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

Should you visit Atlanta or Quebec City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta 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.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a cultural, diverse, and sprawling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Atlanta travel costs.

Quebec City

Quebec City is a charming, historical, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Quebec City attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Quebec City travel costs.

Atlanta and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 Atlanta or Quebec City?

You'll generally find more things to do in Quebec City than Atlanta. Quebec City is bigger than Atlanta, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Quebec City is better known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Atlanta is more popular for its big city activities. Quebec City is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Also, Quebec City is famous for Château Frontenac. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement.

How is Atlanta different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Atlanta
Quebec City

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Quebec City and Atlanta.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Atlanta has many famous sights for visitors. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

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.


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

Atlanta
Quebec City

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Quebec City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city offers a mix of Canadian favorites and French dishes with a local twist. Favorite dishes that you must try include tourtières, pâté chinois, pea soup, and fèves au lard. There are also many local desserts to sample. You'll find some of the best French Canadian cuisine in the Old Town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Atlanta makes for a great culinary experience. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Is Atlanta or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Quebec City

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Atlanta and Quebec City.

The nightlife in Atlanta has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

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.

Is Atlanta or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Atlanta
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta 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.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Quebec City?

Atlanta
Quebec City

If you're looking to go shopping, Atlanta and Quebec City both offer plenty of amazing spots.

Many people travel to Atlanta specifically to go shopping. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

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.

Is Atlanta or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Atlanta
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Quebec City attracts visitors from all around. The European atmosphere gives the city a unique beauty with architecture and cobblestone streets that create a fairytale setting.

Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Atlanta or Quebec City Better for Families?

Atlanta
Quebec City

Atlanta and Quebec City are both superb destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

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.


Is Atlanta or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Quebec City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's one of the most European city's in North America, and it's filled with romance. Couples can enjoy exploring the Old Town by carriage or taking a boat ride on the Saint Lawrence River. For a truly romantic evening, enjoy a French meal at the famous Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, but for many couples, simply exploring and soaking up the city's charm offers the simple romance that they're looking for.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

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

Atlanta
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Quebec City. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Atlanta or Quebec City Better for Students?

Atlanta
Quebec City

Atlanta is a great destination for students. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

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


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

Atlanta
Quebec City

Quebec City is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta 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 Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Atlanta or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Quebec City

Quebec City is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Quebec City?

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

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

One day in Atlanta or Quebec City?

Atlanta is a suburban city where you can fill many days. 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.

In Quebec City, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Atlanta or Quebec City?

Atlanta is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. 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.

In Quebec City, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Quebec City has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Quebec City?

The sprawling city of Atlanta offers shopping and museums. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or Quebec City?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quebec City. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Quebec City. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) 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 Atlanta?

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

  • Atlanta Prices
    USA Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlanta $204
    Quebec City $150

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $204, 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 Atlanta and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Quebec City $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Quebec City $144
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta 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 Atlanta


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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Quebec City $16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer Hartsfield Airport ATL to Atlanta by Car: $120
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV: $139
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $102
  • Atlanta International Airport: Transfer to Atlanta City: $70
  • Roundtrip Transfer to Harrah's Cherokee Casino: $75
  • Transfer from DeKalb-Peachtree Airport: $150
  • Transfer from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: $150
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL by SUV: $139
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $139
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport PrivateTransfer : $75

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 Atlanta or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $74
    Quebec City $63
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

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


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

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

  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $90
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Walking Food Tour: $105
  • Atlanta Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Private Atlanta Cooking Class with a Fun Local Chef Naina: $139
  • Prohibition Themed Downtown Atlanta Progressive Dinner: $275

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.
    Atlanta $56
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • Atlanta Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • App-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket: $22
  • Atlanta Braves Baseball Game Tickets at Truist Park: $25
  • Atlanta Walking Mural Tour : $25
  • World of Coca-Cola Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry: $25
  • Skip the Ticket Line: World of Coca-Cola Admission in Atlanta: $25
  • Zoo Atlanta General Admission Ticket: $26
  • Hauntings, Ghouls, and Phantoms Walking Tour: $27
  • Ultimate Atlanta Walking Tour and Activities : $30
  • Martin Luther King Jr An American Icon Walking Tour: $30
  • Midtown Walking Tour on Women's History: $30

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
    Atlanta $17
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120
  • North Georgia Mountains Two Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $155
  • Elijay Hike w/ Waterfall & Wine Tasting Private Tour from ATL: $230
  • Georgia Vineyards Wine Tour: $2,300

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


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Quebec City?

Quebec City has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta 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.