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

Should you visit Phoenix or Quebec City?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Quebec City can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a sprawling, desert, and laid back city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Phoenix 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Quebec City travel costs.

Phoenix and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Phoenix or Quebec City?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Quebec City than Phoenix. While Phoenix is larger than Quebec City, Quebec City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Quebec City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Phoenix is more popular for its hiking. Quebec City is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac. Phoenix is well known for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Phoenix different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Quebec City has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.


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

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Quebec City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Phoenix or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Phoenix or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Quebec City offers plenty to see. 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.

Phoenix does not have a historic old town.


Is Phoenix or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Phoenix is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Phoenix has hiking trails worth exploring. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Quebec City?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Quebec City specifically to go shopping. 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.

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Phoenix or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Phoenix or Quebec City Better for Families?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Phoenix or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Quebec City is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

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.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.


Is Phoenix or Quebec City Better for Students?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not popular with students.

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

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Phoenix is not known 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 generally limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Phoenix or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Phoenix
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

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

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.


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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Phoenix 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, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Phoenix, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Phoenix. 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 Phoenix. 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Phoenix 1-3 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in Phoenix or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the desert city of Phoenix. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Quebec City, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Phoenix or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the desert destination of Phoenix. 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.

In Quebec City, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Quebec City has to offer.

Five days in Phoenix or Quebec City?

The laid back city of Phoenix offers shopping and museums. 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.

Quebec City is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Phoenix or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Phoenix. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quebec City. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Quebec City. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Phoenix?

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

  • Phoenix Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Phoenix $276
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Phoenix is $276, 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 Phoenix and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phoenix $144
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phoenix $288
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Phoenix and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Phoenix 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 Phoenix


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: Phoenix Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phoenix $39
    Quebec City $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

Also for Phoenix, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $154
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) Private Transfer: $80
  • Phoenix to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Sky Harbor Airport Private Transfer: $195
  • Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels: $110
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Luxury SUV: $152
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Sedan Car: $125

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:

  • 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
  • Quebec Airport (YQB) to Downtown private transfer: $115
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City to YQB airport: $111
  • YQB Airport Transfer: $111
  • YQB Quebec City Airport Cruise Terminal Train Station Transfer: $108
  • From Quebec City : Cruise & Visit to Grosse-Ile with bus transfer: $107
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Phoenix or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $90
    Quebec City $63
Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

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


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Secret Food Tours Phoenix: $92
  • Phoenix Food Tour on Trendy Roosevelt Row with 7 Food Tastings: $95
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Old Town Food Tour of Hidden Gems with 6 Food Tastings: $105
  • Sunset at Desert Botanical Garden: Dinner & Walking Tour : $135

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.
    Phoenix $40
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • Old Town Scottsdale's Art District: A Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Scottsdale by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Phoenix Suns Basketball Game Ticket: $10
  • Scottsdale Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket: $18
  • Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting Entry Ticket: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Mesa by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Historic Walking Tour: $25
  • RoRo Street Art Walking Tour: $25
  • Wings of Fire & Whispers of the Desert Phoenix Ghost Tours: $27
  • Drunk Shakespeare Ticket: Phoenix, AZ: $29
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30

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: $166
  • 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: $9.62
  • Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec: $20
  • Best of Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide: $41
  • Best of Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide: $38
  • Beyond the Walls E-Bike Tour: $200
  • Certified tours in Quebec City in Mandarin Japanese and French: $177
  • Electric Fatbike Tour in Québec City: $111

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Phoenix $17
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Phoenix Bar Crawl: $15
  • Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix: $70
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $70
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $189
  • Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix: $200

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


Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Quebec City?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Quebec City. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix 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.