Place d'Armes: The Heart of Old Québec

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Experience the history and charm of Old Québec at Place d'Armes, a central square surrounded by iconic landmarks and vibrant culture.

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Place d'Armes

Place d'Armes, a historic square in the heart of Old Québec, has been the city's central hub since the French colonial era. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Château Frontenac, it offers visitors a blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery.

A brief summary to Place d'Armes

Québec City, La Cité-Limoilou, Quebec, CA
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Monday 6 am-11 pm
Tuesday 6 am-11 pm
Wednesday 6 am-11 pm
Thursday 6 am-11 pm
Friday 6 am-11 pm
Saturday 6 am-11 pm
Sunday 6 am-11 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the square.
Take a guided tour that departs from Place d'Armes to discover the city's highlights.
Enjoy a meal at one of the sidewalk terraces on nearby Rue Sainte-Anne.
Check out the street artists and caricaturists practicing their craft on Rue Sainte-Anne.

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Getting There

Walking

Place d'Armes is centrally located in Old Québec and easily accessible on foot from most nearby attractions. From the Château Frontenac, walk north along Rue des Carrières, then turn left onto Rue Saint-Jean. Continue walking until you reach Place d'Armes. The square will be on your right, near the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral.
Public Transport

Place d'Armes is accessible by RTC bus. Several bus lines stop near Place d'Armes, including lines 11, 133, 253, 272, 290, 801, and 807. The nearest bus station is H. Hôtel-Dieu, just a short walk from the square. A single fare is CA$3.75. You can pay with exact change on the bus or purchase a day pass for CA$9.25.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Québec City. A short taxi ride from the Québec Station to Place d'Armes typically costs between CA$8 and CA$11. However, prices may be higher during peak season or bad weather.

Discover more about Place d'Armes

Place d'Armes, located in the heart of Old Québec, is more than just a square; it's a living testament to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Known as Grande Place during the French Regime, it served as a military training ground and a focal point for civic life. Today, it's a popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike.The square is surrounded by architectural gems that reflect different periods of Canadian history. The Château Frontenac, a prominent landmark, overlooks the square from the south. The Holy Trinity Cathedral, built in 1804, showcases British Palladian architecture. The square also features the Berthelot House, a neoclassical building dating back to 1732.In the center of Place d'Armes stands the Monument de la Foi, a neo-baroque fountain erected in 1915 to commemorate the arrival of the Recollet Fathers, the first French Catholic missionaries in New France. The monument features a statue of a woman holding a cross and a palm frond, symbolizing faith. Bas-relief carvings on the monument depict significant events in the history of the Recollets in Canada.Place d'Armes is a dynamic and lively space that hosts various cultural events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy street performances, relax in the shade of mature trees, and explore nearby attractions, such as the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral. The square also serves as a departure point for guided tours and motorcoach excursions.