Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + See, Where to Eat + Drink, + Where to Stay in Quebec City, QC Now
Sometimes you just need to let life find you. And so we did. Eager to explore Québec City, we absorbed what was in front of us, rather than search for it.
Quebec City, Quebec
To make this happen with ease, you'll want to check-in to Vieux-Port's Auberge Saint-Antoine—the first city hotel to be accepted into the exclusive Relais & Chateaux network of high-end hotels and restaurants.
With a charming facade like this, it's believable to see why.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
Upon the valet opening the doors and welcoming us to the significantly historic Auberge Saint-Antoine, just like clock work—it all went up from there.
First, you'll stroll by the recently transformed Bar Artéfact, the hotel's casually chic lobby hotspot for the latest libation.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
Opposite the lounge is a see-through underground space highlighting the historic hotel as a famous archaeological dig. A must-see, whether stopping in for a cocktail or staying the evening.
Heading to the suite, we were greeted by French doors and so much character. Fact: Your TV will never get turned on.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
Surrounded by endless natural light, one of the best parts is undoubtedly the view.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
And with a view like this, it had our mouth's watering in anticipation for dinner at Chez Muffy later that evening.
It was time to head out and explore Vieux-Québec.
Quebec City, Quebec
From the top of the walled fortress (the only remaining fortified city walls in North America north of Mexico), you'll discover splendid views of the Laurentian Mountains.
Quebec City, Quebec
Suspended below the fortress, on the cliff face, lies the Promenade des Gouverneurs.
Quebec City, Quebec
Terrasse Dufferin offers an opportunity for strolls that showcase the commanding clifftop views prevalent on the edge of the Upper Town.
Accessible by steep stairs, Vieux-Québec’s Lower Town has its own historic charms.
Quebec City, Quebec
Basse-Ville, the original neighborhood of the city, at the base of the cliffs center-around Place Royale, built in 1608.
Quebec City, Quebec
Québec City's architecture is extraordinary and truly one-of-a-kind, breathtaking actually and reminiscent of France itself.
Quebec City, Quebec
Rue Petit-Champlain will treat you to an endless array of stylish boutiques, stunning art galleries and charming sidewalk cafes dishing up Québécois cuisine.
Québec City should officially be called "Step City." It's like taking a spin class you never actually signed up for.
Quebec City, Quebec
Your calves will wonder what's happening, but you'll be way too busy infatuating yourself into the ambiance to even think about tomorrow's repercussions.
After an exciting and adventurous afternoon exploring, it was time to head over to dinner at Chez Muffy.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
Opting of course for an alfresco seat on the breezy terrace the suite overlooked (the rustic elegance of the main dining room is perfect for the cooler months), we were enveloped by lush greenery and a cascading fountain, in addition to a dreamy view of the Saint Lawrence River.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
Our server greeted us with a fine French accent and hand-crafted cocktails arrived shortly thereafter. You must try the "Le Thé des Moines," concocted with Cirka gin, Lacuesta vermouth, green Chartreuse, Japanese green tea, Scots lavage, cucumber, ginger, lemon and cardamom bitter or the "727," blended with whisky Bushmills 10 years-aged, Maraschino liquor, pistachio syrup, basil, lemon, Unami Bitter and egg white—both of which were featured in "5 Reasons to Visit Québec City."
Following these delicious libations came a fresh-from-the-farm crisp pea salad with buttermilk and fingerling potato chips, topped with a free-range egg.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
Next, a whole Gaspé Peninsula Lobster over savoury risotto, sea lettuce butter and drizzled with balsam fir bisque.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
Click here to read more about Chez Muffy in Tripveel's "Taste" column.
Waking up to an incredibly comfortable bed reminiscent of sleeping on air, mixed with Saint Lawrence breezes— breakfast room service was not debatable.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
Fresh squeezed orange juice accompanied by seasonal fruits and granola pairs well with steaming espresso.
Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City
The perfect compliment to any physique after a day of exercise—with more to come. Although we may have been checking-out of Auberge Saint-Antoine, the adventures didn't stop there.
First stop, Saint Lawrence River. Hop aboard the AML Louis Jolliet. It's a very short walk from Vieux-Port.
Quebec City, Quebec
Are you ready for some breathtaking panoramic views of Québec City, Lévis, Montmorency Falls and Île d'Orléans?
Quebec City, Quebec
