Getting Oriented
The central portions of Lower Town (Basse-Ville) and Upper Town (Haute-Ville) make up the Old City (Vieux-Québec). You can walk from one to the other, or ride the funicular that runs between them. Beyond the walls, the main street is the Grande-Allée, which approaches the Old City from the west.
- Upper Town. Crowning Cap Diamant and partially surrounded by the Fortifications, Upper Town hosts the city's main attractions, including the majestic Château Frontenac and La Citadelle, a star-shape fortress. The sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, the Laurentian Mountains to the north, and the Appalachians to the south are all enchanting.
- Lower Town. A maze of cobblestone streets with tucked-away cafés, boutique hotels, artisan shops, and art galleries characterizes Lower Town.
- Outside the Old City. Rue St-Jean, avenue Cartier, the Grande-Allée, and the St-Roch district all have restaurants, shops, and nightlife worth checking out.
