Historic District of Old Québec
Location: Quebec, Canada
Year of Inscription: 1985
Criteria: (iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Historic District of Old Québec is a well-preserved example of a fortified colonial city. It is the only remaining fortified city north of Mexico and was founded by French explorer Samuel de Champlain in the early 17th century. The district is divided into two parts: Upper Town, which sits atop a cliff overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, and Lower Town, which is located at the base of the cliff and is home to many historic buildings and landmarks.
Prominent Features: The Historic District of Old Québec is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and fortified walls. Some of the most notable features include:
History: The Historic District of Old Québec was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, a French explorer. The district was an important center of the fur trade and played a significant role in the development of Canada as a French colony. The district was later fortified to protect against invasion, and the walls and fortifications remain a prominent feature of the district to this day.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Historic District of Old Québec is a great place for families to explore and learn about Canadian history. Some family-friendly activities include:
Fun Fact: The Historic District of Old Québec is the only walled city in North America.
Entry Fees: There are no entry fees to explore the Historic District of Old Québec, but some museums and attractions may have admission fees.
How to reach it: The district is easily accessible by public transport, with bus and train stations located nearby. There is also a ferry that runs between Old Québec and Lévis, a city located across the Saint Lawrence River.
There are several options for transportation from Montreal to Quebec City:
Where to Stay: There are many hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts located in the Historic District of Old Québec, as well as in nearby neighborhoods such as Saint-Roch and Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Some popular options include Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Hotel Manoir Victoria, and Auberge Saint-Antoine.
Next Stop: Rideau Canal
Year of Inscription: 1985
Criteria: (iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Historic District of Old Québec is a well-preserved example of a fortified colonial city. It is the only remaining fortified city north of Mexico and was founded by French explorer Samuel de Champlain in the early 17th century. The district is divided into two parts: Upper Town, which sits atop a cliff overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, and Lower Town, which is located at the base of the cliff and is home to many historic buildings and landmarks.
Prominent Features: The Historic District of Old Québec is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and fortified walls. Some of the most notable features include:
- Château Frontenac: A grand hotel that was built in the late 19th century and is now a National Historic Site of Canada.
- Citadelle of Québec: A fortress that was built in the 19th century to protect the city from invasion.
- Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral: A historic church that dates back to the early 17th century and is a National Historic Site of Canada.
History: The Historic District of Old Québec was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, a French explorer. The district was an important center of the fur trade and played a significant role in the development of Canada as a French colony. The district was later fortified to protect against invasion, and the walls and fortifications remain a prominent feature of the district to this day.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Historic District of Old Québec is a great place for families to explore and learn about Canadian history. Some family-friendly activities include:
- Musée de la Civilisation: A museum that focuses on the history and culture of Quebec.
- Observatoire de la Capitale: An observation deck that offers stunning views of the city. Plains of Abraham: A historic park that was the site of a pivotal battle in Canadian history.
Fun Fact: The Historic District of Old Québec is the only walled city in North America.
Entry Fees: There are no entry fees to explore the Historic District of Old Québec, but some museums and attractions may have admission fees.
- Château Frontenac: As a hotel, there is no entrance fee to visit the Château Frontenac, but some of its restaurants and bars may have a minimum spend or reservation fee.
- Citadelle of Quebec: The entry fee to the Citadelle of Quebec varies depending on the type of ticket you purchase. As of 2023, the rates are:
- Adults: $18.75 CAD
- Seniors (65+): $16.75 CAD
- Students (18+ with valid ID): $11.75 CAD
- Children (6-17): $9.50 CAD
- Children under 6: Free
- Quebec City Fortifications: There is no entrance fee to walk along the city walls and gates, but there may be fees for guided tours.
- Place Royale: There is no entrance fee to visit Place Royale, but some of its museums may have fees.
- Museums: There are several museums within the Historic District, and entry fees may vary. Some examples include:
- Musée de la Civilisation: $17 CAD for adults, $15 CAD for seniors and students, and $7 CAD for children.
- Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec: $20 CAD for adults, $18 CAD for seniors, and $10 CAD for students and youth (18-30).
- Ursulines Museum: $6 CAD for adults, $5 CAD for seniors, and $4 CAD for students and children.
How to reach it: The district is easily accessible by public transport, with bus and train stations located nearby. There is also a ferry that runs between Old Québec and Lévis, a city located across the Saint Lawrence River.
There are several options for transportation from Montreal to Quebec City:
- Bus: Several bus companies operate between Montreal and Quebec City, including Greyhound, Orléans Express, and Megabus. Buses depart from the Montreal Bus Terminal and arrive at the Quebec City Bus Terminal. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic and the specific route taken.
- Train: VIA Rail operates trains between Montreal and Quebec City. Trains depart from Montreal's Central Station and arrive at Quebec City's Gare du Palais. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, depending on the specific train and route taken.
- Car : There are several car rental companies located in Montreal that offer rentals for the drive to Quebec City. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific route taken.
Where to Stay: There are many hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts located in the Historic District of Old Québec, as well as in nearby neighborhoods such as Saint-Roch and Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Some popular options include Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Hotel Manoir Victoria, and Auberge Saint-Antoine.
Next Stop: Rideau Canal