A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Big Sur vs. Quebec City for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Big Sur 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 Big Sur and Quebec City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Big Sur 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Quebec City travel costs.

Big Sur and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Quebec City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Quebec City than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Quebec City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Big Sur is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Quebec City is well known for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac.

How is Big Sur different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Quebec City has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Quebec City is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Quebec City for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Quebec City is not a beach destination.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Quebec City offers plenty to see. 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.

Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Big Sur 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 Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Sur or Quebec City?

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many people travel to Quebec City specifically to go shopping. 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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Big Sur is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in 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.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City Better for Families?

Quebec City is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Both Big Sur and Quebec City are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Sur has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Quebec City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Quebec City is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City Better for Students?

Quebec City is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Sur is not popular with students.

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

Big Sur is not popular with students.

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

Quebec City is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Big Sur or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Big Sur is not a walkable natural area. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Big Sur 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, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Big Sur, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Big Sur. 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 Big Sur. 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 Big Sur 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 Big Sur or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the scenic natural area of Big Sur. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this natural area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Quebec City, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Big Sur or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the remote destination of Big Sur. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This natural area 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.

In Quebec City, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Quebec City has to offer.

Five days in Big Sur or Quebec City?

The scenic natural area of Big Sur offers food. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Big Sur or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Big Sur. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quebec City. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Quebec City. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to 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 Big Sur and Quebec City, we can see that Quebec City is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Quebec City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Quebec City than you might in Big Sur.

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