It’s hard to go wrong seeing the sites in Quebec City, as the city speaks for itself in its picturesque streets, bustling dining scene and European flavour. Finding unique ways to see the sites, though, is worth the effort.
Riverboat Cruises on the St. Lawrence River
AML Cruises (124 rue Saint-Pierre, 1-800-563-4643) have been doing this for 36 years. You can tell by their organization and neat cruise options. Daily sailings take passengers on brunch, lunch, dinner and whale watching cruises, all with historical commentary or live entertainment and dancing.
Leaving the harbour and learning about Quebec City from the St. Lawrence River is a treat, as the interpreter is dressed as Louis Jolliet from the 17th century (and who the ship is named after). A deep relaxation is easy as the boat navigates beside the Montmorency Falls for much “ooh-ing” and “ah-ing.”
Rapid photo taking ensues as first timers marvel at the continuously flowing waterfalls (they also make a great day trip, where you can walk over them, toboggan below them and even ice climb on them in the winter- 2490 Avenue Royale, 418-663-3330).
Horse-Drawn Carriages and PediCabs
In keeping with the old world charm, horse-drawn carriages are a popular enjoyment in the upper streets of Old Town. A guide gives historical and current commentary as you slowly trot through the streets (Les Calèches du Vieux Québec, 418-683-9222, $80 CDN for 45 minutes).
A less expensive tour is the pedicabs. An energetic driver peddles his or her way along the streets in the lower part of Old Town, providing the same type of experience as the horse-drawn carriages (Tours Ludovica, 418-655-5836, $40 CDN).
Ile d’Orléans
Getting to know those who sustain Quebec City, you must take a trip to the Ile d’Orléans, about a 15-minute drive from the city centre. Here, 75% of the land is agricultural, so plan to spend the day stopping at small houses that share their delicious farmed goods.
Some highlights:
- Cassis Monna & Filles (721 chemin Royal, Saint-Pierre, 418-828-2525): A family wine cellar, boutique and restaurant focusing on black currant products.
- La Ferme d’Oc (4495 chemin Royal, Saint-Famille, 418-829-2646): Gourmet foie gras, rillettes, pâtés, confit and sauces.
- Isle de Bacchus (1071 chemin Royal, Saint-Pierre, 418-828-9562)- Red, white and rosé wines made on the premises, with a nice variety and small production.
- Poissonnerie Joseph Paquet (2705 chemin Royal, Saint-Pierre, 418-828-2670)- Flavoursome fish like eel, catfish, walleye, sturgeon and cod.
- Bilodeau Cidery (2200 chemin Royal, Saint-Pierre, 418-828-9316)- Tasty cider drinks and products like apple butter, peppered raspberry jelly and apple syrup.
- La Halte des Anges (4586 chemin Royal, Saint-Famille, 418-829-0769)- Exquisite pies are the speciality here, although she also makes delicious preserves.
Where to Stay in Quebec City
For a unique place to rest your head, here are two recommended boutique hotels that stand out:
Hôtel Champlain (1-800-567-2106): Within walking distance to the centre of Old Town, the quiet location is perfect for those looking for something different. The historic exterior hides a modern interior filled with special touches: jetted bathtubs in the corner of the living rooms, ipod-capable clock radios, free wireless, etc.
Auberge Place d’Armes (1-866-333-9485): Interior stone walls in a 200 year old building mix well with the new renovations of this former wax museum. Enjoy a multi-headed shower, free wireless and in-room fireplaces on a pedestrian street in the core.
How to Get to Quebec City
Air Canada (1-888-247-2262) and WestJet (1-888-937-8583) are the main Canadian airlines serving Quebec City. For the most relaxing trip, check into VIA Rail (1-888-842-7245).
Contact Quebec City Tourism (1-877-783-1608) for more city ideas or the Ministry of Tourism to explore the rest of the province.
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