Quebec City is probably not what comes to mine when you’re asked where you would go for your dream vacation. Although sometimes overlooked, Quebec City can be a very beautiful place.
One very important thing to consider before planning a trip to Quebec is the weather. As everyone knows, Canadian winters can be extremely cold. Late January and February are the coldest times of the year, and I would not advise going during this time, but December is great. While it is still cold, it is not bitter cold as the rest of the winter, and the snow makes everything absolutely beautiful.
Also, going during the winter gives you access to things you wouldn’t be able to do in any other season. Sugar shacks are a big deal in Quebec City, everyone who lives has to have been there at least once, and it’s a great experience. You get to sit down and have a Quebecois meal (nothing weird, don’t worry), taste maple syrup on the snow, and enjoy some folk music unique to Quebec.
During the winter months, an ice hotel is built in Vieux Quebec (old Quebec), which as you can imagine, would be difficult to do in any other season. This hotel is built every year and is amazing to view, and if you’re brave, you can even stay there. The winter also brings winter carnivals which are very enjoyable and definitely worth the cold.
If the cold is not for you, summer is just as great. Vieux Quebec during the summertime is unlike any other place. The streets are full of artists and they put their artwork on display for you to look at and possibly buy. Street performers are everywhere. You can see anything from a group of people dancing to something that looks like it came right out of the circus. The weather also is great for shopping, as there are tons of little shops and cafes.
If you’re worried about not speaking French, don’ t be. Everything in Quebec is in French, but that just adds to the greatness. The signs are written in French, but the English is usually at the bottom in smaller letters. The people usually will speak French, because that is the official language of Quebec and they are very proud of that, but almost everyone can speak and understand English, at least a little.
Vieux Quebec is not like any other city. It’s like stepping back in time in a totally new world. It’s a great place for a vacation, especially is you’re looking to experience culture. Quebecois culture is so unique and interesting, it really is worth experiencing.
If you’re looking for an amazing place to go without having to cross the ocean, Quebec City is definitely a great choice.