Quebec is one of the most vibrant and exhilarating provinces in Canada. The only primarily French-speaking area of the country, it is also noted for its multicultural policies, its commitment to inclusivity, and its welcoming atmosphere.
No visit to the province can be complete without a tour of Quebec City, its capital, and one of the oldest European settlements in North America. True to its ancient character, its center boasts an old-world elegance that is unparalleled on the continent. As a result, it is often a magnet for tourists from across North America and Europe.
However, Quebec City’s attractions don’t end with its architectural evocations of Europe, as many tourists might seem to think. Rather, the provincial capital is dotted with neighborhoods that have their own distinct character and are well placed to send Quebec City travelers home with memories worth treasuring.
What are the best neighborhoods in Quebec City?
The experience of visiting Quebec City is an immersion into cultures, aesthetics, food, and adventures that can stimulate the mind like no other. In order to give you a better idea of what each neighborhood offers, here is a list of the best neighborhoods to explore in Quebec City.
Old Quebec
Every tour of Quebec City must begin with Old Quebec. A UNESCO world heritage site, it offers the eyes, a panorama of history and beauty. Whether you are interested in the old architecture that decorates the old streets of this part of town, or simply want to experience the city’s essence, Old Quebec is a must-visit neighborhood.
One of the most impressive aspects of Old Quebec is the fact that it encompasses fortifications stretching across 2.6 miles. As the only fortified city North of Mexico, it offers sightseeing opportunities that are unique across North America.
Built like a maze and lined with narrow old streets and vintage architecture, Old Quebec will make you feel as though you have been transported to another time and place. Amidst the tradition there is modernity in the form of trendy restaurants and unique bars that will leave you with lifelong holiday memories.
Saint-Sauveur
Saint-Sauveur, or Saint-Sô as the locals like to call it, is a working class neighborhood that welcomes families and young entrepreneurs alike. It is a great area to go walk around if you wanna enjoy a genuine community spirit and escape the busy streets of downtown Quebec City. It’s a homely neighborhood that exudes a tangible sense of intimacy and warmth to the extent that you are practically guaranteed a smile by every person you pass.
If you go to this neighborhood, make sure to stroll on rue Saint-Vallier Ouest where you’ll find cozy cafes, delicious bakeries and hip bars. During the summer you can do your grocery shopping and buy gourmet products at the public market located in Durocher park. Residents also organize regular events that you can partake in if you want to mingle with the locals. The restaurants and shops highlight the neighborhood’s small-town feel, as many of them are independently run.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Saint Jean Baptiste is a Quebec City neighborhood that is quite unlike the rest. Considered by many to be the bohemian part of town, it is filled with quirky intricacies that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. It is distinguished by the rows of colorful houses that line the streets off Saint Jean street. If you are an amateur or professional photographer, this is the place for you.
Perfect for daytime as well as night-time visits, Saint Jean Baptiste remains colorful 24/7. While the houses and architecture can keep you busy during the day, the neighborhood comes alive at night when its bars, restaurants, and pubs fill up with patrons seeking a slice of its unique exuberance and energy.
Saint-Roch
Saint Roch is a hub for all things trendy. Often compared to the more fashionable boroughs of New York, it is a young person’s paradise. Drawing in students and young working professionals from across the globe, Saint Roch has a palpable energy to it; the energy of youthful vitality that runs through its streets.
From hip bars and restaurants to vintage shops on every corner, it is a neighborhood that is known for its trendy ambience. All in all, it exudes a cosmopolitan vibe that is both educational and artistic, providing people with an outlet for creativity as well as knowledge.
Montcalm
Montcalm is a paradise for museum and culture buffs. No matter what you are interested in, there will be something that intrigues you in this neighborhood. From art galleries and art museums for those of you who are creative and artistic, to theaters for those who like to sit, relax, and watch a show, Montcalm has it all.
This is an affluent neighborhood, whose grace and elegance are immediately apparent at first sight. Set against the historic Plains of Abraham, it exudes beauty and majesty. If you are looking for a place to relax and indulge your high-brow interests, Montcalm is the place for you.
Parliament Hill
Not far from Montcalm is Parliament Hill, which shares the same proximity to the Plains of Abraham, but provides a completely different experience. Home of the impressive parliament building, Parliament Hill does not have as many things to do as some of the other neighborhoods on this list. Nevertheless, it is an impressive part of town in its own right and deserves a visit.
Parliament Hill is perfect if you are looking for a break between neighborhoods, want a slow start to your day, or are looking to wind down following a long day of exploration. Because it is filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes, it is the perfect place to visit for a quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or if you are looking to relax and do some people watching with a cup of coffee in hand.
Old Port
Another charming and historical Quebec City destination that you should add to your list is Old Port. Old Port has a charm that is unrivaled in the whole of Canada. Lined with small antique stores, it offers you the opportunity to embark on a personal treasure hunt. If you dig deep enough, you could return home with valuable mementoes that immortalize your Quebec City holiday and transport slices of it to your mantelpiece.
Moreover, since this is a port, you can take in views of the water, with ships regularly coming in, adding additional life and vibrancy to this already-buzzing town. In addition to stunning waters, the Old Port boasts lush green parks, making it the ideal spot for a picnic or for taking in the sun.
Where to stay in Quebec City
By now it should be fairly obvious that Quebec City has a lot to offer. Whether you are visiting for a long weekend away as a couple, or are on a two-week family vacation, the Best Western Plus is the best hotel in Quebec City. Thanks to our convenient location, you will be well-connected to the streets of Quebec City and can spend your downtime relaxing in a comfortable room.
Whether you are looking for a special package for a unique experience in Quebec or simply want to book a room, we are here to help. We want to make sure that your stay with us is everything you want it to be and that you leave Quebec with a strong desire to return.
To make your stay as convenient as possible, we also offer a delicious breakfast menu to ensure that you start your day off the right way. For those late nights, you can head to Nouvo to try the unique drinks of our Mixologist Arthur Boissinot. If you are planning a trip to Quebec City and are looking for a hotel with great service in an ideal location, Best Western Hotel Quebec is the perfect choice.
