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

Should you visit Aspen or Quebec City?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Aspen and Quebec City can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Aspen

Aspen is a authentic, charming, and quaint ski town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Aspen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and live music. See Aspen travel costs.

Quebec City

Quebec City is a charming, historical, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Quebec City attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Quebec City travel costs.

Aspen and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aspen or Quebec City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Quebec City than Aspen, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Quebec City is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Aspen is more popular for its skiing, music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Aspen is well known for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. Quebec City is well known for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac.

How is Aspen different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Skiing?

Aspen is very popular for winter skiing. However, Quebec City is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Aspen is among the best in the world. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Quebec City is not a skiing destination.

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

Quebec City is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Quebec City on the map. 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.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Aspen and Quebec City.

Many restaurants in Aspen have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

Eat your way through Quebec City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Aspen or Quebec City has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

The nightlife in Quebec City has something for everybody. 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.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Music?

Aspen is a great destination for live music. However, Quebec City is not a live music destination.

Aspen has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Quebec City is not a live music destination.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

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

Aspen is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Quebec City is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Aspen does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Quebec City is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Aspen does not have a historic old town.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Aspen 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 Aspen. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aspen or Quebec City?

Quebec City is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Quebec City is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Is Aspen or Quebec City More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Aspen and Quebec City.

With stunning beauty, Aspen attracts visitors from all around. Surrounded by the mountains and set amongst a beautiful natural setting, this town will take your breath away.

Quebec City is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The European atmosphere gives the city a unique beauty with architecture and cobblestone streets that create a fairytale setting.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Families?

Quebec City is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Quebec City is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly activities like visiting the Aquarium du Québec, having an adventure at Terrasse Dufferin, or exploring Chute de Montmorency.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Quebec City is renowned for couples. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Quebec City is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Aspen is a great ski town if you're traveling as a couple. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Quebec City is a great destination for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Quebec City is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.

Is Aspen or Quebec City Better for Students?

Quebec City is a city with good options for students. However, Aspen is not popular with students.

Quebec City is popular with students. It's a beautiful and charming city that is fun for international students.

Aspen is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aspen and Quebec City.

You'll find some public transit in Aspen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

While Quebec City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries around town.

Is Aspen or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Quebec City is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Aspen is very walkable. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Aspen?

How long in Aspen or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Aspen or Quebec City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aspen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Aspen, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Aspen. 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 Aspen. 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 Aspen 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.

One day in Aspen or Quebec City?

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

In Quebec City, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Aspen or Quebec City?

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This ski town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quebec City. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Aspen or Quebec City?

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

Quebec City is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination 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 Aspen or Quebec City?

Since Aspen is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aspen and Quebec City, we can see that Aspen 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 Aspen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aspen 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 Aspen Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Aspen or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Aspen and Quebec City, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.