After a peaceful day immersed in the natural beauty of Jackman, Maine, we packed up and made our way north to Quebec City.

The drive took us through serene forested stretches and quiet border towns, and to our relief, the border crossing was completely uneventful. A quick check of passports, a couple of friendly questions, and we were on our way.

We arrived in Quebec City around 1:30 PM, greeted by the charm and cobblestone elegance that this historic city is known for. Eager to stretch our legs, we set off to explore the Lower Town (Basse-Ville), one of the most picturesque parts of the city.

Our first stop was Place Royale, the heart of Old Quebec and a postcard-perfect square that feels like stepping back in time. Surrounded by centuries-old stone buildings, it’s easy to imagine life here during the early days of French colonization. We wandered slowly, admiring the architecture and pausing to take in the atmosphere.

Just around the corner, we were wowed by the Quebec City Mural (La Fresque des Québécois), a massive trompe-l’oeil artwork that blends history, culture, and art into one breathtaking piece. It’s a must-see, and we spent a while tracing the different characters and eras depicted across its colorful facade.

From there, we strolled along Rue Notre-Dame, a charming street lined with quaint shops, inviting galleries, and cozy cafés. Every turn revealed something new — tucked-away courtyards, whimsical boutiques, and the unmistakable smell of fresh pastries drifting from open doorways. We didn’t have a specific destination in mind, and that turned out to be perfect. Sometimes the best way to discover a city is simply to wander.

Later in the afternoon, we checked in at our Airbnb, which was a few miles outside the bustling core — the perfect spot to relax and recharge before dinner.

In the evening, we went to a nearby local restaurant for dinner. The food was excellent, full of rich, French-inspired flavors that reminded us why Quebec City is such a culinary hotspot. The warm, relaxed atmosphere and friendly service capped off a day that was equal parts exciting and easygoing.

Tomorrow, we plan to dive deeper into Old Quebec and maybe take in some of the upper town sights. But for now, we’re grateful for a seamless travel day and an enchanting first taste of this beautiful city.