LOOKING for the charm of cobblestone streets, candlelit bistros, and historic castles—without the red-eye flight or a passport full of foreign stamps? Say bonjour to Quebec City, Canada’s answer to a European escape. Perched along the mighty St. Lawrence River, Quebec City feels like it’s been lifted straight from the pages of a French storybook, complete with centuries-old architecture, romantic river views, and buttery croissants that rival anything in Paris.
Many Canadians are rethinking their travel plans these days. With the U.S. increasingly caught up in its own drama, it might be time to hit pause on cross-border trips and put that energy and money back into our own incredible backyard. Canadian tourism could use a little love right now—and few places deserve it more than Quebec City.
For the Summer Lovers
Quebec City in the summer is a playground for romance, and the Old Town—Vieux-Québec—is where it all begins.
Meander through winding alleys lined with stone buildings, street musicians serenading the crowds, and flower-laced balconies overlooking cozy cafés. A sunset stroll along the Dufferin Terrace is also pure magic, with views of the Château Frontenac standing proudly above the shimmering river.
Couples can book a horse-drawn carriage ride at twilight, or take a ferry across to Lévis for an even more stunning panoramic view of the skyline. Feeling adventurous? Paddleboard at dawn on the St. Lawrence, or hike through Montmorency Falls Park, where a suspension bridge over thundering water makes for one evergreen Selfie.
After a day of exploring, grab dinner at a tucked-away bistro in Petit-Champlain—Canada’s oldest commercial district—where string lights, French wine, and accordion music set the mood. It’s Paris without the jet lag.
For the Whole Family
Traveling with kids? Quebec City delivers a cultural hit with a side of fun. The Citadel—a massive star-shaped fortress still manned by Canadian troops—offers guided tours and ceremonial guards that will fascinate history buffs of all ages. Nearby, the Plains of Abraham blend history with open space for running, kite-flying, and picnicking.
The Aquarium du Québec is a hit with little ones, boasting polar bears, seals, and a surprisingly large jellyfish collection. In the summer, kids can cool off at the water games park or hop on a river cruise complete with pirate-themed storytelling.
For a touch of whimsy, don’t miss Valcartier Vacation Village just 20 minutes north. It’s Canada’s largest outdoor waterpark, with enough slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones to wear out even the most energetic kids—and give the grown-ups a break.
Support Canada, See Canada
Supporting Canadian tourism doesn’t mean settling—it means discovering gems like Quebec City, where French culture meets Canadian hospitality, and summer adventures come dressed in historic charm and maple sweetness. So this year, skip everywhere else to rediscover True North’s beauty.
