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

Should you visit Moab or Quebec City?

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

Should I visit Moab 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.

Moab

Moab is a adventurous, active, and scenic town. The famous beauty of Moab is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking and shopping. See Moab 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Quebec City travel costs.

Moab and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Moab or Quebec City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Quebec City. Although Moab 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 Moab is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Moab is more touristy than Quebec City and is popular for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. Quebec City is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also home to Château Frontenac.

How is Moab different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for its historical sights. However, Moab is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Quebec City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Moab offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.


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

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Moab is not a good destination for its local cuisine and 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 Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is Moab or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is great for nightlife. However, Moab is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Quebec City for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Moab specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.

Is Moab or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for its historic old town. However, Moab 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.

Moab does not have a historic old town.


Is Moab or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Moab
Quebec City

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

Known for its hiking, Moab draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Moab or Quebec City?

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for shopping. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Quebec City. 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.

Moab offers some nice shopping areas. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.

Is Moab or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Moab
Quebec City

Moab 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 Moab is one of the main draws. The desert landscapes and unique geological features make this a fascinating and beautiful area to explore. The dramatic arches in Arches National Park tell a unique story of how the geology of the area has changed.

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 Moab or Quebec City Better for Families?

Moab
Quebec City

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

Moab is a very family-friendly destination. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

Quebec City is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Moab or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for romance. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Moab is a very popular place to visit for couples. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.

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

Moab
Quebec City

For backpackers, both Moab and Quebec City are very good places to visit.

Moab is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

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


Is Moab or Quebec City Better for Students?

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Moab is not popular with students.

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

Moab is not popular with students.

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

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Moab is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Quebec City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

Is Moab or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Moab
Quebec City

Quebec City is very popular for its walkability. However, Moab is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Moab is generally not very walkable. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.


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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Moab?

How long in Moab or Quebec City?

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

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

One day in Moab or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping when visiting the active town of Moab. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Quebec City. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Moab or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping when visiting the active destination of Moab. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Moab or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping when visiting the scenic town of Moab. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Quebec City. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Moab or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the shopping when visiting Moab. 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.

The charming city of Quebec City offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.


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 Moab?

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

  • Moab Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Moab $416
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Moab is $416, 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 Moab and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Moab $336
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Moab $672
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Moab and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Moab 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 Moab


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: Moab Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Moab $17
    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:

  • Québec Jean Lesage International Airport transfer to Club Med: $292
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Hotels to Saguenay Cruise Port: $262
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Quebec: $249
  • Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $209
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port to Quebec - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $149
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $122
  • Private Departure Transfer to Quebec Airport YQB: $120
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Quebec Airport YQB: $120
  • Quebec Airport (YQB) to Downtown private transfer: $115
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City to YQB airport: $111
  • YQB Airport Transfer: $111

Is it cheaper to fly into Moab or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Moab 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
    Moab $64
    Quebec City $63
Typical Food Prices in Moab

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Moab:


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

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

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $108

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.
    Moab $3.13
    Quebec City $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moab.

  • Arches National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self Guided Audio Tour Bundle for Utah's Mighty Five: $30
  • Utah Mighty 5 National Parks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tours: $33
  • BEST! Hell's Revenge U-Drive 4X4 Tour in Moab +Dinosaur Tracks!: $48
  • Hell's Revenge 4x4 Off-Roading Tour from Moab: $49
  • US Classic Southwest Adventure Self Guided Audio Tours: $72
  • 30+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • BEST! Catacomb *CAVES* U-Drive 4X4 UTV Tour in Moab +Petroglyphs!: $89
  • Flatwater Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour on Colorado River: $95
  • Hell's Revenge Hummer Adventure: $97
  • Moab’s Original Hummer Adventure: Hell’s Revenge Trail Experience: $99
  • Moab’s #1 Rated Guided U-Drive Hell’s Revenge Off-Road Tour: $99

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
  • Private Québec City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour: $219
  • 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: $200
  • Certified tours in Quebec City in Mandarin Japanese and French: $176
  • Discover Old Québec and Beyond – 2-Hour Private Driving Tour: $257

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Moab $66
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Moab and Quebec City, we can see that Moab 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 Moab would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Moab 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 Moab Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Moab or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Moab 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.