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.”

Sir George-Étienne-Cartier National Historic Site

Exquisitely preserved artifacts of the 19th-century upper-middle-classes and their lifestyle are commemorated at Sir George-Étienne-Cartier’s house, now a National Historic Site. Cartier was one of the Fathers of Canadian Confederation and his impeccable home, in which he lived from 1848 to 1871, provides an insight into the mores of his social class at that time. Using the Victorian decor as a backdrop for theatrical re-enactments, the on-site performing troupe enlivens the home and its detailed history (see Sir George-Etienne-Cartier National Historic Site, Montréal).
Sir George-Etienne-Cartier National Historic Site, Montréal

A Victorian home, restored by Parks Canada as a National Historic Site, contains marvelous interactive exhibitions inviting visitors into a typical 19th-century parlor. Enjoy theatrical re-enactments portrayed in shows such as “A Victorian Christmas,” “A Servant Confides,” and “Elegance and Propriety: Etiquette at the Cartiers,” all of which offer a fascinating insight into the lives once lived here (see Sir George-Étienne-Cartier National Historic Site).
Skating and Snowshoeing

Indoor arenas in summer and outdoor city parks and lakes in winter provide numerous ice-skating options in both cities, while snowshoeing is reserved for larger tracts of land such as Parc du Mont-Royal in Montréal.
Ski Competition

Outside the city limits, the fun continues with more serious winter sports. Downhill and cross-country skiing competitions are held in the Jacques-Cartier area of Lac Beauport, 20 minutes from Québec City.
Sky Complex

This amazingly large gay complex features a pub, a dance club and a cabaret to entertain the large and growing gay and lesbian population on the east side of downtown.
Sofa Bar

A stylish lounge, decorated with candles and sofas and stocking delicious port and a range of cigars.
Sofitel, Montréal

With access to galleries, museums, shopping and nightlife, the Sofitel stands as a welcome luxury chain addition to the city’s underlying shortage of hotel rooms. Every frill and service is available. Dining excellence is on-site at Le Renoir restaurant.
Soto

Excellent Japanese sushi and hosomaki have made Soto’s name in the city.
Square Dorchester and Place du Canada, Montréal

This gracious square was the Catholic cemetery from 1798 to 1854 and is surrounded by elegant churches and buildings. Highlighted by the Sun Life Building on its east side, once the largest structure in the British Commonwealth, Square Dorchester contains numerous monuments, including one of the first French Canadian prime minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier, and is the starting point for city tours. Place du Canada was established to commemorate the nation’s war dead from both World Wars.
Square Victoria

In 1860 a magnificent monument to honor Queen Victoria was erected on this haymarket square.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
- under $20
- $20–$40
- $40–$55
- $55–$80
- over $80
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $50
- $50–$100
- $100–$150
- $150–$200
- over $200