Experience the joys of Quebec City's immensely charming Old Town from three unique perspectives: on foot, riding a funicular and by horse-drawn carriage.
This tour begins by walking from the pier through Quebec City's wonderfully historic Old Town, an esteemed World Heritage Site and the only walled city in North America. The area was settled about 400 years ago and your first destination, Place-Royale, became the heart of the original settlement. Here in the square, you'll see Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, the continent's oldest Catholic church, while your guide elaborates on what life was like in those early years. Right around the corner is the pedestrian-only, boutique-lined Petit-Champlain Street. This delightful street with its cafés and specialty shops also features colorful street performers such as jugglers and strolling musicians.
Next, you'll ride the funicular to the Upper Town and walk to landmarks such as Dufferin Terrace, where Samuel de Champlain built his fort in 1620. It's one of the best places to take in sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, Island of Orléans, and majestic Laurentian Mountains. Adjacent to Dufferin Terrace is the castle-like Chateau Frontenac, Quebec's most noted landmark. At nearby Jardin des Gouverneurs, or Governor's Garden, you will board a horse-drawn carriage and then ride at a leisurely pace around the city. Your route will follow the elegant, boutique-lined Grande-Allée, often referred to as the Champs-Élysées of Quebec, before continuing past the imposing Parliament Building and through several historic gates.
Your carriage ride ends back at the Governor's Garden and from here, you are free to stay and do some further exploring on your own, or return directly back to the pier.
Please note: This tour includes just over 2-hours of moderate walking. There are various gradients and surfaces to negotiate including cobblestone. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns. Participants should be in good physical condition and must be able to enter and exit the horse carriage with limited assistance. A light sweater or jacket; umbrella; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. The sequence of the tour may vary.