How about… Quebec City (Quebec)?

Quebec City is the second-biggest city in Quebec after Montreal. It’s more family-friendly and arguably closer to nature.

Why should I go to Quebec City?

• Quebec City is a big city with a small-town feel. It’s a great compromise if Montreal is too crowded for you.
• French speakers will find themselves at home, save for a few vocabulary differences. And if you want to work on your French-language skills, this is the place to be, since English takes the back seat.
• The cost of living is lower than in many major Canadian cities. Housing, transportation and entertainment are more affordable.
• Quebec City has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. It’s a lovely historic city with a distinctly European feel.
• It’s also a city close to nature with many parks and easy access to spectacular sites (Montmorency Falls, Jacques Cartier National Park…).
• There are a few direct flights between Quebec City and Europe.

Just keep in mind that…

• The job market is less dynamic than in Montreal or Toronto, and strong French-language skills are pretty much a prerequisite.
• Winters are very cold and summers are very hot.
• Don’t expect vibrant nightlife and tons of activities—Quebec City is more laid-back and family-oriented than “fun.”