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

Should you visit Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a under-rated, lively, and youthful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Jacksonville 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Quebec City travel costs.

Jacksonville and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Quebec City?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Quebec City than Jacksonville. While Jacksonville is larger than Quebec City, Quebec City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Quebec City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jacksonville is more popular for its beaches. Quebec City is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area.

How is Jacksonville different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Jacksonville offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.


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

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Jacksonville makes for a great culinary experience. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

Is Jacksonville or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Both Jacksonville and Quebec City have great vibes after the sun sets.

Jacksonville has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

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.

Is Jacksonville or Quebec City Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Jacksonville. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Quebec City is not a beach destination.


Is Jacksonville or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Jacksonville does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Quebec City is one of the most recognized in 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.

Jacksonville does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Quebec City?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Jacksonville is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Is Jacksonville or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Jacksonville or Quebec City Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is renowned for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

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

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.


Is Jacksonville or Quebec City Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Both Jacksonville and Quebec City are notable destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

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

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

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Jacksonville and Quebec City.

Jacksonville has some public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

You'll find some public transit in Quebec City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and ferries around town.

Is Jacksonville or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Quebec City

Quebec City is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.


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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Quebec City?

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

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

One day in Jacksonville or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Jacksonville. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the lively destination of Jacksonville. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Quebec City is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Quebec City?

The fun city of Jacksonville offers shopping and museums. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Jacksonville or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Jacksonville. 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.

Quebec City is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Jacksonville?

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

  • Jacksonville Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jacksonville $289
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $289, 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 Jacksonville and Quebec City in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville


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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Quebec City $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

Also for Jacksonville, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Jacksonville Airport to Casa Monica Resort and Spa Transfer: $189
  • Car Transfer Jacksonville Airport to The Cloister at Sea Island: $199
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Jacksonville Airport JAX to Jacksonville Arrival Private Transfer: $134
  • Jacksonville Airport Limo Transfer to Hammock Beach Golf Resort: $275
  • Jacksonville Airport Private Lux Car Transfer to Downtown Hotels: $139
  • Jacksonville to Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville - Departure Private Transfer: $159
  • Luxury Car Transfer JAX Airport to Margaritaville Beach Hotel: $155
  • Luxury Car Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Ponte Vedra Resorts: $145
  • Miami: One Way To/From Airport Transfer: $78
  • Private Transfer JAX Airport to Ritz Carlton Amelia Island: $135
  • Private Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Carnival Cruise Port: $135

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:

  • YQB Quebec City Airport Cruise Terminal Train Station Transfer: $108
  • YQB Airport Transfer: $110
  • Quebec city private transfer: $105
  • Quebec Airport (YQB) to Downtown private transfer: $115
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $105
  • Québec Jean Lesage International Airport transfer to Club Med: $292
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $208
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $120
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City to YQB airport: $110
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Hotels to Saguenay Cruise Port: $260
  • Private Transfer from Québec City to Jean Lesage Airport (YQB): $96
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $96

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $166
    Quebec City $63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $20
  • San Marco Food Tour Culinary Journey in Jacksonville: $125

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
  • 5-course Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour: $207
  • Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City: $207
  • Private Food Tour in Quebec With A Local Guide : $263

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $8.00
  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour: $8.60
  • Scenic A1A Byway Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Main Event Improv Comedy Ticket: $17
  • Murray Hill Walking Mural Tour: $25
  • Specters of the Spanish Moss: Jacksonville Ghost Tour: $26
  • Bike Ride Through Ponte Vedra Beach Private Tour Florida: $27
  • Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • Jacksonville FL: Ortega River Kayak Rental Adventure: $40
  • Self-Guided Kayaking: Real Florida Adventure: $45
  • Electric Bike Tour with Free Application for Navigation: $50

Tours and Activities in Quebec City

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

  • Magnificent Montmorency Falls E-Bike Tour: $165
  • 4 Hour Scooter Rental in Quebec City Self Guided Urban Adventure: $95
  • A Joyful Christmas: Private Walking Tour in Quebec: $983
  • A Taste of History Walking Tour: $70
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Quebec with Audioguide: $9.56
  • Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec: $20
  • Best of Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide: $38
  • Best of Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide: $41
  • Beyond the Walls E-Bike Tour: $198
  • Certified tours in Quebec City in Mandarin Japanese and French: $176
  • Death in New-France Animated Guided Tour in Québec: $20
  • Electric Fatbike Tour in Québec City: $110

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

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

  • All-Inclusive Sips & Ships: Downtown Pub Crawl: $75
  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135

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


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Quebec City?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of Quebec City. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville 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.