Petit-Champlain is one of Québec City’s most famous neighbourhoods thanks to its distinctly European look and its popular galleries, restaurants and shops. The historic stone buildings that line the street are home to some of the best shopping in town and this is what draws in the crowds. Peruse handmade items from local designers including jewellery, leather craft and clothing.
Climb the 59 steps of the Escalier Casse-Cou. The steps have been dubbed the “breakneck steps” due to their extreme steepness. Take care when climbing the stairs and give yourself time to rest. When you emerge at the top you’ll find yourself at Côte de la Montagne with views across the city. At night the sea of lights beneath you is breathtaking.
Admire the detail of the trompe l’oeil mural that adorns the side of 102 Rue du Petit-Champlain. The enormous painting shows many of the city’s key moments in history, including bombings and landslides. Be sure to look for the notable figures shown in the windows, including the city’s founder and the man the district is named after, Samuel de Champlain. The windows seem to project a real light through them.
Stop by number 16 to see the restored home of Louis Jolliet, the explorer that first mapped the Mississippi River. The house doubles as the terminal of the cable car that joins the Upper and Lower parts of Old Québec.
Take this cable car to reach Petit-Champlain, located beneath the cliff-top Château Frontenac. A staircase also leads up the cliff and is a great way to get your heart pumping.
Petit-Champlain is a pedestrianised precinct so there is no parking, but the Gare du Palais transport hub is just a short walk away. While you can visit the neighbourhood daily be sure to check the opening hours of local stores as they all differ.
