I, as a traveler always prefer to visit places with historic significance. Such places open up new exploration, knowledge and experience for a budding traveler. Hence while writing about UNESCO World Heritage Site it is immense satisfaction for a writer as it imparts a sense of responsibility. Today, we will be exploring the Historic District of Old Québec and getting to know more about the place.
About Historic District of Old Québec
The Old Québec is a famous place in Europe and later part of North America. It is a 17th-century historic place with museums and landmarks. The entire town or district is spread about in 134 hectares of land. The town is divided into two parts known as the Upper part and lower part. The Upper town consists of mostly the defensive part like the citadel and the fortification walls. However, the lower town has some finest tourist spots like the harbor and Place Royale.
The important factor that attracts people is the European charm and essence this North American Town possesses. This part of the old Québec also earns the name of the first-ever walled city in Mexico. This pretty town is inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage Site for the fortification wall.
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Things to do in WHS of Old Québec
Walkthrough the European streets
Walking through the Old Québec is like walking through a 400-year-old town and reminiscing the past. The streets have many things to offer. Tourists love to explore the architectural eminence and enjoy the beauty of the monuments while walking through the streets of Old Québec. Several magnificent hotels look like no less than a palace. All these monuments, architectural structures and hotels have a prominent place in UNESCO World Heritage List.
Also, the streets have several shops and eateries that attract people to stay back and shop.
Visit Château Frontenac
Château Frontenac is a famous tourist spot and landmark in Old Québec. It has been standing tall for 125 years in the heart of the city. And has gained the name of the crown jewel of Old Québec. The architecture of Château Frontenac is like any other hotel probably across the world. That makes the building one of the most photographed by the tourist.
Once you enter the hotel you will definitely be mesmerized by the beauty of the interior design. The pillars and beams inside the hotel are hand-carved with a lot of patience and love. This hotel conducts historical meetings and is attended by celebrities from worldwide.
There are restaurants inside the hotel that serves the best of cuisines. And if a day permits book a room there and stays like a king and queen!
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Explore Dufferin Terrace
If you have visited the famous Château Frontenac then you cannot miss the beautiful wooden sidewalk Dufferin Terrace, next to it. Walkthrough the wooden sidewalk and explore the city like never before. If you walk to the end of the street you get a glimpse of the river, the hotel and other landmarks. The view is altogether breathtakingly beautiful.
And if things permit tourists can get under the Dufferin Terrace. There is a world-famous authentic and age-old archeological crypt underneath the Dufferin Terrace. It implicit the history of Old Québec.
Shop at Petit-Champlain
If you are in some serious shopping mood Petit-Champlain is the place for you! These European influence streets and shops alongside the streets are the major attractions of Old Quebec. There are several boutiques around the corner, yet the artifacts and artisans are the ones that will lure you to shop and stay exploring more.
One of the major reasons why tourists should shop from the local shops of Petit-Champlain is authenticity. The clothes and other accessories are mostly made by the locals. The shopping here also promotes indigenous artwork and sustainable items. Go for some local artifacts and handicrafts to promote the indigenous work.
Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
Again those who have a taste for architectural eminence should or must visit the place. Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral is a neo-classical structure with amazing grandeur. It is one of the masterpieces when it comes to architecture. There is no restriction on other religions entering the premises or visiting inside the church. You need to self-guide through the church and enjoy the interior.
It is amazing to experience as well as a holy experience in Oldtown.
Québec City’s Walls
The Québec City’s Walls is the most important spot in the Old town. The walls of Québec are famous and important due to their historical significance. The decision to build the fortification walls is to provide protection from outer intruders. However, now after centuries, the walls are still intact, standing proudly covering the city. These 17th-century walls have seems everything under the sky, battles, wars and beauty of the city!
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The Historic District of Old Québec is a place worth a visit. Tourists experience a European touch in the nook and corner of the city. Tourism here thrived and boomed over some time. The streets, architecture and landscapes make the place sought a visit. Hence pack your bag and get to go to the oldest town on earth!
Bon Voyage…
