Discover more than 400 years of history in the cradle of French civilization in North America. Old Québec is famous for its European charm and well-preserved architectural treasures. The entire district, which is best explored on foot, is a living history book, and every garden, building and street corner is its own chapter. Explore this only fortified city north of Mexico.

Here are some of Quebec City’s must-see historic attractions:

Old Québec (pictured), a UNESCO World Heritage Site

History is everywhere in Old Québec—down every street, at every monument and inside every historical building. The eminently walkable fortified city has a unique European feel and is extraordinarily well preserved after 400 years. You’ll love the look and charm of its lovely neighbourhoods and architecture.

The Founding Nations Heritage

Québec City is marked by the history of a people unique in North America, strong and proud of its Aboriginal and European ancestry. Come meet First Nations people who are proud of their origins and witnesses to the history that shaped our country. Many buildings and remains also testify to the legacy and the founding of New France as well as the period when it came under British rule after many battles. You’ll see the influence of both nations in various important sites that are now attractions open to the public.

The National Historic Sites of Canada

Explore the Fortifications of Québec, which span close to 4.6 kilometres around Old Québec. They’re one of a kind this side of Mexico. Then wander over to Artillery Park, where characters in period costume will welcome you to defensive buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Take in the history of a site where decisions that affected all of North America were made at Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux, an archaeological crypt revealed beneath the Dufferin Terrace. And round off your trip by learning all about Jacques Cartier’s first winter in Québec City in 1535 and the history of the Jesuits at Cartier-Brébeuf Park.

Parliament Building

Get to know the men and women who have left their mark on Québec’s political history. The imposing facade of the Parliament Building bears 26 bronze statues that pay them tribute. Come inside and look around this impressive building built between 1786 and 1886. The National Assembly Chamber, home to Québec’s parliamentarians, the Legislative Council Room, the Speakers’ Gallery, and the renowned restaurant Le Parlementaire are also worth a visit.

The Tourist Routes

Admire heritage homes, mills, and churches along the New France Route, one of the oldest thoroughfares in all of North America. Or explore Chemin du Roy in the Portneuf region. Built in 1737, it was the first highway between Québec City and Montréal.

Here is a list of cruise ships with sailings from/to to Québec City in 2019-2020.

Crystal Cruises
SYMPHONY

Cunard Line
QUEEN MARY 2

Holland America Line
ZUIDERDAM

Norwegian Cruise Line
NORWEGIAN DAWN
NORWEGIAN GEM

Pearl Seas Cruises
PEARL MIST

Ponant
LE SOLEAL

Princess Cruises
CARIBBEAN PRINCESS

Royal Caribbean International
ADVENTURE OF THE SEAS

Quebec City Tourism, www.quebecregion.com