Citadel: Ramparts thick walls and ditches surround the star shaped Citadel in Quebec. It sits atop Cap Diamant allowing wide views over the St. Lawrence River and surrounding region. The British completed the massive fortress in 1822 but continued to strengthen the defensive position until 1850. The complex encompasses a military museum restored powder magazine and the summer residence of Canada's Governor General. The 22nd Canadian Regiment is stationed at the Citadel and performs a summer Changing of the Guard ceremony. Address: 1 Cote de la Citadelle, Quebec City.
Musee de la Civilisation: A Meum comprised of three separate locations Musee de la Civilisation delves into the many facets of human history and the establishment of French America. The main museum near the Old Port is a modern structure from architect Moshe Safdie. A seond museum is on Place Royale where Samuel de Champlain founded a fur trading colony in 1608 and the third is in the hilltop seminary. Address: 85 Rue Dalhousie, Quebec City.
Where to Stay in Quebec City for Sightseeing: Most handy to the tourist attractions are hotelin the Old Quebec between the Chateau Frontenac and the Citadel or in the lower Basse Ville along the river. Sps restaurants cafes and historic sights are concentrated in this fairly compact area with a funicular to save climbing the steep hill a funicular to save climbing the steep hill that separates the upper and lower neighborhoods. Here are some highly rated hotels in Quebec's Old Town:
1. Luxury Hotels: AQuebec landmark at the epicenter of the Old Town and a prime tourist attraction itself Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac has a rich history along with elegant public rooms and magnificent views. Almost directly below in the riverside Basse Ville Auberge Saint-Antoine displays historic artitacts in its stunning piblic areas and guest rooms so it's like staying in a museum. Right next to the Parliament Building and ates to the Old Town Hilton Quebec has an indoor outdoor pool spectacular views and is a short walk from all the main attrations.
2. Mid Range Hotels: Art Deco elegance and style mark the Hotel Manoir Victoria which also offers a pool and a superb restauran in the pedestrianized zone of quaint streets and boutiqes. In the historic Basse Ville Le Saint Pierre Auberge Distinctive is a few steps from the Museum of Civilization. Near Parliament and the best shopping streets right by the Old Town walls Quebec City Marriott Downtown has a good fitness center.
3. Budget Hotels: Maison du Fort is one of a row of historic stone homes along Rue St. Genevieve that have been converted into small hotels. In the same neighborhood on a picturesque street near the Citadel Chateau Fleur de Lys L'Hotel gives guests warm personal attention. Only a block from the Citadel Le Chateau de Pierre is in another converted stone house.
Tips and Tours:
1. Sightseeing by Bus: If you want to see some of the city's top attractions in a short amount of time the Quebec City Sightseeing. Tour is a great option. This two hour excursion in a comfortable motorcach takes you around the city's top sites such as Old Quebec the Plains of Abraham and Place Royale. Along the way you'll hear stories about the city's lture and history from an experienced guide.
2. Walking Tour: Exploring on foot is a great way to soak up the European feel of Old Quebec City. The Quebec City Walking Tour takes you down the narrow streets of the Upper and Lower Town to see historic attractions such as the Fortifications of Quebec Notre Damedes Victoires Church and the Citadelle of Quebec. As you stroll down the narrow streets the experienced guide will share fascinating stories about the city's past.
3.Whale Watching Tour: To escape the hustle and bustle and experience the wild side of Quebec City hop aboard a Full Day Whale Watching Cruise. This exhilarating tour travels along the St. Lawrence River to Baie Sainte Catherine where you can board either a small zodiac boat or a three level observation boat with a certified naturalist and cruise the waters for three hours in search of seals whales and belugas.