The capital of Quebec province, Quebec City, is one of Canada’s most charming and picturesque cities, offering a wealth of architectural gems and natural beauty. Its population is composed of 95 percent French-speaking residents, adding a unique cultural element to the city and increasing its appeal as a visitor destination.
The only walled city north of Mexico is also noted for being one of Canada’s most visited cities, and tourists are seldom inhibited by the language barrier. Historic old buildings and fascinating museums can be enjoyed by all visitors, regardless of their ability to speak French. The city’s surrounding natural beauty can also be appreciated and is one of its greatest draws.
Family visitors with little ones in tow will find plenty to keep themselves occupied. Besides typical modern day facilities such as movie theatres, arcades and swimming pools, the city offers big attractions such as the Parc Aquarium du Quebec. Family fun can also be found on the slopes of the city’s winter sport resorts during the snowy season.
Outdoor types will also be drawn by the allure of pursuits such as skiing, snowboarding and dog sledding, while endless hiking possibilities will appeal to those seeking something physically challenging during recreation time in warmer periods.
With heavy French influences in the local cuisine, the city’s restaurants offer some tasty treats and few who experience dining in Quebec are disappointed by the high standard of food available. The choice of venues extends to international ones also, ensuring all tastes are catered for.
Quebec receives plenty of visitors throughout the year and caters well to their needs with a modern tourist infrastructure. Accommodation options are plentiful and include big names such as Hilton, Clarion and Best Western, as well as a wealth of smaller establishments including cheap hotels and bed and breakfasts. Booking online ahead of time is essential as Quebec sees visitors year round.
Quebec City has its own airport, making it easy to reach the city if arriving from overseas or from the US. Once in the city, a comprehensive public bus network makes getting around easy. For visitors planning on doing a lot of travelling during their stay, a hire car is an economical and convenient means of getting around.
Quebec’s climate leans towards the cool side with cold and damp weather being prevalent. The summer brings some respite with agreeable temperatures, but it’s a short-lived season. Spring and autumn are mild to cool in the daytime and cold at night and in early mornings.
When you visit Quebec City depends on what kind of holiday you are looking for. Winter sports holidays can be enjoyed any time between November and April, with the snowfall reliable during this period and temperatures dipping well below 0° C.
June and July are the best of the summer months and bring the warmest temperatures, with the mercury reaching highs of around 25°C. The autumn months (September and October) are cool, but the skies are blue and the views punctuated with the vibrant colours of the maple trees, making for a richly aesthetic experience.
