A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albuquerque vs. Quebec City for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque 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.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a outdoorsy, desert, and historic town. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Albuquerque 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.

Albuquerque and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Albuquerque or Quebec City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Quebec City. Although Albuquerque and Quebec City are roughly the same size, Quebec City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Quebec City is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Albuquerque is known for its hiking and quaint atmosphere. Quebec City is more touristy than Albuquerque and is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also home to Château Frontenac. Albuquerque is popular for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Albuquerque different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Albuquerque
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.


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

Albuquerque
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Albuquerque. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Is Albuquerque or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for nightlife. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Is Albuquerque or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Albuquerque and Quebec City.

The rich history of Albuquerque can be explored in its historical center. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

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.


Is Albuquerque or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

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

Albuquerque has hiking trails worth exploring. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albuquerque or Quebec City?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Albuquerque 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.

Albuquerque is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Is Albuquerque or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

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

Albuquerque is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Albuquerque or Quebec City Better for Families?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

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

Quebec City is a very family-friendly destination. There are tons of kid-friendly activities like visiting the Aquarium du Québec, having an adventure at Terrasse Dufferin, or exploring Chute de Montmorency.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Is Albuquerque or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

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.

Albuquerque is a very popular place to visit for couples. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

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

Albuquerque
Quebec City

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

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.


Is Albuquerque or Quebec City Better for Students?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

For students, both Albuquerque and Quebec City are good places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Albuquerque. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

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

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

Albuquerque
Quebec City

Quebec City is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Is Albuquerque or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Albuquerque
Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.


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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Albuquerque?

How long in Albuquerque or Quebec City?

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

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

One day in Albuquerque or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the traditional town of Albuquerque. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Albuquerque or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Albuquerque. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Quebec City. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Five days in Albuquerque or Quebec City?

The historic town of Albuquerque offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

The historical city of Quebec City offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.


A week in Albuquerque or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Albuquerque. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Quebec City. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Albuquerque?

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

  • Albuquerque Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Albuquerque $165
    Quebec City $150

The average daily cost (per person) in Albuquerque is $165, while the average daily cost in Quebec City is $150. 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 Albuquerque and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albuquerque $69
    Quebec City $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albuquerque $138
    Quebec City $144
Compare Hotels in Albuquerque and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque


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: Albuquerque Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albuquerque $37
    Quebec City $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Albuquerque International Sunport Private Transfer: $196
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Balloon Fiesta Albuquerque 2024 transfers: $625
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Quebec City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Quebec City are as follows:


  • Parking in Quebec City
    $3.58

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 Airport (YQB) to Saguenay Port: $248
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Hotels to Saguenay Cruise Port: $248
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Quebec: $241
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $198
  • Quebec to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Departure Private Transfer: $170
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port to Quebec - Arrival Private Transfer: $170
  • Quebec Airport (YQB) to Downtown private transfer: $116
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $114
  • YQB Airport Transfer: $110
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $109
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Albuquerque or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Albuquerque 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
    Albuquerque $71
    Quebec City $63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

  • Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

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: $62
  • Quebecois Aperitif Food Tour in Quebec City: $62
  • Québec City: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing: $127
  • Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour: $204
  • Old Quebec 5-Course Gourmet Food Tour: $204
  • 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: $207
  • Private Street Food Tour in Quebec With A Local Guide : $250

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albuquerque $24
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • Historic Old Town Albuquerque smart phone App/Audio Walking Tour: $7.95
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Albuquerque by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Albuquerque by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket: $20
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Old Town Albuquerque Ghost Tour: $24
  • Old Town Hauntings of the Wild West Ghost Tour: $24
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Duke City Pedaler: Beverage Tour to Old Town/Sawmill Albuquerque : $32
  • 8pm Original Ghost Tour of Old Town: $32
  • 12pm Old Town History, Legends & Lore Tour: $32
  • The Ghost Tour of Old Town - New Mexico's oldest Ghost Walk - Since 2001: $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: $146
  • Private Québec City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour: $219
  • 2-Hour Christmas Magic Tour in Old Quebec: $29
  • 4 Hour Scooter Rental in Quebec City Self Guided Urban Adventure: $94
  • A Taste of History Walking Tour: $70
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Quebec with Audioguide: $9.10
  • 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 Private E-Bike Tour: $183
  • Electric Fatbike Tour in Québec City: $110
  • Electric Scooter Guided Tour of Quebec City: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albuquerque $20
    Quebec City $18

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: $95
  • Montmorency Falls and Microbrewery eBike Tour: $109
  • Montmorency Falls and Microbrewery eBike Tour: $125


When comparing the travel costs between Albuquerque and Quebec City, we can see that Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Albuquerque or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Albuquerque. When comparing the sizes of Albuquerque 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.