Quebec

The historic upper town, enclosed by stone ramparts and dominated by the towering Château Frontenac. It feels like a living museum, filled with 17th-century architecture, stone plazas, and horse-drawn carriages.

Where to stayHistoric luxury hotels and traditional bed-and-breakfasts set in centuries-old buildings.

• The Dufferin Terrace boardwalk for panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River.
• The historic ramparts and the Saint-Jean Gate.
• The Plains of Abraham, a massive urban park on a former battlefield.

The lower town, situated at the foot of Cap Diamant. It features narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses with colorful shutters, and the historic Place Royale.

Where to stayHigh-end boutique hotels housed in restored maritime warehouses.

• Place Royale, the site of the first French settlement in North America.
• Rue du Petit-Champlain, one of the oldest commercial streets on the continent.
• The Fresque des Québécois, a massive trompe-l'œil mural depicting the city's history.

A bohemian, working-class neighborhood that has evolved into a creative hub. Centered along Rue Saint-Jean, it is lined with independent grocery stores, bakeries, and dive bars.

Where to stayQuaint guesthouses and budget-friendly apartments.

• Épicerie J.A. Moisan, founded in 1871 and known as the oldest grocery store in North America.
• The independent bookstores and vinyl shops along Rue Saint-Jean.
• St-Matthew's Cemetery, a peaceful historic graveyard turned public park.

The city's former industrial heart, now a trendy tech and design district. Centered on Rue Saint-Joseph, it features craft breweries, contemporary restaurants, and tech offices.

Where to stayModern, minimalist hotels and industrial-style lofts.

• The culinary hotspots and boutiques along Rue Saint-Joseph Est.
• The Saint-Roch Garden, a landscaped urban park with a public fountain.
• The church of Saint-Roch, the largest church building in the city.

The city's refined arts district, characterized by tree-lined avenues, grand Victorian homes, and a quiet, residential atmosphere.

Where to stayMid-range business hotels and elegant boutique properties.

• The Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec (MNBAQ).
• Avenue Cartier, lined with cafes, high-end food markets, and custom light installations.
• The Grand Théâtre de Québec, the city's premier performing arts venue.

A classic residential neighborhood laid out on a grid system, famous for its brick triplexes with external spiral staircases and leafy alleyways.

Where to stayLocal apartment rentals and quiet residential guesthouses.

• 3e Avenue, the neighborhood's main commercial artery filled with cafes and bakeries.
• Cartier-Brébeuf National Historic Site, a riverside park commemorating early explorations.
• The local public markets and community gardens.