Vieux-Québec: Haute-Ville (Upper Town)

Nestled under the wing of the magnificent Château Frontenac, hotels in this area may not compare in size or reputation, but can offer oodles of personal service and historical charm.

Best For -- Visitors who want the full visual effect of staying in a wonderland setting.

Drawbacks -- Because of high demand in this coveted area near the "castle," prices can be expensive for what they offer.

Vieux-Québec: Basse-Ville (Lower Town)/Vieux-Port

Lower town is more or less an extension of the Upper Town, separated by a photogenic bluff that divides the two areas. A funiculaire conveniently connects the two areas, or you can take the stairs at L'éscalier casse-cou (Breakneck Steps), which is not as scary or steep as it may sound.

Best For -- Discerning travelers who gravitate toward small hotels that are big on luxury.

Drawbacks -- Certain areas during off season can seem empty and lonely.

Parliament Hill (on or near Grande-Allée)

A flat land that extends away from Vieux-Québec, the area includes green spaces Battlefield Park and the Plains of Abraham, as well as the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec near the posh Mont Calm residential neighborhood.

Best For -- Travelers who have rented a car, or those attending events in the area.

Drawbacks -- The lack of variety. Accommodations in the area may have more of a generic feel than the character options in Vieux-Québec.

St-Roch

Until 10 years ago, there were few reasons for travelers to include Québec's St-Roch neighborhood in their plans, but that's changing. Young restaurateurs, artists, media techies, and fashionistas have settled in and dubbed the area "Le Nouvo St-Roch" (proper spelling would be too traditional). Pronunciation, however, is simple: "Saint-Rock." Another up-and-coming area is Limoilou (after Jacques Cartier's manor in France), but let's revisit this area in another 5 years. Urban locals down with style convene in this up-and-coming neighborhood that is growing with new boutiques and restaurants even as we speak.

Best For -- Fashion or media society who can't bother scouting hotel options when they know this is where they need to be.

Drawbacks -- While close to Vieux-Québec by car, St-Roch is slightly removed from the main attractions -- unless, of course, St-Roch is central to your itinerary.

Just Outside the City

Sometimes, yes, it happens that visitors to Québec City are not here for the century-old sights in the historic center. These hotels offer great accommodations for those with other activities on their travel agenda.

Best For -- Travelers who are interested in golf, shopping, or First Nations culture.

Drawbacks -- Obviously it can be a bit of a trek if your interests lie in Québec City.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.