Old Quebec City: A UNESCO World Heritage Treasure
Discover the charm of Old Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of French-Canadian history, architecture, and culture.
Old Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the historic heart of Quebec City and the only remaining fortified city in North America north of Mexico. Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, it boasts well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and a rich French-Canadian culture.
A brief summary to Old Quebec City
- Québec City, La Cité-Limoilou, Quebec, CA
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Quebec City.
- Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets and hills of Old Quebec.
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Take a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and learn about the city's rich history.
- Explore both the Upper and Lower Towns to experience the full charm of Old Quebec.
- Check for festivals and events happening during your visit to enhance your experience.
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Getting There
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Walking
Old Quebec is best explored on foot due to its narrow, cobblestone streets. From the Gare du Palais train and bus station, walk uphill along Rue Saint-Paul. Turn left onto Rue de la Montagne, then right onto Rue des Remparts to enter the Upper Town. This walk takes approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, from the Petit-Champlain area in the Lower Town, take the Funicular to reach the Upper Town near Château Frontenac. The Funicular costs $3.50 CAD.
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Public Transport
From the Sainte-Foy area, take RTC bus route 800 or 801 towards downtown. These routes have frequent service and connect to Old Quebec. Get off at a stop near Place d'Youville or Hôtel de Ville, both within easy walking distance of the main attractions. A single fare is $3.75 CAD.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Quebec City. A taxi ride from the Sainte-Foy area to Old Quebec typically costs between $25 and $35 CAD, depending on traffic. From the Gare du Palais train station, a taxi to the heart of Old Quebec will cost approximately $7-$9 CAD.
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