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

Should you visit Palm Springs or Quebec City?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Palm Springs and Quebec City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Palm Springs 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Quebec City travel costs.

Palm Springs and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • 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
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Quebec City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Quebec City. Although Palm Springs 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, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Palm Springs is known for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Palm Springs is more touristy than Quebec City and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Quebec City is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also home to Château Frontenac.

How is Palm Springs different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palm Springs
Quebec City

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Quebec City that are not to be missed. 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.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.


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

Palm Springs
Quebec City

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

Quebec City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Palm Springs has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Is Palm Springs or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Palm Springs is very popular for nightlife. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

The nightlife in Quebec City has something for everybody. 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 Palm Springs or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Palm Springs is very popular for its resorts. However, Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Palm Springs offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.


Is Palm Springs or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Palm Springs or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Palm Springs is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Quebec City?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

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

Quebec City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Palm Springs is well-known for its shopping. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.


Is Palm Springs or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Quebec City is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Quebec City is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The European atmosphere gives the city a unique beauty with architecture and cobblestone streets that create a fairytale setting.

Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Palm Springs or Quebec City Better for Families?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Palm Springs or Quebec City.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

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 Palm Springs or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.


Is Palm Springs or Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Quebec City is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Quebec City. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

Is Palm Springs or Quebec City Better for Students?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Quebec City is very good for students. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

Palm Springs
Quebec City

Quebec City is very good for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre 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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.


Is Palm Springs or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Palm Springs
Quebec City

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

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

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Palm Springs or Quebec City. In our opinion, Quebec City has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Quebec City than Palm Springs. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Palm Springs or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Palm Springs. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 charming 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 Palm Springs or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. 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 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 Palm Springs or Quebec City?

The outdoorsy city of Palm Springs offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 historical 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 Palm Springs or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages 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 Palm Springs?

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

  • Palm Springs Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Palm Springs $244
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Palm Springs is $244, 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 Palm Springs and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palm Springs $120
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palm Springs $240
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Palm Springs and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs


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: Palm Springs Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palm Springs $52
    Quebec City $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport PSP Departure Transfer: $202
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $215

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 Palm Springs or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $92
    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.
    Palm Springs $29
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

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

  • Joshua Tree's Hidden Valley Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Journey into Joshua Tree Audio Tour and Locals Guide: $15
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour in Joshua Tree National Park: $20
  • Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Audio Tours: $22
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $33
  • Aerial Tramway Round-Trip Ticket: $35
  • 10+ Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas: $45
  • All-In-One California Self-Guided Driving & Walking Bundle Tour: $50

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
    Palm Springs $13
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Palm Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Palm Springs:

  • Palm Springs Bar Crawl: $15

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


Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs 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.