25 Facts about Quebec City You Need to Know

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Quebec City, the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec, is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its stunning Old World architecture to its vibrant music and arts scene, Quebec City is a destination that truly has something for everyone. But beyond the well-known tourist attractions lies a wealth of fascinating and fun facts that many visitors may not be aware of. In this blog post, we’ll explore 25 of the most interesting and surprising fun facts about Quebec City, giving you a glimpse into the city’s unique character and heritage. Whether you’re planning a trip to Quebec City or simply want to learn more about this fascinating city, these fun facts are sure to delight and inform. So let’s dive in and discover the quirky and charming side of Quebec City!

25 Facts You May Not Know About Quebec City

  1. Quebec City is the capital city of the province of Quebec in Canada.
  2. It was founded in 1608 by French explorer Samuel de Champlain, making it one of the oldest cities in North America.
  3. Quebec City is the only walled city in North America north of Mexico, and it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  4. The city is home to the famous Chateau Frontenac hotel, which is one of the most photographed hotels in the world.
  5. Quebec City has two official languages: French and English.
  6. The city’s Winter Carnival is one of the largest winter festivals in the world, featuring ice sculptures, parades, and outdoor activities.
  7. Quebec City is known for its unique architecture, which combines European and North American styles.
  8. The city has more than 37 museums and galleries, including the Musee de la Civilisation and the Musee National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec.
  9. The city’s Old Town is the only fortified city north of Mexico, with its walls and gates still standing today.
  10. Quebec City’s famous Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre Basilica is one of the world’s most famous pilgrimage sites, attracting millions of visitors every year.
  11. The city has been named one of the world’s most beautiful cities by several publications, including Travel + Leisure and National Geographic.
  12. Quebec City is the second-largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris.
  13. The city’s Plains of Abraham is a historic battlefield that was the site of a major battle between the French and British in 1759.
  14. The city’s official flag features a white cross on a blue background, which is a symbol of the city’s French Catholic heritage.
  15. Quebec City has a vibrant arts scene, with several theaters and music venues, including the Grand Theatre de Quebec and the Festival d’ete de Quebec.
  16. The city has several popular parks and outdoor spaces, including the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency and the Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge.
  17. Quebec City’s famous ice hotel, the Hotel de Glace, is made entirely of ice and snow and is rebuilt every year.
  18. The city has a unique culinary scene, with many restaurants serving traditional Quebecois dishes, including poutine and tourtiere.
  19. Quebec City has a large and vibrant LGBTQ+ community, with several LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and events throughout the city.
  20. The city’s Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church is the oldest stone church in North America, dating back to 1688.
  21. Quebec City is located at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence and Saint Charles rivers, making it an important port city.
  22. The city’s Observatoire de la Capitale offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding area from the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building.
  23. Quebec City is known for its friendly locals, who are known for their hospitality and love of food and drink.
  24. The city has several historic landmarks, including the Quebec Citadel and the Quebec Seminary.
  25. Quebec City’s famous Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebec is a funicular railway that connects the upper and lower parts of the city, offering stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River.

About Quebec City

Quebec is a province in eastern Canada, located between Ontario to the west and Newfoundland and Labrador to the east. Quebec is the largest province in Canada by area and the second-largest by population, with over 8 million people calling it home. The official language of Quebec is French, and the province is known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

The history of Quebec dates back to the 16th century, when French explorer Jacques Cartier first arrived in the area in 1534. In 1608, Samuel de Champlain founded the city of Quebec, which became the capital of New France. Over the years, Quebec developed into a major trading hub and played a key role in the fur trade, the French and Indian War, and the American Revolution.

Today, Quebec is a vibrant and diverse province that is known for its unique culture, cuisine, and lifestyle. Quebec is home to several major cities, including Montreal, Quebec City, and Gatineau, as well as a variety of small towns and rural communities. The province is also home to several popular tourist destinations, including the Mont Tremblant ski resort, the Charlevoix region, and the Gaspesie Peninsula.

Quebec is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional Quebecois music, dance, and cuisine. Quebec is also home to several major festivals and events, including the Quebec Winter Carnival, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival. The province’s natural beauty is also a major draw for tourists, with attractions such as the Laurentian Mountains, the Saguenay Fjord, and the Gaspe Peninsula attracting visitors from around the world.

Overall, Quebec is a unique and vibrant province that offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions for visitors and residents alike. From its rich history to its diverse culture and stunning natural landscapes, Quebec is a place that truly has something for everyone.

Are you planning a weekend getaway to Quebec City?

Here are 8 ideas to do in Quebec City:

  1. Visit the Château Frontenac, a historic hotel located in Old Quebec that is a must-see landmark in the city.
  2. Explore the narrow streets and charming architecture of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  3. Visit the Musée de la Civilisation, a museum that showcases the history and culture of Quebec.
  4. Take a stroll along the Terrasse Dufferin, a promenade located along the St. Lawrence River that offers stunning views of the city and river.
  5. Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Québec, a beautiful cathedral located in Old Quebec.
  6. Visit the Place Royale, a historic square located in Old Quebec that was the site of the first French settlement in the city.
  7. Visit the Jardin botanique de Québec, a beautiful botanical garden located in the city.
  8. Take a walk along the Plains of Abraham, a park located in the heart of the city that offers beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding area.

Bonus tip: Self-guided walking tour

Another budget friendly option to explore Quebec City is to do a self-guided walking tour and scavenger hunt.

The tour is designed for all ages, it’s an interactive and engaging way to discover the history, culture, and hidden gems of Quebec City. You’ll learn fascinating facts about the city, solve riddles, and most importantly, have lots of fun! This tour is perfect for families, friends, and solo travelers who want to explore the city in a unique and exciting way.

As you follow the tour, you’ll explore the highlights of Quebec City. You’ll discover some of the neighborhood’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Monument à Champlain, Petit-Champlain and the Place Royale.

But the tour is not only about sightseeing, as you wander through the streets, you’ll be solving riddles and answering questions that will lead you to discover hidden gems.

The tour is self-guided, so you can start and finish it at your own pace, you can also take as many breaks as you like. The tour is designed to be completed in around 2 hours, but you can take as long as you like to finish it.


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