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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Quebec City?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Quebec City?

You'll generally find more things to do in Quebec City than Chattanooga. Quebec City is bigger than Chattanooga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Quebec City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga is more popular for its hiking. Quebec City is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac. Chattanooga is well known for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.


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

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Chattanooga or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Is Chattanooga or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.


Is Chattanooga or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Quebec City?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Chattanooga 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Chattanooga or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Chattanooga or Quebec City Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Chattanooga or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

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

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great destination for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city 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.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.


Is Chattanooga or Quebec City Better for Students?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

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

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

Chattanooga is not popular with students.

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

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Chattanooga is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Chattanooga is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

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

Is Chattanooga or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is very walkable. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

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

One day in Chattanooga or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the thriving city of Chattanooga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A weekend in Chattanooga or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the thriving destination of Chattanooga. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Quebec City. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Five days in Chattanooga or Quebec City?

The bustling city of Chattanooga offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

The cultural city of Quebec City offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Chattanooga or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chattanooga. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Quebec City. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Chattanooga?

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

  • Chattanooga Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chattanooga $225
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $225, 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 Chattanooga and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Quebec City $16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chattanooga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chattanooga:

  • Private One Way Transfer from/to Chattanooga Airport and Hotels: $185

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:

  • From Quebec City : Cruise & Visit to Grosse-Ile with bus transfer: $107
  • From Grosse Île Tour & Cruise + Bus Transfer: $104
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port to Quebec - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port to Quebec - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $149
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Quebec: $249
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $96
  • Private Transfer from Québec City to Jean Lesage Airport (YQB): $96
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Hotels to Saguenay Cruise Port: $262
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City to YQB airport: $111
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $122
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $209
  • Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Chattanooga or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $103
    Quebec City $63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

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

  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • Southside Food Tour with Lunch: $129
  • Downtown Food Tour with 3-4 Tastings: $139

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.
    Chattanooga $52
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

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

  • Chattanooga Blues to Bridges Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga: $14
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $23
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $24
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $30
  • Family Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $30
  • Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over: $31
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $32
  • The Flash City Sightseeing Tour by Trolley: $34
  • The Flash: 1 Hour City Tour : $34

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
    Chattanooga $24
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Chattanooga

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chattanooga:

  • Distillery Tour at Gate 11: $18
  • Chattanooga Wine Tasting with Art Sightseeing Tour: $180

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 Chattanooga and Quebec City, we can see that Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Chattanooga. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga 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.