Quebec City is not only the capital of Canada's Quebec province - it's also one of the oldest cities in North America. Founded in 1608 by noted explorer Samuel de Champlain, today's Quebec boasts some of the only remaining fortification walls on the continent of North America. If architecture is your thing, Quebec City is a place you don't want to miss. And even if it's not, there's plenty to do and see.

Where to Visit

For the aforementioned architecture buffs, a visit to Vieux-Québec will provide visitors with wonderful examples of 17th-, 18th- and 19th-century buildings and structures, as well as the rich history of Quebec City. One notable stop is the Château Frontenac, a National Historic Site of Canada and world-famous hotel.

The Aquarium du Québec is home to 300 species of marine mammals, birds, amphibians, fish, reptiles and other aquatic creatures. Snap photos of sea life large and small with something handy like the Easy-Macro lens band, which allows you to take amazing close-up photographs when you stretch it across your iPhone like a rubber band.

A "place of miracles" and popular pilgrimage site, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is located on the Saint Lawrence River. The first miracle was said to have occurred in the late 1650s, while the shrine was in construction. At least 500,000 people visit the basilica every year.

Where to Shop

You can't visit a city that's home to the oldest grocery store in North America without actually going there. J.A. Moisan was founded in 1871 and has offered fine imported goods for discerning shoppers since its opening. These days, it's also a charming Bed & Breakfast.

Laurier offers a "big-name" approach to shopping as the second-largest mall in Canada. Home to almost every major well-known retailer, the mall offers a range of helpful amenities for serious shoppers.

If you happen to be looking for fine reproduction furniture and a wide array of antiques, visit Le Retour du Passé on 1re Ave. Browse the collection of antique lighting, figurines, tools and collectibles while learning more about Quebec's rich heritage.

Where to Eat

For an excellent and eclectic breakfast, visit Café Krieghoff. Located in a charming Bed & Breakfast that's a 10-minute walk from Old Quebec, this cheery café offers affordable and tasty food, and is popular with locals.

L'Échaudé features modern bistro fare in a warm and inviting environment. The seafood is fresh, wine and beer selections are robust, and the desserts are excellent. All this with a friendly and funny wait staff? Oui!

Billed as one of the best restaurants in the entire Quebec province, Initiale offers an eight-course tasting menu that changes seasonally. Indulge yourself after walking around Quebec City all day! Bonus points if you've tracked your steps with the FitBit - the more calories you've burned during the day, the better you'll feel about dessert!

What Do I Need to Travel to Quebec City?