The Heart of New France: A Walk through Québec's Lower Town
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Port
Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$59
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 2¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Walk through Québec City's charming Lower Town to appreciate its beautifully preserved architecture. From Place de Paris and rue Saint Pierre — once one of the most important merchant streets in "New France" — make your way through narrow cobblestone passages. Your guide will share stories of early settlers, bustling trade routes, and the origins of this remarkable neighborhood.
Don't miss iconic Place Royale, the birthplace of French civilization in North America. Surrounded by impeccably restored 17th- and 18th-century stone buildings, the square marks the location of Samuel de Champlain's earliest settlement in 1608. At its center stands Notre Dame des Victoires — the oldest stone church still standing on the continent. Its modest façade and beautifully preserved interior reflect centuries of devotion, reconstruction, and Québec's enduring cultural heritage.
Explore the picturesque Petit Champlain Quarter. One of the oldest commercial districts in North America, this pedestrian-only neighborhood is beloved for its charming boutiques, artisan shops, cafés, and restaurants housed in centuries-old buildings. Merchants, shipbuilders, and craftspeople shaped the daily life of the colony from here. Enjoy the quintessentially Québecois experience of sampling maple taffy on snow, made by pouring hot maple syrup onto fresh ice to create a soft, chewy candy.
Return to the ship with your guide. Time permitting, guests wishing to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so but must make their own way back to the ship.
Notes:
This leisurely walking tour covers short distances. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and slight inclines. Tour operates rain or shine but may be canceled by the operator in the event of extreme weather or unsuitable conditions. Tour is not accessible; suitable for guests using a mobility device with a companion to assist.