Quebec City

Québec City is capital of the Canadian province of the same name. The Old Town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and is the only fortified city in North America north of Mexico.

The narrowing of the Saint Lawrence River between the promontory of Cap-Diamant and Lévis, on the opposite bank, explains the origin of its name – an Algonquin word meaning "where the river narrows". Québec is one of the oldest European settlements in North America.

The main attractions include the Chateau Frontenac – surely the world's most photographed hotel – which dominates the skyline high above Cap Diamant, where you can stroll along Dufferin Terrace with stunning views of the lower city i.e. the Vieux-Port, Petit Champlain quarter and the Saint-Laurent River. You can also explore La Citadelle, an intact fortress that forms the centrepiece of the 4.6 kilometres of ramparts that surround the old city, or walk to the imposing National Assembly of Quebec (provincial legislature). The friendly atmosphere adds to the European feel – you'll find horse-drawn carriages, street entertainers, singers, and artists, particularly at the open-air art gallery in Rue du Trésor.

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