper Town. But, while it had been working earlier, it was closed for maintenance. So, rather than walking back up the hill, I opted for the stairs. Another time, I did take the hill. Either way, it is great exercise!
The Red hop on –hop off Bus is the best way to tour the city. I purchased a two day pass and used it extensively. There are 12 stops, including newer areas of the city, the Art Museum, and parks. A favorite park is the beautiful Jeanne d’Arc Garden with its classical French and English flower-garden styles.
The Red Bus starts and ends near Le Chateau Frontenac which dominates the Quebec skyline. There is a marvelous walkway in front of the hotel overlooking the St. Lawrence River and the Lower Town.
Rather than renting a car, I opted to take a few tours outside of the city, including a cruise on the St. Lawrence River which passed Montmorency Falls. I also took a ½ day coach tour to the Falls which is a beautiful area to walk about.
My favorite restaurants include:
- Portofino Bistro, which has incredible Italian food (Spaghetti Carbonara is magnifique!), great service, very good wine list; a marvelous European atmosphere. https://portofino.ca/quebec/en/home/
- Pub St. Patrick, a fun place, very good food and service (Onion Soup delicious) https://www.facebook.com/PubStPatrick/
- Tournebroche Bistro, a fabulous casual French place, excellent service and a very good wine list; perfect spot for lunch or dinner; if weather permits, opt to sit outside; try the Quebec Pudding for dessert https://tournebroche.com/en
- In Lower Town, I liked Cochon Dingue Champlain, where I had a terrific lunch; sit outside, weather permitting http://www.cochondingue.com/#/english
Quebec has a marvelous European feel which I immediately noticed as I walked about. I think it’s partially due to the architecture but also the ambiance. Also, eating at several of the restaurants, I felt as if I were in Italy or France, rather than North America. I have many great memories of my journey to Quebec and am planning my next visit to this fascinating area.
Travel well and often.
Photos below plus additional photos at the link: Quebec ~ Photos …
Journeys with Eileen Diane 