A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Adirondack Mountains vs. Quebec City for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a scenic, serene, and pristine region. Adirondack Mountains is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Adirondack Mountains travel costs.

Quebec City

Quebec City is a cultural, charming, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Quebec City is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Quebec City travel costs.

Adirondack Mountains and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Quebec City. Although Adirondack Mountains and Quebec City are popular destinations, Quebec City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Quebec City is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Adirondack Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Adirondack Mountains is famous for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. Quebec City is famous for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also well known for Château Frontenac.

How is Adirondack Mountains different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Quebec City and Adirondack Mountains. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Skiing?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for winter skiing. However, Quebec City is not a skiing destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Quebec City is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Quebec City are among the most recognizable in the world. Historic sites include La Citadelle de Québec and Quebec National Historic Site. There are many iconic buildings in town as well like the Parliament Building and Château Frontenac. Also make sure you visit the Musée de la Civilisation and the stunning Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Adirondack Mountains. You can learn about local culture and heritage at any of the museums in the area. At the Adirondack Experience you can visit a vast campus that offers an open-air experience relating to the region's history. Other educational centers in the area include a wildlife center, several art museums, as well as battlefields, forts, and war museums.

Is the Food Better in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Quebec City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city offers a mix of Canadian favorites and French dishes with a local twist. Favorite dishes that you must try include tourtières, pâté chinois, pea soup, and fèves au lard. There are also many local desserts to sample. You'll find some of the best French Canadian cuisine in the Old Town.

Adirondack Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Steakhouses, pancake shops, and local diners all serve up fresh and local dishes. Many visitors like to pack a picnic that they can enjoy along a hiking trail, but if you're looking for a sit down option, there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its evening party scene.

Quebec City has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene consists mainly of bars and pubs that you'll find along Rue Saint-Jean and in the Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighborhood. You'll also find clubs in Saint-Roch along Rue du Parvis and Avenue Saint-Joseph.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Adirondack Mountains. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its resorts. However, Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Lodges and inns fill with vacationers who enjoy the pools and scenic settings that many of the resorts offer. Many places have a summer camp atmosphere that feels both wholesome and adventurous.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Adirondack Mountains does not have a historic old town.

Quebec City offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The walled Old Town has fortifications that date back to the 17th century. It has a European charm with cobblestone streets, charming restaurants, beautiful squares, and historic architecture. Many visitors feel like they've stepped into old world Europe.

Adirondack Mountains does not have a historic old town.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Adirondack Mountains. Trails range from easy to challenging and each passes through beautiful and diverse landscapes. You can climb to scenic viewpoints or explore pristine forests. It's the perfect way to escape into nature for a bit.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Quebec City make it a world-class shopping destination. The Old Town has many local boutiques and artisan shops that are fun for browsing. There are many shopping streets in town like Petit-Champlain Street, Rue Saint-Joseph, and Avenue Cartier.

Adirondack Mountains has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many of the towns have a "general store" where you can pick up souvenirs or local items. There are also local artisan shops and even outlet malls in the area.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Adirondack Mountains and Quebec City are somewhat similar when it comes to the very good scenery.

The beauty of Adirondack Mountains is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful lakes and waterfalls, serene settings, and striking viewpoints make this a beautiful destination where you can escape into nature.

With stunning beauty, Quebec City attracts visitors from all around. The European atmosphere gives the city a unique beauty with architecture and cobblestone streets that create a fairytale setting.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Families?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City.

Adirondack Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. There area is filled with ropes courses, adventure parks, and hiking trails. There are nature centers with information programs for young ones. The kids will also be a enchanted by the waterfalls as the adults are.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Quebec City. There are tons of kid-friendly activities like visiting the Aquarium du Québec, having an adventure at Terrasse Dufferin, or exploring Chute de Montmorency.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Quebec City makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's one of the most European city's in North America, and it's filled with romance. Couples can enjoy exploring the Old Town by carriage or taking a boat ride on the Saint Lawrence River. For a truly romantic evening, enjoy a French meal at the famous Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, but for many couples, simply exploring and soaking up the city's charm offers the simple romance that they're looking for.

Adirondack Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many lodges and inns that are tucked away in the mountains and make for a romantic retreat. Couples will enjoy the hiking and beautiful views. Whether you spend your time cozied up by the fire or out on an adventure, this is a wonderful romantic destination.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Both Adirondack Mountains and Quebec City are very good destinations for backpackers.

