A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Glacier National Park vs. Quebec City for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

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

Should I visit Glacier National Park 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.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and gorgeous park. The famous beauty of Glacier National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Glacier National Park 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.

Glacier National Park and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Quebec City. Although Glacier National Park and Quebec City are both popular with visitors, Quebec City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Quebec City is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Glacier National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Quebec City and is known for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Quebec City is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also home to Château Frontenac.

How is Glacier National Park different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


Is the Food Better in Glacier National Park or Quebec City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is notable for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park 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.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Glacier National Park is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.


Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for its historic old town. However, Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Quebec City has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Glacier National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.


Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park is one of the main draws. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

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 Glacier National Park or Quebec City Better for Families?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Quebec City is 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.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly park. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for romance. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Glacier National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.


Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Glacier National Park is very popular for backpackers. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Glacier National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Many backpackers visit Quebec City. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City Better for Students?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is a popular place for students. However, Glacier National Park 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.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

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

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is a popular place for its public transit. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park 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 Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.


Is Glacier National Park or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Glacier National Park
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park 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.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable park. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Glacier National Park?

How long in Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

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

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

One day in Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning park of Glacier National Park. 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.

In Quebec City, you'll find shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Glacier National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quebec City. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.


Five days in Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

The gorgeous park of Glacier National Park offers . 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.

Quebec City is a fun place to experience. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Glacier National Park. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Quebec City. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle 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 Glacier National Park?

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

  • Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Glacier National Park $148
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Glacier National Park is $148, 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 Glacier National Park and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Glacier National Park $56
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Glacier National Park $112
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Glacier National Park and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park


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: Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Glacier National Park $69
    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: $74
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $96
  • Private Transfer from Québec City to Jean Lesage Airport (YQB): $96
  • Quebec to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Departure Private Transfer: $96
  • From Grosse Île Tour & Cruise + Bus Transfer: $104
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port- Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Le Terminal Quebec Port to Québec Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $104
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $105
  • Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec city - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Quebec city private transfer: $105
  • From Quebec City : Cruise & Visit to Grosse-Ile with bus transfer: $106
  • YQB Quebec City Airport Cruise Terminal Train Station Transfer: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Glacier National Park or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Glacier National Park 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
    Glacier National Park $49
    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: $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.
    Glacier National Park $34
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Many Glacier Self-Guided Audio Tour in Glacier National Park: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park Going-to-the-Sun Road Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park North Fork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $16
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $20
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $159
  • Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure: $219
  • E Bike Tour in Glacier National Park Cammas Road: $229
  • Driving Tour West Glacier National Park (excludes Sun Road): $245
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $250

Tours and Activities in Quebec City

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

  • Quebec City Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $7.70
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Quebec with Audioguide: $9.56
  • 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
  • Private Québec City Scavenger Hunt Experience: $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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Glacier National Park $8.41
    Quebec City $18

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 Glacier National Park and Quebec City, we can see that Quebec City 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. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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