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

Should you visit Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Quebec City or Beaver Creek, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

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.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Quebec City and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

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
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Quebec City. Although Quebec City and Beaver Creek 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, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Beaver Creek is known for its skiing, theatre productions, resorts, and hiking. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Quebec City and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere Quebec City is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also home to Château Frontenac.

How is Quebec City different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very popular for winter skiing. However, Quebec City is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Beaver Creek is among the best in the world. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Quebec City is not a skiing destination.


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

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not so good for theatre. However, Quebec City is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Quebec City is not a theatre destination.

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

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Quebec City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaver Creek. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.


Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Quebec City is a great city for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Beaver Creek has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for its Old Town?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Beaver Creek 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.

Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.


Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Quebec City is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Beaver Creek 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.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek More Beautiful?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

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 Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Quebec City is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Quebec City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Beaver Creek is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

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

Quebec City is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.


Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Quebec City is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek 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.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

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

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Quebec City and Beaver Creek.

You'll find some public transit in Quebec City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and ferries around town.

While Beaver Creek offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Is Quebec City or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Quebec City
Beaver Creek

Quebec City and Beaver Creek both are amazing when exploring on foot.

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

Beaver Creek is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Quebec City?

How long in Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

Both Quebec City and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Quebec City. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Quebec City, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

Couples should spend more time in Quebec City than Beaver Creek. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Quebec City that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Quebec City than Beaver Creek 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 Quebec City or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Quebec City 2-4 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

In Quebec City, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical 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.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the active town of Beaver Creek. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the skiing. 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.

A weekend in Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the active destination of Beaver Creek. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the charming town of Beaver Creek. 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.


A week in Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

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.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the destination of Beaver Creek. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.


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


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Quebec City?

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

  • Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Quebec City $152
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Quebec City is $152, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $378. 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 Quebec City and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Quebec City $73
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Quebec City $146
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Quebec City and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Quebec City or Beaver Creek? 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 Quebec City


Hotels in Beaver Creek


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: Quebec City Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Quebec City $16
    Beaver Creek $30
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 Quebec City or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Quebec City 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
    Quebec City $63
    Beaver Creek $146

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.
    Quebec City $24
    Beaver Creek $53

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
    Quebec City $18
    Beaver Creek $35

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