Must See Places in Quebec, Canada
Quebec is Canada’s biggest Francophone province and the only official language of the province is French. The largest province of Canada, Quebec, along with Ontario, which is the most populous province of Canada while Quebec is the second most populous, is part of Central Canada, not geographically, but owing to the political importance the two provinces hold in Canada. Today Quebec is a cultural centre of Canada, visiting which should be a top priority for anybody who wants to witness Canada in all its authenticity.
Apart from the urban areas, Quebec has a lot more for tourists to explore, from its arctic tundra-like land and the Laurentides Mountains, which is the oldest mountain range in the world, full of ski resorts to lowland plains which are brimming with lakes, rivers, such as the famous more than a thousand kilometre long Saint Lawrence River that runs through the province, vineyards, and farms.
The province's two main cities, Montreal and Quebec City, also receive a great number of tourists year-round because they are teeming with historic places, cultural institutions, parks and other outdoorsy places. Although you do not need to be a French speaker to enjoy a visit to Quebec, the province’s French culture adds to its charm by giving it a European feel, thus setting it apart from all North American cities. If you want to visit this unique place in Canada, here is a list of the places to explore in Quebec.
Place Royale
In the historic neighbourhood of Quebec called Old Quebec are historic landmarks and buildings dating back to the 17th century. In the Lower Town district of this neighbourhood is the Place Royale, a historic cobblestoned square with buildings that can be dated back to the period between the 17th century and the 19th century. This square was the spot where Quebec City, the capital of Quebec, was founded way back in 1608. One of the most famous places to see here is the oldest stone church in North America, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, which stands right in the middle of Place Royale and was built in 1688 and has since then been rebuilt many times over and had its interior restored so that it resembles the original colonial French version more closely. The Musée de la Place-Royale is also worth a visit if you want to find out more about this historic square in Quebec.
Mount Royal Park
Mont Royal, the hill that gives the city of Montreal its name, is surrounded by a park whose original design was to make it resemble a valley around the mountain. Although the plan veered off and it never got developed into a valley, it is one of the largest open reserves or greenspaces in Montreal. The park is famous for two Belvederes, semicircle plazas set at the peak's height from where Downtown Montreal can be seen; an artificial lake known as Beaver Lake; a sculpture garden; and hiking and skiing trails as well as some gravel roads for biking. The park's foliage and forest have suffered much damage over the decades since it’s been built. Still, it has recovered and one can see it in all its glory, especially in autumn days when it’s a beautiful panorama of autumn shades.
Chutes Montmorency
Chutes Montmorency, or Montmorency Falls, is a waterfall in Quebec that’s even higher than the Niagara Falls. The water of the Falls is that of the Montmorency River, which drops down from the cliff into Saint Lawrence River. The area around the Falls is part of the Montmorency Falls Park. There is a suspension bridge over Montmorency River from where pedestrians can watch the water cascading down. You can also go near the very top of the Falls in a cable car and get a stunning view of the Falls and the surrounding area. There are also numerous trails, staircases, and picnic areas to enjoy the view of the Falls from land from different perspectives as well as to enjoy some quality time together with other people. The Falls are also famous for giving off a yellow glow during summer months due to the high concentration of iron in the waterbed.
Montreal, one of two big cities in Quebec
Canadian Museum of History
Overlooking Ottawa’s Parliament Buildings across the river, this museum is located in Gatineau, a city in Western Quebec that sits on the Ottawa River’s northern bank. The Canadian Museum of History showcases the human history of Canada and its people who come from culturally diverse backgrounds. Its exploration of Canadian human history started 20,000 years ago, ranging from the history of the First Nations in the Pacific Northwest to that of the Norse seamen, and it also explores other cultures and civilizations. The museum is also an important research institution and is of interest to historians, archaeologists, ethnologists, and those who study folk culture. But far from being just for researchers or adult laymen, the museum also houses a separate Canadian Museum for Children, meant for children 14 years and above, which is one of the most popular museums in Canada.
Forillon National Park
Located at the beginning of the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec which is situated on Saint Lawrence River’s south shore, Forillon National Park was the first ever national park to be built in Quebec. It is unique for its combination of terrains which include forests, sand dunes, limestone cliffs and mountains of the Appalachians, sea coasts, and salt marshes. Although the national park was an important effort at preservation, the park was once a hunting and fishing ground for indigenous peoples who had to leave their land when the park was built. The park is now famous for its spectacular landscape; for a lighthouse known as the Cap des Rosiers Lighthouse, which is the tallest lighthouse in Canada; and for the wide variety of wildlife found here, making it a favourite especially of birdwatchers and also whale watchers.
Old Montreal
Old Montreal stands true to its name as it is one of the most ancient neighbourhoods in Canada. Old Montreal is an important location in Quebec as it comprises the site where Montreal was 1st established in the 1600s. This location is decorated with cobblestone streets which resemble styles used in Europe. One of the most common practices, that is done by not only locals but tourists as well, is exploring the maze-like streets by simply walking or strolling on a cycle. To get a taste of what joyous and peaceful existence means, the old-fashioned boutiques and coffee shops in Old Montreal should be visited. During the day, locals and travellers like to visit the area for walking, biking or boating. During the night, this area gets lightened up by the massive herds of people who stop by to dine in some of the most detectable restaurants and cafes. Along with being an ancient-style neighbourhood, Old Montreal comprises elements from modern designs as well which makes it a melting pot of both new and old worldwide trends.
Parc Omega
Situated in the middle of Ottawa and Montreal, Parc Omega is a mind-blowing safari park that is built for champions and thrill-seekers who want to make the most of a Canadian definition of safari. On the way to this safari park, travellers love to enjoy the scenic views of the nearby lakes, rocky hills, valleys, dense forests, etc. Visitors will also get to catch a glimpse of the beautiful flora and fauna that is inhabited in the area. If you love feeding animals on your way to an adventure-packed safari park, then packing carrots is recommended. Visitors will be able to feed carrots to the deer and ibex trots that fall on the way to the Parc Omega. When planning an itinerary for Quebec with family, Parc Omega should be included as it offers a special family experience in the heart of a dazzling natural environment. This safari park is perfect for hikers as it has numerous hiking trails. Along with that, this park has many beautiful spots for picnics and sightseeing.
READ MORE:
The Rocky Mountains, or simply the Rockies, are a world-famous mountain range starting in Canada
Check your eligibility for eTA Canada Visa and apply for eTA Canada Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. British citizens, Australian citizens, French citizens, and Danish citizens can apply online for eTA Canada Visa. Should you need any help or require any clarifications you should contact our helpdesk for support and guidance.