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

Should you visit Juneau or Quebec City?

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

Should I visit Juneau 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.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. The famous beauty of Juneau is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Juneau travel costs.

Quebec City

Quebec City is a cultural, charming, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Quebec City is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Quebec City travel costs.

Juneau and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Juneau or Quebec City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Quebec City. Although Juneau and Quebec City are popular destinations, Quebec City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Quebec City is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Juneau attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. Quebec City is famous for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also well known for Château Frontenac.

How is Juneau different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Juneau
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Quebec City are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Many visitors head to Juneau specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.


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

Juneau
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Juneau has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Is Juneau or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Juneau
Quebec City

Quebec City is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Quebec City offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Juneau or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Juneau
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Juneau does not have a historic old town.

Quebec City offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Juneau does not have a historic old town.


Is Juneau or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Juneau
Quebec City

Juneau is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Juneau draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Juneau or Quebec City?

Juneau
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Quebec City make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Is Juneau or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Juneau
Quebec City

Juneau 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 Juneau is one of the main draws. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

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 Juneau or Quebec City Better for Families?

Juneau
Quebec City

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Juneau or Quebec City.

Juneau is a very kid-friendly city. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

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.

Is Juneau or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Juneau
Quebec City

With fun activities for couples, both Juneau and Quebec City make for a fantastic place to visit.

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

For those traveling as a couple, Quebec City has plenty to offer. It's one of the most European city's in North America, and it's filled with romance. Couples can enjoy exploring the Old Town by carriage or taking a boat ride on the Saint Lawrence River. For a truly romantic evening, enjoy a French meal at the famous Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, but for many couples, simply exploring and soaking up the city's charm offers the simple romance that they're looking for.

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

Juneau
Quebec City

Both Juneau and Quebec City are very good destinations for backpackers.

Juneau is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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.


Is Juneau or Quebec City Better for Students?

Juneau
Quebec City

Quebec City is a popular place for students. However, Juneau 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.

Juneau is not popular with students.

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

Juneau
Quebec City

Quebec City is a popular place for its public transit. However, Juneau is not a good 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Is Juneau or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Juneau
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Juneau is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.


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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Juneau?

How long in Juneau or Quebec City?

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

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

One day in Juneau or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic city of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Juneau or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the breathtaking destination of Juneau. 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.

Quebec City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Juneau or Quebec City?

The historic city of Juneau offers museums and food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quebec City. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Juneau or Quebec City?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Quebec City. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Juneau?

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

  • Juneau Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Juneau $196
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Juneau is $196, 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 Juneau and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Juneau $88
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Juneau $176
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Juneau and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Juneau 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 Juneau


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: Juneau Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Juneau $38
    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 Juneau or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Juneau 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
    Juneau $85
    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: $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.
    Juneau $17
    Quebec City $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

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

  • City Highlights Bus Tour: $51
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour: $79
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $89
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $123
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $123
  • Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo: $125
  • Tram, Trails and Ale Tour: $125
  • Juneau Highlights and Mendenhall Glacier Tour: $129
  • Alaska Native Tour with Tram Ride and Meal: $145
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $145

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
    Juneau $16
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Juneau

Also in Juneau, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau's Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!: $159
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops: $159

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


Which is Bigger, Juneau or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Juneau 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.