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

Should you visit Ocean City or Quebec City?

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

Should I visit Ocean City 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.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a active, energetic, and fun-filled city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Ocean City 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Quebec City travel costs.

Ocean City and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ocean City or Quebec City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Quebec City than Ocean City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Quebec City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ocean City is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Ocean City is more touristy than Quebec City and is known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Quebec City is well known for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac.

How is Ocean City different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Quebec City on the map. 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.

While most people don't head to Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

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

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ocean City 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Ocean City. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

Is Ocean City or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Both Ocean City and Quebec City are very good when it comes to partying.

Ocean City offers plenty to do in the evening. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

Quebec City has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Ocean City or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

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

Ocean City is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Is Ocean City or Quebec City Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Ocean City. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Quebec City is not a beach destination.

Is Ocean City or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Ocean City does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Quebec City is revered around 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.

Ocean City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Quebec City?

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

Quebec City is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Quebec City is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ocean City or Quebec City Better for Families?

Ocean City is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Ocean City is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Quebec City is very family-friendly. 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 Ocean City or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Quebec City is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Ocean City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

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

Quebec City is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Ocean City is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Quebec City is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Ocean City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in the area, but there are some affordable motels if you look beyond the beachfront properties.

Is Ocean City or Quebec City Better for Students?

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

Ocean City is not popular with students.

Is Ocean City 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, Ocean City 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 Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Is Ocean City or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

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

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Ocean City or Quebec City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Ocean City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Ocean City than Quebec City. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ocean City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Quebec City than Ocean City. 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 Ocean City 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 Ocean City or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back city of Ocean City. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Quebec City, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the energetic destination of Ocean City. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Quebec City, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Ocean City or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled city of Ocean City. 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Ocean City or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ocean City. 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 city.

Quebec City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to 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 Ocean City and Quebec City, we can see that Ocean City 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 Ocean City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ocean City 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 Ocean City Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City 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.