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

Should you visit Clearwater or Quebec City?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Quebec City. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and relaxing coastal city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Clearwater travel costs.

Quebec City

Quebec City is a historical, cultural, and charming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Quebec City is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Quebec City travel costs.

Clearwater and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 Clearwater or Quebec City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Quebec City than Clearwater, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Quebec City is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Clearwater is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Quebec City is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also home to Château Frontenac.

How is Clearwater different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Quebec City that are not to be missed. 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.

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.


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

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Clearwater has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Is Clearwater or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is notable for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Quebec City has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Is Clearwater or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Quebec City

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

Clearwater is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Quebec City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Quebec City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Quebec City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Quebec City Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Clearwater is very popular for its beaches. However, Quebec City is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Clearwater are among the best in the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Quebec City is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Quebec City is revered around 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.

Clearwater does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Quebec City?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Quebec City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Is Clearwater or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Quebec City Better for Families?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Both Clearwater and Quebec City are great family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Quebec City is very family-friendly. 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 Clearwater or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its romantic activities.

Quebec City is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Clearwater makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Quebec City. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or Quebec City Better for Students?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is a good destination for students. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not popular with students.


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

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is a good destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city 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 Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Is Clearwater or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Quebec City?

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

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Clearwater. 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 Clearwater. 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in Clearwater or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled coastal city of Clearwater. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Quebec City, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Clearwater or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Clearwater. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Quebec City, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Clearwater or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the beautiful coastal city of Clearwater. 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Clearwater. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Quebec City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking 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 Clearwater?

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

  • Clearwater Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Clearwater $343
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $343, 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 Clearwater and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater 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 Clearwater


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: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Quebec City $16

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 Clearwater or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Clearwater 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
    Clearwater $79
    Quebec City $63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Clearwater

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

  • Clearwater Beach Fun and Tropical Food Tour: $99
  • Clearwater Beach: Tropical Delights Walking Food Tour: $106
  • Taste of Downtown St Petersburg-A Walking/Food Tour: $115

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.
    Clearwater -
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Clearwater by Operation City Quest: $10
  • St Petersburg Ultimate (ALL-IN-ONE) City Trolley Tour : $25
  • Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Clearwater; Aspirations Winery Tour and Tasting Experience: $27
  • Happy Hour Cruise: $27
  • Dolphin Watching Intercoastal Cruise: $27
  • Clearwater Beach Tiki Getaway Cruise BYOB: $27
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphin & Island Sandbar Cruise: $28
  • Clearwater Beach: Sunset and Harbor Lights Cruise: $28
  • Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach: $28
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphin-Watching Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour from Hubbard's Marina in John's Pass: $29

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
    Clearwater -
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $25

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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.