Walking Tour of Old Quebec City

Things to Discover From The Plains of Abraham to Rue St. Jean

Jan 15, 2008

Enjoy Quebec City's highlights from the famous Chateau Frontenac to the boutiques of Rue St. Jean the best way possible: on foot.

Start on Avenue Cartier at the Boul. Rene Levesque intersection and casually stroll up this enchanting street filled with interesting boutiques and quaint bistros and cafes. If the weather’s hot, stop at the ice-cream shop on the corner of Cartier and Aberdeen – you can’t miss it in the summer as you’ll see hordes of people leaving the place with a scoop and a smile.

When you reach Grand Allee East, cross the street, turn left and walk east towards downtown. Turn up the very next side street, Avenue Briand, and continue until you reach Avenue de Bernieres. You are now at the edge of the Plains of Abraham.

To your right the park unfolds while on your left, historic and beautifully restored heritage houses line the street. Take your time to gaze at the beauty, but watch out for the ‘packages’ left on the street by horse-drawn carriages. Stick to the right and allow cyclists and roller bladers to pass you by as you wind up Avenue Georges VI.

From this vantage point you can spot the Martello Tower 1 on your right as well as the looming Concorde Hotel (the one with the revolving restaurant at the top) on your left.

Continue on to the Citadel. Daily tours occur throughout the year. In the busy summer months guided tours of this still active military base happen between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. for $10.00 or $20.00 for a family. If you plan an early morning walk, swing by at 10 a.m. and watch the changing of the guard.

Next make your way to the edge of the park and the beginning of the Promenade des Gouveneurs leading to the Terrasse-Dufferin. This gorgeous boardwalk wraps around the original city walls and lead directly to the Chateau Frontenac. Along the way you’ll overlook the St Lawrence River and hundreds of triangular white boats sailing on clear warm days.

Stroll the boardwalk while taking time to enjoy the buskers and other street performers who perform here everyday. Don’t forget to enjoy a Beavertail – a hot, truly Canadian pastry with your choice of sweet topping. A small stall sells them on the left side of the Chateau, just before the entrance to the terrace-level shops.

Circle the Chateau Frontenac and continue on to Rue de Buade. Here you’ll see plenty of unique boutiques to interest even the most casual shopper. In front you’ll see City Hall, another ancient looking building dominating the old city’s landscape. Descend Cote de la Fabrique and stroll along the shops listening to music pouring out of the various “boites a chansoniers” or small pubs featuring local talent.

Your final destination comes at the merging of Cote de la Fabrique with Rue St Jean. Rue St Jean dissects the heart of Old Québec and hundreds of tiny shops, brand name stores, souvenir shops and eateries line the cobblestoned street. Spend time wandering around this beautiful yet tiny street that is closed to automobiles in the busy summer high tourist season.

Continue up Rue St.Jean to Carre D’Youville, a small square bordered by the St. John Gate and the rounded façade of Hotel Capitole. In summer the large space in front of Palais Montcalm fills with artisans showcasing their wares and musicians serenading passers-by. In winter the whole area freezes over and becomes a romantic and enchanting skating rink.

If you happen to visit Quebec City during the chilly autumn, try the Ghost Tours of Quebec or book a room at the romantic Le Clos Saint Louis for a Valentine's Day lovers getaway. And if you plan to visit Quebec City in 2008, enjoy the many festivities celebrating the city's 400th Anniversary.

The copyright of the article Walking Tour of Old Quebec City in Quebec Travel is owned by James W. Coates. Permission to republish Walking Tour of Old Quebec City in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.