The 2nd-most populous of Canada's 13 provinces, French-speaking Quebec is like a country all of its own. Here, centuries of history, boundless entertainment, fine cuisine and a chic cafe culture collide – particularly within its vibrant cities. There's skyscraping Montreal, known for its elegant old district and fashionably vibrant Latin Quarter, and Quebec City, equally famed for its quaint cobbled old town, and fairytale-like skyline. Beyond the sophistication, creature comforts and plush Quebec vacation rentals, the province boasts a breathtaking natural landscape, from the craggy coasts of the Gaspe Peninsula, to the glittering ski slopes of the Laurentian and Appalachian Mountains.
Choosing between a Quebec vacation rental in Quebec City or Montreal is a tough one, but both cities boast a slew of attractions. Quebec City has its old town – a fortified, living museum, with its cobbled lanes, quaint facades and centuries-old churches, all reminiscent of old-world Europe. Dotted throughout the district are chic sidewalk cafes, bistros and elegant squares – all overlooked by the enormous Le Chateau Frontenac. Montreal's old town is no less impressive. Packed with ornate 17th-century architecture, it exudes romance, and is home to the staggeringly opulent Notre-Dame Basilica – known for its Gothic Revival architecture and gilded interior.
Both Quebec City and Montreal boast an array of city experiences, whether you want to hunt for luxury fashion along a chic boulevard, gorge on 5-star cuisine in an award-winning restaurant, or check out the province's world-class museums and cultural hubs. In Montreal's sassy Latin Quarter, there's some energetic nightlife to be had, while exploring characterful Old Quebec's pretty plazas, cobbled lanes and historical gems should keep you busy too. Outside, the province's landscape lends itself to a variety of outdoorsy pursuits, from hunting and fishing, to hiking, wildlife watching, whale watching and golf – and, come winter, skiing too.
The most prominent areas in Quebec are situated in the southern and western portions of the province, which both have a continental climate with 4 regular seasons. Summers are generally warm, reaching into the high 70s, while in winter temperatures plummet. If you're here to ski in one of the resorts dotted about the Laurentian and Appalachian Mountains, the wintertime is your best bet for booking your Quebec vacation rental. The ski season runs from late November through to April, and sometimes carries on into May.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just want to appreciate the scenery, you'll be sure to find the perfect setting for your vacation in Quebec. These are some of the area's most eye-catching natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
The nearest airport is in Quebec City Jean Lesage Intl. Airport (YQB), located 8.4 mi (13.5 km) from the city center.
If you prefer to travel by train, Quebec Palace Station, Quebec, QC (XFY-Sainte-Foy Train Station) and Quebec Sainte-Foy Station are the main stations in the area. You can get around Quebec by catching a ride on the metro at Repentigny Station, Pointe-aux-Trembles Station or Mascouche Station.
If you're partial to the idea of opening your balcony door to glorious views of the ocean, head for Sandy Beach in Hudson. Check out our beachfront vacation rentals here and spend a couple of blissful days strolling along the shoreline and dozing off to the sounds of crashing waves.