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

Should you visit Anchorage or Quebec City?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Anchorage and Quebec City can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a cultural, artsy, and nature-oriented city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Anchorage and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Anchorage or Quebec City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Quebec City than Anchorage, 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, and big city activities, while Anchorage is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Anchorage is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Quebec City is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. It is also home to Château Frontenac.

How is Anchorage different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Quebec City that are not to be missed. 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.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Quebec City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Anchorage or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

Quebec City offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Anchorage or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Quebec City offers plenty to see. The walled Old Town has fortifications that date back to the 17th century. It has a European charm with cobblestone streets, charming restaurants, beautiful squares, and historic architecture. Many visitors feel like they've stepped into old world Europe.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.


Is Anchorage or Quebec City Better for Hiking?

Anchorage
Quebec City

Anchorage is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Quebec City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Anchorage or Quebec City?

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Quebec City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Anchorage or Quebec City Better for Families?

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Anchorage is a family-friendly city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.


Is Anchorage or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Quebec City is a great city 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.

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

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

Anchorage
Quebec City

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Quebec City. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Plenty of backpackers visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Is Anchorage or Quebec City Better for Students?

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is a city with good options for students. However, Anchorage 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.

Anchorage is not popular with students.


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

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city 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 quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Anchorage or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Anchorage
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Anchorage?

How long in Anchorage or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Anchorage or Quebec City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Quebec City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Anchorage, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Anchorage. 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 Anchorage. 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 Anchorage 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 Anchorage or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Anchorage 1-3 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in Anchorage or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy city of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Quebec City. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Anchorage or Quebec City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the breathtaking destination of Anchorage. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Anchorage or Quebec City?

The artsy city of Anchorage offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Quebec City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Anchorage or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Anchorage. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Quebec City is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Anchorage?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Anchorage is $191, while the average daily cost in Quebec City is $128. 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 Anchorage and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Anchorage $117
    Quebec City $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Anchorage $234
    Quebec City $148
Compare Hotels in Anchorage and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Anchorage 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 Anchorage


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: Anchorage Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Anchorage $27
    Quebec City $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • One Way Private Transfer to/from Savannah Int'l: $64
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $232
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Quebec City

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


  • Parking in Quebec City
    $3.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Quebec City

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Quebec City:

  • Sugar Shack Shuttle Transfer: $23
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $52
  • Private Transfer from Québec City to Jean Lesage Airport (YQB): $52
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $52
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Cruise Port -Arrival Transfer: $58
  • Le Terminal Quebec Port to Québec Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $58
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Airport (YQB) to Saguenay Port: $95
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Hotels to Saguenay Cruise Port: $95
  • Quebec city private transfer: $97
  • Le Terminal Quebec Port to Quebec city - Arrival Private Transfer: $99
  • Quebec to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Departure Private Transfer: $99
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port to Quebec - Arrival Private Transfer: $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Anchorage or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Anchorage 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
    Anchorage $50
    Quebec City $37
Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Anchorage.

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour - Winter & Summer: $190

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Quebec City

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Quebec City.

  • 3 or 5 Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing: $131
  • Old Quebec 5-Course Gourmet Food Tour: $188
  • Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City: $193
  • Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City: $193
  • Private Street Food Tour in Quebec With A Local Guide : $245

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Anchorage $30
    Quebec City $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:

  • Amazing Anchorage Amazing Race & Tour: $24
  • Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
  • Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
  • 1-Hour Trolley Tour: $25
  • Guided Tour of the Alaska Botanical Garden: $45
  • Deluxe Trolley City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Choc Factory Samplings: $59
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $73
  • Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure: $79
  • Gold Panning Self-Guided Tour: $79

Tours and Activities in Quebec City

Here are a few actual costs in Quebec City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Uncover Old Quebec: Fun Walking Tour of the City with Local Guide: $4.47
  • Observatoire de la Capitale Entry Ticket: $11
  • MNBAQ National Fine Arts Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • Québec: Fortifications of Old Québec Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Quebec: La Citadelle de Québec Ticket and Guided Tour: $16
  • Quebec City Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Quebec: Christmas Interactive Walking Tour of New France: $18
  • Quebec: Crimes of New France Animated Walking Tour: $18
  • Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Guided Tour: $19
  • Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec: $19
  • Immersion Quebec: Virtual Reality Experience of Quebec City's History: $19
  • Guided tour from the bee to the bottle and tasting - French: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Anchorage $20
    Quebec City $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Local Honey, Wine Tasting : $285
  • Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey, Wine Tasting: $285

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
  • Quebec City Craft Brewery and Beer Tasting Small-Group Tour: $61
  • Island of Orleans Wine Tour: $90
  • Wine Tasting on Ile d'Orleans: $92


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Anchorage and Quebec City, we can see that Anchorage 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 Anchorage would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Anchorage 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 Anchorage Expensive? and Is Quebec City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Anchorage or Quebec City?

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