Basse-Ville (Old Quebec’s Lower Town)
Lower Town, the oldest part of Old Quebec, is clustered on the narrow streets between the ramparts of Upper Town and the Old Port, linked to Upper Town by the funicular, the escalier casse-cou (breakneck stairs) and the steep Côte de la Montagne road. At its centre, Place Royale has been faithfully restored to its former glory, the 17th- and 18th-century houses surrounding the one-time market square now in pristine condition. Located in the historic Hazeur and Smith houses, the Musée de la place Royale has exhibits illustrating the area’s history, while the historic Maison Chevalier recreates domestic scenes from the 17th century. One block over, rue du Petit Champlain is a lively and romantic cobblestone street full of shops and restaurants.
