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Strategically perched on the precipice of Cap Diamant with a full 360-degree view, this powerful bastion would daunt the bravest of enemies approaching the riverside city. All you need to do is attend one of its summertime cannon-firing demonstrations to appreciate the persuasive power of this mighty fortress (see La Citadelle, Québec City).

Architect Moishe Safdie mirrored the surrounding neighborhood by incorporating the French Regime style in his design for this interesting building. Inside, however, it is another story – a futuristic world complete with a range of interactive exhibitions, as well as displays of folk art, religious icons, antique furniture in period settings, and everyday items that illustrate life in the city during its 400-year history. There are also collaborative exhibitions at Place Royale and the Musée de l’Amérique française, the additional space allowing for a more comprehensive program covering multiple themes and generations (see Musée de la Civilisation de Québec).

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).

The most photographed landmark in the city, this imposing hotel with its green copper roof is an architectural jewel designed by architect Bruce Price as a French-style château. Since it opened in 1893, the hotel has welcomed the rich, the famous and the noble through its doors and into its plush salons. Guided tours are available (see Fairmont Château Frontenac, Québec City).

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.

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.

Home to artisans in the 17th century and dockworkers in the 19th century, the houses in this area have now been renovated and adapted into a range of eclectic gift shops, turning what is the oldest part of the city into today’s liveliest quarter. Maple butter, French macramé, and sculpted cherrywood cribs are just a few of the many unusual treats you can purchase here. Along the way you can eat and drink in the bars and cafés lining the pedestrianized streets.

The Bassin Louise is the home of the Old Town’s fresh produce market, where farmers from Ile d’Orléans (see Ile d’Orléans) and other outlying areas bring their harvest to tempt appetites and inspire local chefs. Don’t be afraid to ask for a sample before you buy, especially at Le Fromageur cheese stall. Inside the green-roofed building is a café, where you can savor more of the local delights.

In the 18th century this square was the site of the Notre-Dame market and is still a popular gathering place for locals. During the summer it is often jammed with visitors who come to enjoy free music concerts and performances by local actors. The Romanesque architecture, as seen in the Hôtel de Ville (town hall) immediately beside the square, lends the area an imposing air.

Built as a military defence against the British in the 18th century, the striking stone gate (Porte Saint-Jean) is now a tourist draw from which visitors can access and walk for 4 km (3 miles) along the city’s ramparts. The area around the gate, also known as Quartier Montcalm, has an intense concentration of Québécois specialty merchants, as well as designer boutiques, cultural outlets and nightclubs. Bring your appetite too, because this zone is famous for its bistros and restaurants serving fine French cuisine.