Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City became my favorite city in North America….or at least, the most romantic. You know this sensation when you see a bunch of pictures from some place, you love what you see, but when you get there, you finally realize that it’s only one street that stands out to you. My story is totally different. I saw a bunch of pictures from Quebec City, I’ve heard a lot of good things about this city, but when I finally got there, I was enchanted.
I am from Europe, so Christmas Markets that are full of craft shops, and stands with good food or wine, are nothing new to me, but I still enjoy it a lot! Unfortunately, New York doesn't have the same vibe. It’s beautiful at Christmas but it’s also very commercial.
This year I didn’t go to Europe for Christmas time. I was homesick, and really wanted to feel this European Christmas market atmosphere. And that’s what Quebec City is.
It’s not only one street - it’s the whole old town that is charming, and welcoming. We spent two days there, walking a few times a day on the same streets and still enjoyed it a lot. So in conclusion? Don’t wait - just go there.
You can get there by car, or plane. We decided to drive, and it’s around a 9h drive from New York. You can combine this trip with skiing or hiking in Vermont, which shortens the one shot distance that you have to drive. There was heavy traffic in the city so I recommend getting a hotel close to the old city, park the car, and don’t use it until going back to the States.
We stayed at the Marriott Hotel, and it was a perfect location. Parking is literally on the next block, and in less than 5 minutes, you can cross St. Johns Gate and walk into the old city. Quebec is divided into two cities, the top one and the other one closer to the river. This city is not about getting from one monument to the other, but it’s more about wandering around. Around each corner you can find a nice cozy street, old brick houses, or local craft shop that invites you to just look around.
You should definitely go to the lower part of the city. You can get there by Funicular (cable car) or on foot. The cable car costs 5 CAD per person, and it’s cash only, so I recommend walking. Especially, that this is just a few minute walk. The lower part of the city has narrow streets, more craft shops, and what brought my attention the most, were the street musicians. Check them out in this short video.
When you get tired from walking around, stop by in one of many bars, cafes or bistros. I highly recommend trying them out:
Bistro Sous le Fort - Bistro with the warm atmosphere, very friendly stuff, and delicious food. Perfect for a dinner or late night drink with a small snack.
Sapristi - modern eatery that offers great pizza.
Conti Caffe - restaurant that offers steaks, veal, pasta etc. Great option for dinner.
Pub St-Alexandre - nice bar with great live music. Their beer selection is huge!
L'Oncle Antoine - European style pub. They have pretty good beer selection.
This was our first time in this city, but definitely not the last! It’s only a 2h drive from Montreal, but the city is so different. Cozy, is a word that comes to my mind when I think about it. During Christmas time, this city is magical, and even at such low temperatures, it didn't stop me from running around with my camera. I hope you will like it as much as I do, and my pictures speak louder than words.
