In the heart of Old Quebec, this small shopping neighborhood sits on the banks of the Saint Lawrence River. Shop for kitschy souvenirs and marvel at the array of gourmet foodstuffs—who knew there were so many kinds of maple syrup? Make sure to stop at one of the many cafés or bars before jumping on the funicular (more than a century old) that takes you up to the majestic Château Frontenac. A fun way to enjoy all this neighborhood has to offer is via a walking tour of the Old Quarter.

After visiting Quebec, you’ll be convinced every city should have a public toboggan ride. Each winter, at the doors of the Château Frontenac, the local government mounts a long ramp that anyone brave enough can whizz down. The toboggan has gorgeous views of the river, though you probably won’t notice them once your wooden sled starts its quick descent to ground level.

The battle over Quebec between the English and French lasted for decades. This is where the British defeated the French and officially took control over the walled city, though Quebec still retains much of its French character. Nowadays, the Plains of Abraham serves as a recreational space for both tourists and locals alike. After enjoying a picnic and the view of the river, learn about the battle and the involvement of First Nations at the on-site museum.

In recent years, Quebec City has become a destination for art lovers, thanks to new galleries and a rising creative, bohemian vibe. Start at the Galerie Art Inuit Brousseau in the old city, where you’ll see magnificent carvings by Indigenous Canadians from the far north of the country. Then, visit Galerie Perreault near the central train station for contemporary paintings. Finally, check out Galerie d'Art Urbania or Galerie 3, both outside the Old City, for exciting cultural and art exhibitions.

Besides maple syrup, there’s no culinary staple in Quebec as famous as poutine. The beloved mixture of French fries, gravy, and cheese curds is delicious. At Poutineville, you can even build your own version with unusual toppings like gyro meat, goat cheese, and guacamole. Chase poutine with a sip of apple ice wine, available from some vendors at Marché Saint-Sauveur (a Saturday farmer’s market) or in the Old City at various local shops.

Located a short drive northeast of Quebec City and accessible via a bridge, Orleans Island is a pastoral paradise filled with farms, excellent cheese, and small wine producers. The island was also one of the first areas to see French settlement and still maintains its historic Francophone character. Consider doing either a food tour or wine tour on the island to escape the busy city and enjoy the memorable Quebecois countryside.

With over 62 miles (100 kilometers) of trails, this nature preserve is the perfect place to experience the mountains and woods of Quebec without traveling very far. The entrance to Jacques-Cartier National Park is only 30 minutes from the Old City, though the wilderness stretches on much further. Hike up drumlins (glacial hills), spot moose, and revel in the peaceful birch forests. Go on your own or hire a local guide who can expertly lead the way on a trail tailored to your activity level.

Only a 20-minute drive from the Old City, Montmorency Falls is a spectacular cascade. If you’re feeling active, consider skipping the drive altogether and joining a bike tour to the falls. Once there, make sure to take the cable car from one end of the gulf to the other while looking at the 276-foot (84-meter) cascade. Or, walk across the suspension bridge instead.