Welcome to
Quebec City,
QC
A taste of Europe in Canada
Runners, you have arrived to Quebec City, Quebec.
You’ve logged your kilometres and earned your badges — now it’s time to pause, soak it all in, and enjoy one of the most charming cities in Canada.
The word “Kébec” is derived from the Algonquin word meaning “where the river narrows,” a fitting name for the oldest permanent settlement in the country. With its cobblestone streets and old-world architecture, Quebec City feels like stepping into a European postcard — without ever leaving Canada.
Start your visit with a meal overlooking the mighty St. Lawrence River, then stretch your legs around Place Royale and Rue du Petit-Champlain. You’ll feel the history under your feet as you explore the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Canada’s most treasured gems.
Climb the winding streets and city walls that once protected the old town. With every step upward, the views grow more spectacular — stone buildings, waving flags, and the wide river below. At the top, you’ll find the iconic Château Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world. It may look like a castle out of a storybook, but it was never a royal home — just an unforgettable part of Quebec’s skyline.
Quebec is Canada’s largest province — three times the size of France — yet much of it remains untouched wilderness. It boasts over half a million lakes and 4,500 rivers, making canoeing a favorite pastime year-round, even when winter brings ice canoeing into the mix. In fact, the province sees an average snowfall of 342 cm (135 inches) per year — no wonder it’s a hub for winter sports and cozy cafés.
Fun fact: Quebec produces nearly 90% of the world’s maple syrup. Sweet, right?
Don’t miss the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, the oldest Catholic parish in North America. Built in 1647, it features a golden baldachin that echoes the one in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The city is also home to Université Laval, founded in 1852 — the oldest French-language university in the Americas.
Before lacing up again, take a short detour to Montmorency Falls, just minutes outside the city. At 30 metres taller than Niagara Falls, it’s a breathtaking sight. Walk across the suspension bridge, zipline over the water, or climb the many stairs for a full-body experience you won’t forget.
The province of Quebec produces almost 90% of all maple syrup in the world.
The Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral in the city’s Old Town is the oldest Catholic parish in North America; the Basilica-Cathedral stands on the same site it’s been on since it was first built in 1647.
Inside, Notre-Dame de Québec has a golden baldachin over the altar and tabernacle that looks like a miniature version of the one in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
The Université Laval was founded in 1852. It is regarded as both the oldest educational institution in Canada and the first French-language university in the Americas.
Before going back to your running, let’s take a small detour. Just a few minutes outside of the city is a sight you can’t miss, the Montmorency Falls, which are 30 metres higher than Niagara Falls.
Quebec City will leave you with full lungs, full legs, and a full heart. It’s a place you’ll carry with you long after the journey continues.
Next stop: Montreal — just 276 km to go.
Bonne course, and happy running!
Photo credits: @quebeccite Instagram
@jackephillips Montmorency Falls@bks.der Old Québec
@vinceboies Québec City from a sailboat
@travel_with_anann Fall reflection on the Jacques-Cartier River
Next Stop - Montreal, QC
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