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

Should you visit Bangor 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 Bangor 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.

Bangor

Bangor is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Bangor 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Quebec City travel costs.

Bangor and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Bangor or Quebec City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Quebec City than Bangor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Quebec City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is more popular for its small town charm. Quebec City is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac. Bangor is well known for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bangor
Quebec City

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

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.

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.


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

Bangor
Quebec City

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

Many restaurants in Quebec City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Bangor or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Quebec City offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Bangor or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Quebec City?

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Is Bangor or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bangor or Quebec City Better for Families?

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Bangor is a family-friendly town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.


Is Bangor or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town 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.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

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

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town 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.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

Is Bangor or Quebec City Better for Students?

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is a city with good options for students. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not popular with students.


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

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Bangor is not a good town 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 mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Is Bangor or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Bangor
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Bangor is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Bangor 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, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Bangor, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Bangor. 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 Bangor. 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 Bangor 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 Bangor or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangor 1-2 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in Bangor or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the welcoming town of Bangor. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Bangor or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Bangor. This town 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bangor or Quebec City?

The friendly town of Bangor offers museums and food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quebec City. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bangor or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Bangor. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Quebec City. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Bangor?

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

  • Bangor Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bangor $237
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $237, 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 Bangor and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Bangor 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 Bangor


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: Bangor Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Quebec City $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $210

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: $75
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $96
  • Private Transfer from Québec City to Jean Lesage Airport (YQB): $96
  • From Grosse Île Tour & Cruise + Bus Transfer: $104
  • Quebec city private transfer: $105
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $106
  • From Quebec City : Cruise & Visit to Grosse-Ile with bus transfer: $107
  • YQB Quebec City Airport Cruise Terminal Train Station Transfer: $108
  • YQB Airport Transfer: $111
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City to YQB airport: $111
  • Quebec Airport (YQB) to Downtown private transfer: $115
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $122

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Bangor 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
    Bangor $93
    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: $208
  • 5-course Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour: $208
  • Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City: $208
  • Private Food Tour in Quebec With A Local Guide : $265

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Quebec City $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Tours and Activities in Quebec City

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

  • APP Self-Guided Tours Quebec with Audioguide: $9.62
  • 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
  • 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
  • Guided tour from the bee to the bottle and tasting - French: $21
  • Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Quebec City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Quebec City:

  • 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


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


Which is Bigger, Bangor or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Bangor 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.