CME Cruise Conferences arriving in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

As your cruise concludes along the majestic St. Lawrence River, consider your arrival in Quebec City not as an end, but as the beginning of a captivating epilogue to your journey. While your time at sea was dedicated to professional enrichment, this is your opportunity for personal discovery in a city that feels like a European sojourn, without the transatlantic flight. We strongly encourage you to extend your stay for one to three days to truly savor the soul of French Canada. Few places in North America are as steeped in history as Québec City. Older than Jamestown and founded before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, it is the only city north of Mexico whose original fortifications remain intact. The Québec City historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is still home to religious orders and hospitals that date back to the 17th century. Disembarking here offers a seamless transition from your ship into the heart of this living museum. A Suggested Post-Cruise Itinerary: Day 1: Immersion in Old Québec After disembarking, a short taxi ride will bring you to your accommodations. Consider a boutique hotel nestled within the historic walls or the grandeur of the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Once settled, your exploration begins on foot—the only way to truly appreciate the city’s charm. Start in the Lower Town (Basse-Ville). Wander the cobblestone lanes of the Quartier Petit Champlain, one of North America’s oldest commercial streets. Here, artisan boutiques, art galleries, and inviting bistros are tucked into beautifully preserved 17th- and 18th-century buildings. Its Place-Royale, the very spot where Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608, would look familiar to the explorer, even with its modern attractions of gift shops and cafés. Don’t miss the massive Fresque des Québécois, a stunning mural depicting centuries of the city’s history. For lunch, find a cozy café for a croque-monsieur or a bowl of French onion soup. In the afternoon, ride the historic Funicular up to the Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and stroll along the Dufferin Terrace. This expansive boardwalk offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River, the Lower Town, and the surrounding landscape. For dinner, indulge in the classic French-Canadian cuisine at a restaurant in the Old City, where dishes like duck confit, tourtière (meat pie), or fresh local game are served in a romantic, historic setting. Day 2: Of Battles, Views, and Modern Flavors Begin your morning with a walk to the Plains of Abraham, the historic battleground where, in 1759, the French forces under General Montcalm were decisively trounced by the British, led by General Wolfe. Today, this sprawling urban park is a beautiful green space perfect for a reflective walk. Adjacent to the Plains is the Citadelle de Québec, an active military installation and the largest British fortress built in North America. If you time your visit right during the summer, you can witness the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony. In the afternoon, delve deeper into the Upper Town. Visit the magnificent Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, a national historic site, and the tranquil gardens of the Hôtel-de-Ville (City Hall). For a different perspective, consider a guided walking tour that illuminates the city’s four centuries of history, from its military past to its architectural evolution. For the evening, step outside the main tourist hub and explore the vibrant Saint-Roch or Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find a more contemporary dining scene, with innovative chefs, craft breweries, and lively bistros favored by locals. It’s the perfect way to experience the modern pulse of this historic city. Day 3: Natural Wonders or Artistic Treasures & Departure On your final day, choose your own adventure. For a dose of nature’s drama, take a short taxi or bus ride to Parc de la Chute-Montmorency. At 83 meters (272 feet), these powerful falls are a full 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls. A cable car can whisk you to the top for spectacular views and a walk across a suspension bridge that spans the roaring cascade. Alternatively, immerse yourself in art at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ), which features an outstanding and comprehensive collection of Québécois art from the 17th century to the present day. The modern Pierre Lassonde Pavilion is an architectural masterpiece in itself. After a final lunch and some last-minute shopping for maple syrup products or local crafts, it’s time to depart. Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) is a straightforward 20-30 minute taxi or ride-share journey from the city center. Your extended stay will leave you culturally enriched and thoroughly refreshed, a well-deserved reward before returning to the demands of your practice.