Adirondack Mountains is a great region to visit for backpackers. There are a number of campgrounds and even backcountry camping in the region. The hiking trails and beautiful setting make this a fun place to explore.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Quebec City. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Students?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is a popular place for students. However, Adirondack Mountains is not popular with students.

Quebec City is a good city to visit for students. It's a beautiful and charming city that is fun for international students.

Adirondack Mountains is not popular with students.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is a popular place for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Quebec City has a few public transit options. There are buses and ferries around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Adirondack Mountains. There is no real public transportation in the park.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Adirondack Mountains
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Quebec City on foot. The Old Town is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable region. While there are many hiking trails, to get around and access most destinations, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Quebec City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Adirondack Mountains?

How long in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Adirondack Mountains due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Adirondack Mountains, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Adirondack Mountains. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Quebec City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Quebec City than Adirondack Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Quebec City that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Quebec City than Adirondack Mountains if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Quebec City.


  • How many days in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic region of Adirondack Mountains. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Quebec City. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the serene destination of Adirondack Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Quebec City is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the scenic region of Adirondack Mountains. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many people visit Quebec City for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Quebec City. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Adirondack Mountains. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this region.

The charming destination of Quebec City offers nightlife and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Adirondack Mountains?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Adirondack Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Adirondack Mountains $202
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Adirondack Mountains is $202, while the average daily cost in Quebec City is $152. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Adirondack Mountains and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Adirondack Mountains $97
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Adirondack Mountains $194
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Adirondack Mountains and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Adirondack Mountains


Hotels in Quebec City


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Adirondack Mountains $33
    Quebec City $16

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Quebec City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Quebec City are as follows:


  • Parking in Quebec City
    $3.63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Quebec City

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Quebec City:

  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port to Quebec - Arrival Private Transfer: $74
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $96
  • Private Transfer from Québec City to Jean Lesage Airport (YQB): $96
  • Quebec to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Departure Private Transfer: $96
  • From Grosse Île Tour & Cruise + Bus Transfer: $104
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port- Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Le Terminal Quebec Port to Québec Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $104
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $105
  • Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec city - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Quebec city private transfer: $105
  • From Quebec City : Cruise & Visit to Grosse-Ile with bus transfer: $106
  • YQB Quebec City Airport Cruise Terminal Train Station Transfer: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Adirondack Mountains or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Adirondack Mountains change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Adirondack Mountains $85
    Quebec City $63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Quebec City

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Quebec City.

  • Quebecois Aperitif Food Tour in Quebec City: $61
  • Québec City: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing: $129
  • Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour: $202
  • Old Quebec 5-Course Gourmet Food Tour: $202
  • Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City: $207
  • Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City: $207
  • 5-course Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour: $208
  • Private Food Tour in Quebec With A Local Guide : $263

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Adirondack Mountains $17
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Quebec City

Here are a few actual costs in Quebec City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Quebec City Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $7.70
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Quebec with Audioguide: $9.56
  • Observatoire de la Capitale Entry Ticket: $11
  • MNBAQ National Fine Arts Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Québec: Fortifications-of-Québec Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Old Quebec Walking Tour with a Certified Local Guide: $15
  • Private Québec City Scavenger Hunt Experience: $15
  • Quebec: La Citadelle de Québec Ticket and Guided Tour: $16
  • Guided Tour of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: $18
  • Quebec : Death in New-France Animated Walking tour: $19
  • Quebec: Crimes of New France Animated Walking Tour: $20
  • Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Adirondack Mountains $19
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Quebec City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Quebec City:

  • Quebec City Bar Crawl: $15
  • Honey and Distillery Tour with Tasting: $21
  • Craft Brewery and Beer Tasting Tour: $50
  • Island of Orleans Wine Tour: $94
  • Wine Tasting on Ile d'Orleans: $96
  • Montmorency Falls and Microbrewery eBike Tour: $107
  • Montmorency Falls and Microbrewery eBike Tour: $109


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Adirondack Mountains and Quebec City, we can see that Adirondack Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Quebec City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Quebec City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Quebec City and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Adirondack Mountains would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Adirondack Mountains than you might in Quebec City.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Adirondack Mountains Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.