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Why
Old Quebec City
is special
Old Quebec City's narrow cobble-stoned streets lined with shops and restaurants
give it character. So does its long history.
Tips & insights
on Old Quebec
 Old
Quebec City has two sections, the aptly named Upper Town and Lower Town. A steep
bluff separates the two.
They
are connected by inclined streets and steps that have been known to tax the
energy of some tourists. Fortunately, there is a funicular.
Most
tourism attractions are in the Upper Town. This includes the famous
castle-inspired Chateau Frontenac hotel (see photo), the icon of Quebec. It
dates back to the late 19th century and commands the skyline.
Other
Upper Town allures include the star-shaped Citadel and the winding streets
flanked by old buildings bursting with interesting small retail and atmospheric
dining establishments, some with outdoor tables.
Lower
Town has trendier stores, restaurants and boutique hotels, but maintains a
traditional Quebec facade.
The
Winter Carnival is the premier festival of Quebec. This active 17-day event
features ice sculpting contests, parades, fireworks, canoe and dog sled races,
and a large ice palace is built each year for the occasion.
History
in brief: The French settled Quebec in 1608. In 1759, they lost a battle for
Quebec to the British. The latter then governed it until 1867 when Canada became
an independent country.
Despite
over 100 years of British sovereignty, Quebec has remained predominantly French
in spirit, culture, cuisine, and language.
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