DK Travel : Montréal and Québec City

Situated on the mighty St Lawrence River, the sights of these two cities captivate visitors with their history, culture and festivity. Not only were they both major players in the foundation of Canada but their portside locations have kept them at the heart of international commerce, resulting in a harmonious blend of heritage architecture and exciting modern venues that charm all those who come to Canada’s “belle province.”

Place Royale

In 1642 settlers built a stockade where Montréal was founded (see Place Royale, Montréal).
Place Royale

The site of Nouvelle-France’s first settlement, built by Samuel de Champlain in 1608, has been the hub of the city’s cultural activities throughout its history. Shipbuilders, merchants, clergy and everyday citizens once gathered here to conduct commerce, celebrate harvests, marry, drink and bury their dead. Today, festivals such as Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France (see Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France) rekindle the days of the early settlers with theatrical performances incorporating period costumes and traditional music. Don’t miss Église Notre-Dame-des-Victoires with its paintings by Van Dyck depicting French victory over the British in 1690.
Place Royale, Montréal

Montréal’s oldest public square (1657) is located on the site where the city was originally founded in 1642. It features the Pointe-à-Callière museum (see Musée Pointe-à-Callière), a gift shop and outdoor events. The residence of Louis-Hector Callière, a French governor, was also once located here, as was the 19th-century Royal Insurance Building and Montréal’s first Customs House.
Place Ville-Marie

Place Ville Marie attracts consumers in large numbers, particularly with the Marché Movenpick providing a variety of delicious European food.
Planetarium, Montréal

Under the starry skies projected onto the Star Theatre’s domed ceiling, visitors are propelled into the heavens courtesy of high-precision technology. A fascinating journey into time and outer space to understand the planets and the universe.
Plateau Bar

This is a popular meeting place, located in the W Hotel. The bar overlooks a lively lounge area, ideal for people watching.
Pôle-des-Rapides

This historic area originated from the drama of the Lachine Rapids, which prevented early explorers, settlers, traders and the military from continuing farther west. It now includes the communities of Lachine, LaSalle and Verdun, minutes from downtown Montréal. Boasting the most popular cycle path in Canada and 100 km (60 miles) of trails, the district is also home to the Lachine National Historic Fur Trading Museum.
Porte Saint-Louis

Although the city walls were a security necessity in the 18th century, they were an impediment to merchants, so large gates such as Porte Saint-Louis were cut into the fortifications to improve the flow of commerce.
Pub d’Orsay

Without a doubt, one of the most appealing pubs, indoors or out, for Québec’s famous micro-brewery beers such as Belle Gueule, Boréale and Blanche de Chambly, and the unique taste of Cidre de Minot.
Pub l’Ile Noir

An authentic Scottish pub with wood decor and an excellent selection of single malt scotches and imported draught beer. The cosy ambiance makes up for the high prices.