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

Should you visit Providence or Quebec City?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Providence and Quebec City. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Providence

Providence is a friendly, fascinating, and active city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Providence 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.

Providence and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Providence or Quebec City?

You'll generally find more things to do in Quebec City than Providence. Quebec City is bigger than Providence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Quebec City is more touristy than Providence and is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Providence different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Providence
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.


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

Providence
Quebec City

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

Eat your way through Quebec City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Providence makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

Is Providence or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Providence
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Providence 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 Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

Is Providence or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Providence
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Providence 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.

Providence does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Providence or Quebec City?

Providence
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a great destination for shopping. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Is Providence or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Providence
Quebec City

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

Providence is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Providence or Quebec City Better for Families?

Providence
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.


Is Providence or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Providence
Quebec City

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

Quebec City is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

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

Providence
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Providence 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.

Providence is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town for those who want an affordable place to stay.

Is Providence or Quebec City Better for Students?

Providence
Quebec City

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

Providence is a great city to visit as a student. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

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


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

Providence
Quebec City

Providence and Quebec City both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Providence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

Quebec City has a few public transit options. There are buses and ferries around town.

Is Providence or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Providence
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Providence is very walkable. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Providence?

How long in Providence or Quebec City?

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

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

One day in Providence or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating city of Providence. 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 Providence or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fascinating destination of Providence. 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.

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 Providence or Quebec City?

The active city of Providence 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, 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 Providence or Quebec City?

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

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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping 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 Providence?

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

  • Providence Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Providence $245
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Providence is $245, 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 Providence and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Providence $114
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Providence $228
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Providence and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Providence 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 Providence


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: Providence Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Providence $46
    Quebec City $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • Private Airport Transfer TO/FROM Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $32
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $125
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $133
  • Providence to Boston Airport (BOS) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $40
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81

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 Providence or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Providence 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
    Providence $82
    Quebec City $63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $99
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll A Guided Italian Culinary Experience: $150
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll with Italian Dinner: $150

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.
    Providence $26
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Providence

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

  • Providence Downtown and Brown Self Guided App GPS Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Providence Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Providence RI: $15
  • Providence Ghost Tours: Phantoms, Poltergeists, & Pestilence: $24
  • Dark Tales: The Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $30
  • Voices of Resilience: Hidden History of Providence Tour: $30
  • The Creative Capital: An Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $30
  • Benefit Street History Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Providence Ghost Tours: Phantoms, Poltergeists, & Pestilence: $32
  • Dark Tales: Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $35

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
    Providence $13
    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 Providence and Quebec City, we can see that Providence 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 Providence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Providence 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 Providence Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Providence or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Providence. When comparing the sizes of Providence 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.