Quebec City is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. If you only have one day to explore the city, here are some of the top things to see and do:
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Château Frontenac: This iconic landmark is a must-see when visiting Quebec City. You can take a tour of the historic hotel, or simply admire its architecture from the outside. The long promenade alongside the hotel, the Terrasse Dufferin, offers panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and Basse-Ville (Lower Town) .
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Place Royale and Petit-Champlain: This small but picturesque square was the site of the first European colony in Canada and is surrounded by restored 17th- and 18th-century houses. A visit to the Centre dInterprétation de Place-Royale is an option here. A ride on the funicular offers a lovely view of Petit-Champlain district, Place Royale and the St. Lawrence River.
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Musée de la Civilisation: This ambitious museum, filled with fascinating exhibits, can easily fill 2 or 3 hours. It highlights the culture and history of Quebec City and has eight rotating exhibitions and includes interactive exhibits.
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Quartier Petit Champlain: This is a charming pedestrian street with shops and restaurants. It is a great place to grab lunch and do some souvenir shopping.
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La Citadelle de Québec: This is a historic military fortress that offers guided tours. It is a great place to learn about the citys military history.
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Marché du Vieux-Port: This is a farmers market that sells fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. It is a great place to grab a snack or some souvenirs.
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Terrasse Dufferin: This is a long promenade alongside the Château Frontenac that offers panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and Basse-Ville (Lower Town) .
While one day is not enough to see everything that Quebec City has to offer, these are some of the top things to see and do. If you have extra time, you can also consider taking a full day whale-watching cruise from Quebec City, visiting Wendake to experience the Huron-Wendat indigenous culture, or checking out some of the citys other museums and attractions.