Quebec City is a living museum where visitors can immerse themselves in colonial history, French Canadian culture, and quaint architecture dating back to the 17th century.
Though it is the capital of Canada's Quebec province, it is smaller than Montreal which lies to the southwest. Both Montreal and Quebec are on the St. Lawrence River.
The main attraction is the area contained within the ramparts of Old Quebec's upper city. It is several blocks of narrow streets filled with shops, restaurants, hotels, and residences that occupy buildings constructed mostly from the 1600s through the 1800s.
Quebec City's economy is based on tourism with a special emphasis on dining.
In addition to restaurants in the center of town, there is a restaurant row leading visitors under an archway into the walled section. Various streets are often closed to cars to create a festival atmosphere.
Walking is the preferred means of transportation and for anyone in relatively good physical condition the streets do not present a difficult challenge.
French is the primary language and local regulations governing the use of French mean there is little translation available when it comes to street signs and restaurant menus. But for English speakers the language barrier is easily overcome. Most waiters and shopkeepers are either bilingual or know enough English to get by.
If you visit, consider getting out in the early morning to enjoy a quiet breakfast, or coffee break, and to roam the streets without competing with the crowds that begin to swarm the city after about ten in the morning.
Quebec City is one of those special small places that offer surprises wherever you look.
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© Dean Pagani 2022