Quebec City's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only remaining fortified colonial city north of Mexico, was founded by Samuel de Champlain in 1608 and retains a distinctly French character, the language, architecture, and food culture set it apart from almost anywhere else in North America.
The Walled Old Town
Château Frontenac, the castle-like hotel that dominates the city's skyline, anchors Old Quebec's upper town, with the Dufferin Terrace boardwalk offering views across the St. Lawrence River toward the surrounding countryside.
Petit-Champlain, the lower town's oldest commercial street, is a genuinely charming stretch of stone buildings, boutiques, and cafes, connected to the upper town by a funicular or the steep 'Breakneck Stairs' for those preferring the more literal route.
Winter Carnival
Quebec Winter Carnival, one of the largest winter festivals in the world, transforms the city each February with ice sculptures, a night parade, and the Ice Palace, Bonhomme, the carnival's snowman mascot, has been a beloved fixture since 1955.
Even outside carnival season, the old town's cobbled streets take on a particular charm in snow, and the ÎleD'Orléans, a short drive from the city, offers farm-to-table restaurants and maple syrup producers worth a half-day trip.
Recommended Stay · Quebec City · Old Town
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
The castle-like landmark hotel that defines Quebec City's skyline, with river views and a central location inside the old town's walls.
