Bonjour Quebec
A beautiful easter story
Our journey from Montreal to Quebec was beautiful and easy, with clear directions on the road. We arrived at the historic Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture, a sight that immediately inspired awe. Our rental car wound through the narrow streets and the city's charm immediately captivated me. Stone buildings with colourful shutters and the imposing Château Frontenac loomed above. I thought staying at the heart of Old Quebec, offering a perfect blend of comfort and historic charm, also roaming around at night and seeing the lights.
We realised our first challenge was very little English signpost, and most of the parking boards were in French. Using Google, we tried to translate to understand that whether we were allowed to park at the side since it was a Saturday. We would have wasted 2 hours with this learning process. Ultimately, we decided to pay a bit higher and park at Château Frontenac parking. I thought staying near to Château Frontenac was the best decision as we say sunrise & sunset from the top.
The next morning, I set out to explore Old Quebec on foot. My first stop was the iconic Château Frontenac, a structure that exuded grandeur and left me in awe. The hotel's magnificence and the breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River from Dufferin Terrace were truly a sight to behold. The terrace was alive with the sounds of street performers, the sights of artists at work, and the energy of tourists, all contributing to the lively atmosphere of Old Quebec. From there, I wandered down to the Quartier Petit Champlain, one of North America's oldest commercial districts. The narrow streets were lined with boutiques, artisan shops, and cozy cafes. I couldn't resist stopping at souvenir shops and buying different versions of maple syrups. Since it was easter morning, I was lucky enough to participate in the prayer at the historic Notre Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral—the intricate interior details, with its stunning stained-glass windows and ornate altar, still clear in my eyes. Afterwards, I strolled along the fortifications of the old city walls, soaking in the history and the views of the surrounding landscape. I then took a ferry to see the city view from the ferry and went to the other side to explore. The cost of the ferry was reasonable, and the view from the ferry was amazing. I ventured beyond the city to explore some of the natural wonders nearby. A short drive brought me to Montmorency Falls, a magnificent frozen waterfall that stands 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls. I took the cable car to the top for a spectacular view, then walked across the suspension bridge. We then visited a few more churches and wandered through the Plains of Abraham, a historic park that was the site of a pivotal battle between the French and British. The expansive green space offered a peaceful retreat and stunning views of the city skyline.
I have included more stops in the video. Watch the beauty here.
I took a final stroll along the St. Lawrence River or through the illuminated streets of Old Quebec, soaking in the historic atmosphere before saying good bye!
Quebec City's blend of old-world charm and vibrant culture is truly enchanting. From the historic streets of Old Quebec to the natural beauty of Montmorency Falls and the cultural richness of its museums, every moment I spent there was an adventure. As I boarded my plane, I knew that the memories of this magical city, with its unique blend of history and modernity, would stay with me.Few french words I added to my vocabulary would be very useful every time.
beau Québec. merci..au revoir