Historic walks
You can’t visit Quebec and neglect the historic core – bring your comfiest walking shoes, because you’ll want to explore every ornate nook and cranny here. Old Quebec
Cobbled streets, old churches, al fresco dining spots and a serene atmosphere all await in Old Quebec. The Upper Town is famed for the towering, red brick Château Frontenac, and as you walk down the steps to the Lower Town you'll see the harbor, as well as the chic boutiques and restaurants lining the labyrinth of quaint streets and alleys.
Rue de Tresor, Quebec City GIR 5B8
Libraries
Quebec has several libraries for the well-read locals, and you'll find historic institutions and modern facilities with vast collections in both English and French. Morrin Centre
This 18th century building has had many different functions over the years, from being Quebec's first jailhouse to a college. It's now home of the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec, although in addition to being able to see the huge collections of books and rare manuscripts, you can also tour some of the original prison cells and see the remnants of the building's former life.
44 Chaussée des Écossais, Quebec City G1R 4H3.
Museums
With major museums boasting world-class collections, as well as historic homes of noted residents from the past, you're bound to develop a deep appreciation of Quebec during your stay here. Musée des Ursulines de Quebec
Housed in a convent dating back to the mid-17th century, the Musée des Ursulines de Quebec gives a unique insight into the lives of Quebec's Ursuline nuns. The convent is the oldest educational institute in North America that teaches girls, with a school still functional on site. The museum lets visitors explore what life was like for the nuns, with many well-preserved artworks on display, and the guided tours are as close to a trip back in time as you can imagine.
12 Rue Donnacona, Quebec City G1R 3Y7.
Musée national des beaux-arts du Quebec
The Musée national des beaux-arts du Quebec is a unique historic building which encompasses an antiquated prison structure, sitting amid well-manicured park land. Step inside and you’ll be in a world of oil paintings and sculptures – many by the most famous creative figures in Canada, as well as touring exhibitions of art by global names.
National Battlefields Park, Quebec City G1R 5H3.
Theaters
Quebec has its share of grand theaters that create the perfect backdrop for big, audience-pleasing productions. With opera, ballet, and classical music also on the agenda, all cultural boxes are nimbly ticked. Capitole de Quebec
A quaint Beaux Arts theater with red velvet curtains and gold accents, the Capitole de Quebec has an intimate atmosphere, and this makes the perfect venue for live music, opera, and the occasional outrageously decadent cabaret show.
972 Rue Saint-Jean, Quebec City G1R 1R5.
Grand Théâtre de Quebec
With a rather drab concrete and glass exterior, the Grand Théâtre de Quebec may lack the opulent glamor of Quebec’s older buildings, but when you step inside its theaters you'll see why it's one of the city's most prominent venues. The perfect acoustics make it the best spot for classical and contemporary music, and there's a large stage where you'll find dance galas, comedy shows, musicals, and many other major performances.
269 boul René-Lévesque Est, Quebec City G1R 2B3.
