The Vikings had already explored the territory of what is now Canada before the year 1000 but it was the French, just over 500 years later, the first to establish a colony in this Canadian territory (while the English concentrated in the United States).
Quebec City was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain on the banks of a river and it is considered the first Canadian city.
Quebec City is the only walled city in North America. This, added to its French-style buildings and the imposing Château Frontenac on its hill, is what gives it that special European charm. It's like having a taste of Europe in North America.
Its river, its wooded areas, its cobblestones, its parks, the warmth of its people, the smells, the flavours and all those elements together make it beautiful.
Quebec City offers activities and events throughout the year, regardless of the weather. People enjoy every facet in the season they are in.
Before coming to live In Canada, I thought that the cold and the snow made everything much quieter and more relaxed in that season, and that there wouldn't be much to do.
But the truth is that, with snow or without snow, life goes on and people don't stop. In fact, some of the best events Quebec City (just like in Ottawa) has to offer are held during this time of year and believe me, winter in Quebec is something everyone should experience at least once in their life.
In summer, the city has a very pleasant climate, suitable for touring throughout the city or taking advantage of outdoor activities.
In June, the National Holiday of Quebec, the day of Saint John the Baptist, is celebrated in which thousands of Quebecers take to the streets to celebrate their French tradition and some to express their separatist sentiment.
People proudly wave the Quebec flag (blue with white, with a flower as a symbol), dress and paint those colours and parades, outdoor events and concerts are held across town.
The Quebec Summer Festival is a music festival that, for 11 days, presents an enviable line-up with the best bands and the most important artists worldwide on the largest stage in North America of its kind.
Quebec City is divided into two main areas: the Basse-Ville (Lower Town) and the Haute-Ville (Upper Town). The historic centre and the oldest part, known as Vieux-Québec (Old Quebec), is almost entirely within the limits of the upper part but also has a strip that belongs to the lower part.
This is one of the ideal cities where to walk around because the city centre is very compact, safe and suitable for pedestrians.
