The Dufferin Terrace is home to Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the icon of Quebec City. (Vacay.ca photo)
You know that Old Quebec is the eternal destination to learn about the city’s history, but did you know that there’s a bustling scene outside of the fortified walls? Just beyond the cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture, modern Quebec City offers a vibrant mix of contemporary culture, innovative cuisine, and dynamic entertainment.
Venture into the neighbourhoods of Saint-Roch and if you love nature, Montcalm is a must, where you’ll also find trendy cafes, eclectic boutiques, and art galleries showcasing the work of cutting-edge local artists. The lively atmosphere is complemented by street performers and seasonal festivals that bring a fresh, energetic vibe to the province’s historic charm.
If you intend to visit Québec and are unsure which sites to explore, you are in for a treat. These are some of the best places to try out in the summer:
Quebec City
The first site to visit is the provincial headquarters in Quebec City. Over half a million people call this city home, and it is one of the oldest European settlements in North America. If you decide to visit Quebec City, you can expect warm and occasionally hot summers. Getting to Quebec City is easy as you can use the Jean Lesage International Airport, just 13 kilometers from the city center.
Enjoy a leisurely meal at a riverside restaurant with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, or sample craft beers at a local brewery. The blend of old and new makes Quebec City a destination where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously, offering visitors a well-rounded experience that goes beyond the iconic landmarks.
If you are a history fan, make sure you visit Petit Champlain, which is known for its old buildings and structures. Also, visit the Plains of Abraham and Notre Dame Basilica to see some of the country’s oldest cathedrals. There are also hundreds of hotels and diners where you can enjoy native and exotic cuisines after a long day of exploration.
Montreal
Founded as Ville-Marie, or “City of Mary”, Montreal is Quebec’s largest city. This city is named after Mount Royal and is located within the Island of Montreal. This should be your first stop if you are looking for a city with so much history and sites like Vieux-Port de Montréal (Old Montreal Port area.
For adrenaline seekers, the jet-boat tours on the St. Lawrence River are an absolute must. Feel the rush of excitement as you navigate the roaring rapids and get splashed by the powerful waves.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can also visit public parks and cafes within the city and chill as you cool down from the day’s activities while taking advantage of free internet in these cafes and even browse through online casino in Canada as you sip your cold beverage and get a chance to win real money. Montreal’s urban beaches offer a perfect escape. Bask in the sun, take a refreshing swim, and enjoy the lively beach atmosphere right in the heart of the city.
Montcalm
Montcalm is the place to visit if you love hiking, boating and all the adventure that comes with it. There are well-maintained hiking areas around Sentier Mont Larose. If you love being in the wild, the next stop should be the Montcalm Regional Park, where you can pitch a tent and enjoy nature.
You can also become lucky and come across beavers as they go around their daily business. Enjoy rides across rivers and lakes, like Lake Ouareau and St Donat de Montcalm, spread through Montcalm. There are also experienced guides to ensure you enjoy your visit.
Laurentides
Laurentides is the go-to place for those who love cycling. Even though the region is known as Laurentides, it only contains a small part of the Laurentian mountains. The area hosts over half a million people and is easily accessible from Quebec City and Montreal.
The region has over 300 cycle paths, explaining why cycling is a popular means of transport. Rent a bike and enjoy cycling Le p’tit train du Nord, a trail along a former railway line. Laurentides is a good area if you want to get away from the buzz of the city and enjoy the countryside.
Monteregie
Monteregie is an administrative part of Quebec with a population of over 1.5 million. If you are a fan of skiing, you will love the place, as you can visit Mont Rigaud. Visit Tsiionhiakwatha-Droulers Archaeological Centre if you want to learn all about the country’s history. The region hosts several towns like Vaudreuil-Dorion, Boucherville, Saint-Hyacinthe, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Brossard, Châteauguay, Longueuil, and Salaberry-de-Valleyfield.
Hiking fans will also find Montérégie delightful as they can visit Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park, which has several tracks.
Above are some of the sites and areas to visit in Quebec, regardless of whether you love history, entertainment or interacting with different cultures. Some sites are free to visit, while others charge a fee. Do some research to determine the areas that might require advance booking to avoid disappointments.
