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

Should you visit South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City, 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.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. The famous beauty of South Lake Tahoe is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Quebec City

Quebec City is a cultural, charming, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Quebec City is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Quebec City travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Quebec City. Although South Lake Tahoe and Quebec City are popular destinations, Quebec City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Quebec City is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while South Lake Tahoe attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. South Lake Tahoe is famous for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. Quebec City is famous for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also well known for Château Frontenac.

How is South Lake Tahoe different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

South Lake Tahoe is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Quebec City is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Quebec City is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Quebec City are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

While most people don't head to South Lake Tahoe specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Is the Food Better in South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

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

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

South Lake Tahoe is very popular for nightlife. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

South Lake Tahoe is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for Resorts?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

South Lake Tahoe is a great destination for its resorts. However, Quebec City is not a resort destination.

South Lake Tahoe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Quebec City is not a resort destination.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe does not have a historic old town.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, South Lake Tahoe draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Quebec City make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City More Beautiful?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of South Lake Tahoe is one of the main draws. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

The beauty of Quebec City is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The European atmosphere gives the city a unique beauty with architecture and cobblestone streets that create a fairytale setting.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

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

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

South Lake Tahoe and Quebec City are both amazing to visit as a couple.

South Lake Tahoe has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Quebec City is a great town 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.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

Quebec City is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Quebec City is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

South Lake Tahoe is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City Better for Students?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

Quebec City is a nice place to visit for students. However, South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.


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

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

Quebec City is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town 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 South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Is South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City a more walkable city?

South Lake Tahoe
Quebec City

Quebec City is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

South Lake Tahoe is a very walkable destination. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or South Lake Tahoe?

How long in South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for South Lake Tahoe, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

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

Couples should spend more time in Quebec City than South Lake Tahoe. 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 South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the breathtaking town of South Lake Tahoe. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the breathtaking destination of South Lake Tahoe. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the historical 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 South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the idyllic town of South Lake Tahoe. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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 South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting South Lake Tahoe. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 South Lake Tahoe?

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

  • South Lake Tahoe Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    South Lake Tahoe $146
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in South Lake Tahoe is $146, 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 South Lake Tahoe and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    South Lake Tahoe $54
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    South Lake Tahoe $108
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in South Lake Tahoe and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe


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: South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    South Lake Tahoe $24
    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:

  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port to Quebec - Arrival Private Transfer: $74
  • Private Transfer from Québec City to Jean Lesage Airport (YQB): $96
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $96
  • From Grosse Île Tour & Cruise + Bus Transfer: $104
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $105
  • Quebec city private transfer: $105
  • From Quebec City : Cruise & Visit to Grosse-Ile with bus transfer: $106
  • YQB Quebec City Airport Cruise Terminal Train Station Transfer: $108
  • YQB Airport Transfer: $110
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City to YQB airport: $110
  • Quebec Airport (YQB) to Downtown private transfer: $115
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe $66
    Quebec City $63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in South Lake Tahoe

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in South Lake Tahoe.

  • Persian Cooking Class with Private Chef: $120
  • Lake Tahoe Evening Dinner Cruise: $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
  • 5-course Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour: $207
  • Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City: $207
  • Private Food Tour in Quebec With A Local Guide : $263

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    South Lake Tahoe $56
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • Ultimate Lake Tahoe Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Public Sauna Experience at Tahoe Vista Recreation Area: $40
  • Lake Tahoe: Full Day Self-Guided Bike Tour: $69
  • Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley: $70
  • Sunset Kayak Tour in Tahoe City: $75
  • Sunset Kayak Experience in South Lake Tahoe: $75
  • Virginia City Day Tour From Lake Tahoe with Train Ride: $80
  • Lake Tahoe's West Shore Best Shore Kayak Tour: $80
  • Scenic and Wild Nature tour in South Lake Tahoe: $85
  • Lake Tahoe East Shore Trail 2-Hour Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $90
  • Tahoe National Forest Moonlight Snowshoe Tour Under a Starry Sky: $90
  • Lake Tahoe: Daytime Scenic Cruise: $99

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: $9.56
  • 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
  • Death in New-France Animated Guided Tour in Québec: $20
  • Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec: $20
  • Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    South Lake Tahoe $34
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in South Lake Tahoe

Also in South Lake Tahoe, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Scavenger Adventure and Lake Tahoe Bar Crawl: $15
  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150

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 comparing the travel costs between South Lake Tahoe and Quebec City, we can see that Quebec City is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is South Lake Tahoe Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, South Lake Tahoe or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of South Lake Tahoe 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.