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DAY 3
Enjoy a morning excursion outside the city , heading into the lush wilderness that the province of Quebec is known for . Only 15 minutes ’ drive from the centre , Montmorency Falls gushes over a rock face to a waterway 262 feet below . A visitor centre affords a postcard-perfect view from afar , though the hike up a 487-step staircase provides a closer look ( as well as a workout ).
Afterwards , carry on towards bucolic Île d ’ Orléans , a 21 mile-long island cast into the centre of the St . Lawrence River . Dotted with farmhouses selling locally made cider , wine and cassis , it ’ s a favourite stop for gourmands . The chocolaterie on the southwestern tip of the island is especially popular ; order a soft-serve ice cream dipped in dark chocolate .
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Montmorency Falls ,
just a few minutes from
downtown Quebec
Back in the city , foodies can find more treats at Le Grand Marché de Québec , a vast hall stuffed with everything from local cheeses to seasonal fruits . Or , alternatively , sign up for an indulgence of a different kind . In the old town , Strøm Nordic Spa has thermal pools overlooking the St . Lawrence River and a range of massage and facial treatments that are perfect for a low-key pampering afternoon .
As evening falls , catch a show in the historic environs of the Théâtre Capitole , with its opulent frescoed ceiling reminiscent of a Parisian opera house . Then , the fusion of Quebec produce and Asian flavours next door at Bo Cuisine d ’ Asie awaits for a buzzy late-night feast . It ’ s a deliciously contemporary finish to a stay in Canada ’ s historic city gem .
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ESSENTIALS
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When to go : Quebec City has year-round charm , but weather is best from late spring through early autumn , allowing maximum opportunity to explore outdoors . Winters can be extremely cold and snowy , but also atmospheric — a good pick if you mostly want to eat and shop . Currency : Canadian dollar . $ 1 = 1.4 CAD Language : Officially French , but English is widely spoken Getting around : Walking is best ,
especially in the city ’ s older corners , but the split-level nature of the landscape means stairs are abundant . Budget for taxis between parts of town if you ’ re less mobile . For explorations outside of the city , a car is recommended .
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BOOK IT NOW
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Board the Zuiderdam for a seven-day Canada & New England Discovery cruise with Holland America Line . Guests booked on Distinctive Voyages sailings are welcomed by a dedicated host , and invited to a Private Welcome Reception and on an Exclusive Shore Event . Departs Quebec City , Canada , on September 28 , 2024 .
CALL US
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Contact our agency to book your vacation .
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image : alamy . Illustration : Lis watkins |
20 • pos t c a rds |