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

Should you visit Auckland or Quebec City?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Quebec City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a thrill-seeking, cosmopolitan , and adventurous city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Auckland 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Quebec City travel costs.

Auckland and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Auckland or Quebec City?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Auckland than Quebec City. While Quebec City is larger than Auckland, Auckland has more sights and attractions for tourists. Auckland is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Quebec City attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower. Quebec City is famous for its charming streets and classic Old Town.

How is Auckland different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Auckland
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Quebec City are world-renowned. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.


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

Auckland
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Quebec City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Auckland or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Auckland
Quebec City

Both Auckland and Quebec City have excellent vibes after the sun sets.

Auckland has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

The people in Quebec City know how to have a good time. 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 Auckland or Quebec City Better for Beaches?

Auckland
Quebec City

Auckland is a great destination for its beaches. However, Quebec City is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Quebec City is not a beach destination.


Is Auckland or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Auckland
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Quebec City can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Auckland or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Auckland
Quebec City

Auckland is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Quebec City?

Auckland
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Quebec City draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.


Is Auckland or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Auckland
Quebec City

Quebec City is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Quebec City is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The European atmosphere gives the city a unique beauty with architecture and cobblestone streets that create a fairytale setting.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Auckland or Quebec City Better for Families?

Auckland
Quebec City

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Auckland or Quebec City.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

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.

Is Auckland or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Auckland
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Quebec City 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.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.


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

Auckland
Quebec City

Auckland and Quebec City are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

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.

Is Auckland or Quebec City Better for Students?

Auckland
Quebec City

Auckland is a great destination for students. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

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

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

Auckland
Quebec City

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Auckland and Quebec City.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

You'll find some public transit in Quebec City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and ferries around town.


Is Auckland or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Auckland
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Quebec City?

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

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Auckland. 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 Auckland. 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 Auckland 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 Auckland or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Auckland 2-3 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in Auckland or Quebec City?

Auckland is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

The beautiful city of Quebec City offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Quebec City?

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled big city where you can fill many days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Quebec City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Quebec City, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Auckland or Quebec City?

The cosmopolitan city of Auckland offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Quebec City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Auckland. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Quebec City is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Auckland?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Auckland is $170, 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 Auckland and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Auckland $99
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Auckland $198
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Auckland and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Auckland 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 Auckland


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: Auckland Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Auckland $17
    Quebec City $16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Auckland

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Auckland:


  • Bus from Airport
    $9.47
  • Airport Shuttle
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Auckland

Also for Auckland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Transfer: Auckland to Airport AKL by Business Car: $90
  • Arrival Private Transfer Auckland Airport to North Shore or Henderson Luxury Car: $127
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Auckland Airport AKL to Auckland City : $119
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Auckland Airport AKL to Auckland City by Luxury Van: $112
  • Auckland Airport / CBD luxury passenger transfers : $131
  • Auckland Airport Arrival Transfer (Individuals and Groups): $109
  • Auckland Airport Arrival Transfer to North Shore or Henderson: $127
  • Auckland Airport Private Pickup / Transfer: $83
  • Auckland Airport Private Transfers (To/From Auckland City): $74
  • Auckland Airport Transfers: Auckland Airport AKL to Auckland in Luxury Car: $151
  • Auckland Airport and City Transfers (To or from): $77
  • Auckland City Hotel to Cruise Ship Transfer by SUV: $48

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:

  • YQB Quebec City Airport Cruise Terminal Train Station Transfer: $108
  • YQB Airport Transfer: $111
  • Quebec to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Departure Private Transfer: $96
  • Quebec city private transfer: $105
  • Quebec Airport (YQB) to Downtown private transfer: $115
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $105
  • Québec Jean Lesage International Airport transfer to Club Med: $292
  • Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212
  • Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec city - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $209
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port- Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $122

Is it cheaper to fly into Auckland or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Auckland 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
    Auckland $46
    Quebec City $63
Typical Food Prices in Auckland

For Auckland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Breakfast
    $4.73

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Auckland

For Auckland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Harbour Sailing Cruise with 3-Course Dinner: $93
  • Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner: $101
  • Flavours of the City Walking Food Tour: $101
  • Waiheke Island: Private Sunset Wine Tour & 2 Course Dinner: $392
  • Māori Evening Dinner and Private Show Experience: $519
  • From Kiwi Bird Encounter & 3-Course Dinner Tour: $550

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.
    Auckland $27
    Quebec City $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Auckland

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Auckland's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Auckland Sky Tour (for 2)
    $33
  • Waiheke Island Tour (for 2)
    $119

Tours and Activities in Auckland

For Auckland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Auckland War Memorial Museum Entry Ticket: $9.27
  • Skip the Line: Auckland Museum General Admission Ticket: $9.53
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Auckland's Hidden Stories: $12
  • Maritime Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • Maritime Museum Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14
  • Explore Self Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Vibrosaun Therapy Experience: $18
  • Waitematā Harbour Cruise with Live Commentary: $20
  • Odyssey Sensory Maze Entry Auckland Ticket: $21
  • Auckland Takapuna: Escape Game Adventure: $23
  • Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern: $25
  • Auckland CBD: Escape Game Adventure: $26

Tours and Activities in Quebec City

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

  • Magnificent Montmorency Falls E-Bike Tour: $165
  • Private Québec City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour: $219
  • 4 Hour Scooter Rental in Quebec City Self Guided Urban Adventure: $95
  • A Joyful Christmas: Private Walking Tour in Quebec: $983
  • A Taste of History Walking Tour: $70
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Quebec with Audioguide: $9.56
  • Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec: $20
  • Best of Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide: $38
  • Best of Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide: $41
  • Beyond the Walls E-Bike Tour: $200
  • Certified tours in Quebec City in Mandarin Japanese and French: $176
  • Discover Old Québec and Beyond – 2-Hour Private Driving Tour: $257

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Auckland $13
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Auckland

Also in Auckland, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Waiheke Island: Scenic Island Wine Tour & Local Wine Tasting: $110
  • Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Auckland with 3-Course Vineyard Lunch: $119
  • Ultimate Auckland Experience Full Day Tour with Brewery Lunch : $149
  • Waiheke Island: The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour: $159
  • Kumeu Wine Tour: $164
  • Waiheke Island: Wine Tour & Lunch at Award Winning Venue: $168
  • From Small Group Kumeu Wine Tour with Lunch: $180
  • Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Platter Lunch: $183
  • Piha Waitakere Rainforest Wine Tour from Auckland: $188
  • City Tour with Wine Tasting and Black Sand Beach: $217
  • Auckland City Tour & Kumeu Wine Country Includes Wine Tastings & Lunch : $238
  • Shore Excursion from Auckland - Private Tour & Wine Tasting: $278

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 comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Quebec City, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Auckland is in Pacific and Quebec City is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Auckland or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Auckland 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.