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Walking through the pleasant, cobblestone streets of the old, historic center, stopping for a croissant and coffee, and breathing in the fresh crisp air: you must be in Quebec City. Known for its beautiful and historic elegance, this old city is far from ordinary. Considered the little France of North America, many people here speak a Canadian version of French, rather than English (as the rest of Canada does). The entire province of Quebec is unique in that way. Settled by Europeans in 1608, last year marked its official 400th birthday. And what an incredible 500 years it has been. From shopping and delicious cuisine to theaters and operas, Quebec City is calling. Located only a few hours from the United State’s border, it is a perfect get-a-way for any college student looking to have some fun.

Quebec City Pictures

Things to do in Quebec City

Old Town is the main highlight of Quebec City. In general, Quebec City does not boast a whole lot of touristy things to do, however this section of the city is oozing with tourism and fun. Chateau Frontenac claims to be the most photographed hotel in North America, and it is absolutely stunning. Many tourists enjoy walking through the lobby and browsing the luxurious shops. If you can afford to stay here, do it–it is breathtaking. Although many college students can’t really afford this, you can at least stop in for a drink at the swanky bar downstairs. The Citadel holds a changing of the guard ceremony every morning at 10:00 am. This is where the old City Wall meets up with Grand Allée. Plains of Abraham Battlefield Park was where the British conquered Quebec in 1759. Now a days it is a pretty park with leisurely events and sporting events. The Observatoire de la Capitale is the tallest building in Quebec City. And for $5 you can go up to the observation level and look out onto the whole city. Place-Royale is a very historic and not to be missed site. This is where Samuel de Champlain landed in 1608 and founded the first French settlement in North America. There is a mural covering the side of the wall of a building in the square. The square itself is quite beautiful to see. While in Quebec, it’d be fun to take a horse drawn carriage ride around the city and take in the sites that way. See the Choco-musee Erico, a chocolate museum. Or go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on Plains of Abraham. It is free of charge and offers an incredible view of the St. Lawrence River.

Nightlife in Quebec City

The nightlife in Quebec City is that of any other major city: very exciting. You will be able to hear music pouring onto the streets from any major club Thursday through Sunday. If clubbing isn’t really your scene, then browse the streets of Old Town. On weekend nights, especially in the summer, there are street events held with music and laughter. Visitors can enjoy the displays of street performers and peddlers. Many restaurants in the area also set up outdoor seating so you can enjoy the weather while you dine. Or maybe just a nice glass of wine. The drinking age in Quebec City is 18 and is strongly enforced. Be sure to have an ID or passport on you at all times when going out at night. If you don’t you most likely will not get served. The Grande Allée has most of the city’s clubs and draws in a youthful crowd. Many college students who visit come up for weekends or spring breaks. Enjoy Le Dagobert, Quebec’s oldest club; L’Ozone, which serves $5 pints; St. Patrick, an awesome multi level indoor bar with an outdoor terrace; and La Ninkasi, which has the largest selection of Quebec beers.

Dining in Quebec City

Dining in Quebec City is quite enjoyable, as they make an art of the activity. For these sudo-French, eating is something that should be slowed down and enjoyed with friends. Paring of foods and wines are important as they bring out the best flavors in both. Here you can enjoy a mixture of French cuisine and Canadian food, and other global foods as well. It is a perfect place to spend a few hours dining with those you love. In the Old City, menus will be posted on the outside of restaurants both in English and French. A table d’hote is a special fixed price menu that includes all the courses for the meal. Poutine is a French Canadian favorite and is served as both a side dish and a main course. This Quebec special is served as a heap of french fries or mashed potatoes, piled with cheese curds, and then doused with gravy. It is a delicious, stick to the bones kind of dish that can’t be missed. Cafes are usually the way most college kids go when looking for inexpensive eats. Because this city is so unique and touristy the prices for food are considerably high. To get a decent meal, many cafes offer lighter menus or sometimes even buffets served with drinks. The Champlain and Chateau area are good places to look. If you are willing to spend a little extra check out Cochon Dingue (known for their large portions), Moine Échanson where you will spend an average of $15, and Aux Anciens Canadiens. For breakfast or a snack try Casse-Crepe Breton, with their excellent crepe selections.

Shopping in Quebec City

Basse-Ville is probably your best bet for shopping in Quebec City. Although there is a lot of street and window shopping available in most sections of the city, this is where you will be able to actually afford something. You will also find here the touristy shops with souvenirs and various other nick-knacks. Leather goods and homemade crafts are pretty popular here. Also the French goods that are brought here or produced by locals are worth taking a look at. Place Laurier, Place de la Cité, Place Ste-Foy are the three shopping malls in the city and are all right next to each other. The shopping here is phenomenal and in fact Place Laurier is the largest shopping mall in Eastern Canada. So plan to spend quite some time here going from store to store.

Quebec City travel tips

• Learn a few phrases in French before you go to help get around.
• ZAP Quebec offers free wireless hubs and internet cafes around the city.
• Quebec City is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone.