For many North Americans, traveling to Europe and visiting France is an expensive endeavor. However, we've found an alternative where you can soak up the unique French charm without leaving the continent.

Below, we'll tell you about stunning places in Canada where traces of the first French settlers are still visible, the streets smell of croissants, and the people speak French. So, pack your suitcase, read these helpful details about travel insurance coverage, and book your flight.

Old Québec

Never heard of Old Québec? You're missing out on the stunning streets and unique atmosphere of the 17th–19th centuries. Believe it or not, the charm remains. The area took its place in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our must-see destination:

● Château Frontenac. A stunning and pompous hotel that is the pride of the entire city.

● Petit-Champlain. It is an authentic, oldest shopping district with a unique charm.

● Ancient fortress walls. The only remaining one in Canada.

Tip: For those seeking comfort and coziness, we recommend visiting one of the many coffee shops and bakeries where they sell the best baguettes in all of Canada. Be sure to plan your trip in winter, as then you'll find stunning markets that look like they came straight out of a Christmas card.

Montréal

Montréal will be a true discovery. In contrast to Old Québec, it has French roots that constantly evolve and renew its cultural heritage. There's plenty to see here for both lovers of the old and those who appreciate a more modern take on French values. Here's a list of places you definitely need to visit:

● Plateau-Mont-Royal. Tourists flock there for its bohemian atmosphere, stunning street art, and intimate bookstores.

● Mile End. We highly recommend this area for all lovers of sweets and pastries. While visiting the local design studios, don't forget to indulge in the famous, legendary bagels and stop by the local bakeries.

● Old Montréal. It is the best place for walking. Plan a leisurely exploration of the cobbled streets, visit the piers, and admire the ancient architecture.

There are also regular theater performances here. It's incredibly picturesque in winter, and in summer, numerous street festivals offer a glimpse of French-Canadian heritage.

Québec's Rural Villages

Want to experience how the locals live? Then it's best to get away from the bustle of Québec and visit the surrounding countryside. Enjoy the rural way of life, learn about crafts, and appreciate the genuine hospitality of the locals.

Our top 3 villages include:

● Tadoussac: one of the oldest settlements, where you can also spot whales in the ocean.

● Baie-Saint-Paul: a small town where crafts and art are actively developed.

● Île d'Orléans: here, all tourists will be shown the amazing farming culture, offered the opportunity to taste local wine in wineries, and then visit maple farms.

A bonus will be the fascinating legends told by locals, which capture the spirit of an old era.

Festivals and Cultural Events

Do you love noisy and vibrant events? Then you should consider attending festivals. We've highlighted a list of must-see cultural experiences for you:

● Festival d'été de Québec – a summer music event for everyone.

● Montréal en Lumière is a Christmas celebration full of lights, delicious food, and art displays.

● Fête Nationale brings together the Francophone population to celebrate unity and support.

You can almost always find a cultural program. Even if there's no festival, you can always go to the theater.

Québec's Culinary Landscape

We understand the local cuisine as a vibrant mix of French traditions, with a Canadian twist. The recipes here are very ancient. Therefore, you should definitely try them.

We highly recommend trying these culinary masterpieces:

● Tourtière—a fragrant meat pie.

● Poutine—a hearty dish combining potatoes, cheese, and gravy.

● Artisan cheeses—try the special, soft, aromatic ones.

● Apple and ice cider—a special drink that's truly one-of-a-kind.

When visiting Canada, in addition to French and traditional local dishes, tourists always try pancakes with maple syrup. It is the region's signature dish.

Art, Museums, and Living French Culture

The places where you can see art can truly amaze you. You'll find works by talented people with an apparent French influence.

Among must-see museums and places for growth and inspiration, we would highlight the following:

● Musée de la civilisation. Here you can learn about the province's history and Canada's Indigenous population.

● Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec. The galleries feature works by local artists.

● Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. A place housing beautiful works of international and Francophone art.

It's worth noting that art isn't only found in museums. Travelers will find examples of art right on the streets, in beautiful local theaters, and at colorful street events.

Québec as North America's French Soul

We were amazed when we delved deeper into the history and attractions of Québec. Here, art and culture are not only preserved to this day, but are constantly developing and evolving, taking on new forms.

For a more complete immersion, we recommend learning a few French phrases, sampling local delicacies, visiting key historical sites, and exploring local museums. After enjoying the city, you can head to the suburbs, where there's plenty to see for inspiration.

Where to Experience True French Culture in Québec