A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Key West vs. Quebec City for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Key West or Quebec City?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a bustling, active, and lively town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Key West 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.

Key West and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Quebec City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Quebec City. Although Key West 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, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Key West attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is more touristy than Quebec City and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Quebec City is famous for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also well known for Château Frontenac.

How is Key West different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Quebec City is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Quebec City is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Is Key West or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Key West and Quebec City.

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Quebec City has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Key West or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

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

Key West is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Quebec City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Key West has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Quebec City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Quebec City Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Key West. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Quebec City is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Quebec City is renowned for its old town. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Quebec City?

Quebec City is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Key West and Quebec City are somewhat similar when it comes to the very good scenery.

The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

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.

Is Key West or Quebec City Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Quebec City.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Quebec City is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Is Key West or Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Quebec City is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Quebec City is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Quebec City Better for Students?

Key West is a great destination for students. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Key West is a great town to visit as a student. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

It's common for students to visit Quebec City. It's a beautiful and charming city that is fun for international students.

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

Quebec City is a popular place for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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 quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Quebec City is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Key West?

How long in Key West or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Key West or Quebec City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Key West due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Key West. 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 Key West. 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 Key West 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.

One day in Key West or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back town of Key West. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

The beautiful city of Quebec City offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the active destination of Key West. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Quebec City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Quebec City, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the quaint town of Key West. 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 is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Quebec City is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Quebec City, we can see that Key West 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West 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 Key West Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Quebec City?

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