One of the city’s most unique features is the 4.6km (2.9-mile) rampart encircling the Old Town, making it the only walled city north of Mexico. It is possible for one to walk along the top of the fortifications, which offer sweeping views of the city and the St Lawrence River.

Near the Citadel, at Porte St-Louis (one of the four surviving city gates) is the Center d’interprétation des Fortifications-de-Québec, which includes displays on the city’s history. It is the departure point for 90-minute guided tours (from June to mid-October) by costumed Parks Canada staff and is also the best place for self-guided walkers to set off from.