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The only museum of art in Canada dedicated solely to contemporary art, this high-profile institution has an innovative program of exhibitions highlighting the work of artists from Canada and the international circuit.

Fortin (1888–1970) is regarded as one of the most influential landscape artists of the 20th century and his fluid portrayals of his native Québec Province, capturing its unique light, fill this tiny museum, which is housed in a former 19th-century stone warehouse. This is the largest permanent collection of his works in the world. Also on display are contemporary works by local artists.

In 1653 Marguerite Bourgeoys arrived in Ville-Marie to open a school, which began in a stable assigned to her by the Sieur de Maisonneuve. By 1655 she was head of the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre-Dame and oversaw the construction of Canada’s first stone church in 1675. The chapel that remains dates from 1771. It is known as the “Sailors Chapel,” given its portside location and model ships hanging throughout.

This striking modern building, married with the more ancient Place Royale setting, vibrates with activity throughout the year, as visitors digest one cultural exhibition treat after another on display inside and outside this museum (see Musée Pointe-à-Callière).

Controversially erected in 1809 to celebrate victory over the French at the Battle of Trafalgar.

From the 31st floor of the Capital Observatory you can enjoy spectacular views of the entire region. Adding to the experience are the taped interpretation guides offering information about the city in French, English and Spanish. Many city tours begin or end here.

Peterson (b.1925) entered an amateur talent contest aged 14 in his home town Montréal – an event that he went on to win and which inspired him to leave high school and dedicate his life to jazz. However he was only given permission to do so by his father providing he worked to be the best jazz pianist in the world. Peterson succeeded beyond anyone’s imagination: five unequalled decades of recordings are a testament to his virtuosity and have made him one of the greats of this musical genre.

In 1995, the PQ held a referendum in Québec on the separatist question – should the province split from Canada? The “no” side won by 50.5 percent. Despite the narrow defeat, support for separatism has dwindled in recent times.

Located inside a former jail now called the Baillairgé Pavilion, the Battlefields Park Interpretation Center presents an inventive agenda to illustrate one of North America’s most historic sites. The highlight is a multimedia show recounting the battles of 1759 and 1760 that took place here, leading to a French defeat by the British (see Moments in History). An imposing mural by Québec artist Aline Martineau also illustrates the establishment of the park in the 1930s and how it has changed over the 20th century (see Parc des Champs-de-Bataille, Québec City).