Lower is along the river, and is the original, older part of town nice restaurants, hotels, the Musee de la Civilisation, etc. You can walk up steep streets or steps to the Upper town (larger, more restaurants/hotels, Chateau de Frontenac, Plains of Abraham, connected to the rest of Quebec) or take the Funicular.

The primary difference between Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville) in Quebec City is their elevation, historical function, and atmosphere. Upper Town is perched atop the towering cliffs of Cape Diamond and was historically the military and administrative center, home to the iconic Château Frontenac, the Citadelle, and various government buildings. It offers sweeping panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and a more formal, grand architectural style. Conversely, Lower Town sits at the foot of the cliffs along the riverbanks and is the site of the original 1608 settlement. It is characterized by narrow, winding cobblestone streets like Petit-Champlain and historic stone houses that once belonged to merchants and sailors. While Upper Town feels majestic and fortified, Lower Town offers a cozy, European "old-world" charm focused on commerce and artisanal shops. The two levels are famously connected by the steep Breakneck Stairs and a convenient funicular.