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

Should you visit Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg and Quebec City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Saint Petersburg 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Quebec City travel costs.

Saint Petersburg and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Quebec City than Saint Petersburg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Quebec City is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Saint Petersburg is known for its resorts and beaches. Saint Petersburg is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Quebec City is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also home to Château Frontenac.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Saint Petersburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.


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

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is great for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Quebec City for the nightlife scene. 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 Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

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

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Saint Petersburg is very popular for its beaches. However, Quebec City is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Saint Petersburg are among the best in the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Quebec City is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for its historic old town. However, Saint Petersburg does not have a historic old town.

Quebec City has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Saint Petersburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for shopping. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Saint Petersburg offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.


Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Saint Petersburg or Quebec City.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Quebec City is a very kid-friendly coastal 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.

Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for romance. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.


Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination 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.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City Better for Students?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

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

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination 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 Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.


Is Saint Petersburg or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

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

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

One day in Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the underrated coastal city of Saint Petersburg. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fun-filled destination of Saint Petersburg. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the charming city of Quebec City. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

The fun-filled coastal city of Saint Petersburg offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

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

Quebec City is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises 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 Saint Petersburg?

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

  • Saint Petersburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Petersburg $239
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $239, 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 Saint Petersburg and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Quebec City $16

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 Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $84
    Quebec City $63
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

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


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

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.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Quebec City $24

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
    Saint Petersburg $41
    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 Saint Petersburg and Quebec City, we can see that Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Quebec City?

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