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

Should you visit Beijing 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 Beijing 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Beijing 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Quebec City travel costs.

Beijing 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
  • Home to the Forbidden City
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Beijing or Quebec City?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Quebec City. Beijing is bigger than Quebec City, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is better known for its big city activities, while Quebec City is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Quebec City and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Quebec City is well known for its charming streets and classic Old Town.

How is Beijing different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beijing
Quebec City

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Beijing or Quebec City.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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.


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

Beijing
Quebec City

Dining out at restaurants in both Beijing and Quebec City can be an enjoyable experience.

Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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.

Is Beijing or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Beijing
Quebec City

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Quebec City has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

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 Beijing or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Beijing
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Quebec City?

Beijing
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Quebec City is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Beijing or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Beijing
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Beijing or Quebec City Better for Families?

Beijing
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Quebec City is known to be 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.


Is Beijing or Quebec City Better for Couples?

Beijing
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

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

Beijing
Quebec City

Beijing and Quebec City are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

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.

Is Beijing or Quebec City Better for Students?

Beijing
Quebec City

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

Beijing is a great city to visit as a student. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

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


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

Beijing
Quebec City

Beijing is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Beijing is fairly effecient and thorough. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

While Quebec City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries around town.

Is Beijing or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Beijing
Quebec City

Quebec City is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Beijing or Quebec City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Beijing due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-4 days is enough time in Quebec City.

Families should spend more time in Quebec City than Beijing. 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 Beijing. 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 Beijing 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 Beijing or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beijing 3-7 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in Beijing or Quebec City?

Beijing is a historic 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 Beijing or Quebec City?

Beijing is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Beijing or Quebec City?

Beijing is a historic city where you can fill many days. 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 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 Beijing or Quebec City?

Beijing is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Beijing?

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

  • Beijing Prices
    China Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beijing $91
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Beijing is $91, 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 Beijing and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beijing $40
    Quebec City $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beijing $80
    Quebec City $144
Compare Hotels in Beijing and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Beijing 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 Beijing


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: Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beijing $7.84
    Quebec City $16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Beijing

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


  • Taxi
    $4.79
  • Train from Airport for Two
    $7.02
  • Taxi to Hotel
    $8.42
  • 2 Metro Passes
    $2.25
  • Metro
    $0.56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Beijing

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Beijing:

  • Jinshanling Great Wall Self-hiking Tour by Private Transfer Service : $98
  • Private English Transfer to Shilin Gorge Platform And Ming City Wall : $140
  • Private One-Way Transfer Between Beijing Railway Station and Hotel: $30
  • Private Transfer to Daxing International Airport : $35
  • 1 Day Pass for Universal Beijing and Private Transfer Package: $265
  • 1-Day Beijing Layover Private Tour: Forbidden City with Round Airport transfers: $198
  • 1-Day Bejing Layover Tour:Mutianyu Great Wall,Forbidden City & Airport Transfers: $250
  • 4-Hour Huanghuacheng Great Wall Sunset Tour with Airport Transfer: $160
  • 5 Hours Round Trip Transfer Service to Mutianyu Great Wall: $70
  • Acrobatic Show at Red Theater With Private Transfer: $45
  • Acrobatics Show with Private Driver Service and Hotel Round Transfer: $75
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Capital Airport PEK to Beijing in Business Car: $73

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Quebec City

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


  • Parking in Quebec City
    $3.62

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: $99
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Quebec: $232
  • Le Terminal Quebec Port to Quebec city - Arrival Private Transfer: $99
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Quebec Airport YQB: $120
  • Private Departure Transfer to Quebec Airport YQB: $120
  • Private Transfer from Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec City: $52
  • Private Transfer from Québec City to Jean Lesage Airport (YQB): $52
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Airport (YQB) to Saguenay Port: $94
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Hotels to Saguenay Cruise Port: $94
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City to YQB airport: $99
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $99
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Beijing or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Beijing 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
    Beijing $34
    Quebec City $63
Typical Food Prices in Beijing

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beijing:


  • Popcorn
    $0.84
  • Hot Pot Dinner
    $7.02
  • Dumpling Breakfast for Two
    $2.81
  • Watermelon
    $1.96
  • Peking Duck Dinner for 2
    $17
  • Two Popsicles
    $0.84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Beijing

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

  • Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings and Cuisine by Sunflowerli Renowned Chef : $20
  • Online Cooking Class Handmade Noodles by Sunflower Li: $20
  • Online Cooking Class Kungpao Chicken: $20
  • Online Cooking Class Orange Chicken by Sunflower Li: $20
  • Beijing Acrobatic Show Tickets w/ Optional Dinner or Transfer: $48
  • 3.5-Hour Walking Food Tour: A Bite of History at Beijing Niujie Street: $49
  • Temple of Heaven Private Tour w/Option Show &Dinner: $54
  • Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
  • Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
  • Shichahai Golden Season Dinner & Beer Walking Tour: $68
  • Shichahai Golden Season Dinner & Beer Walking Tour: $68
  • Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour with Beer and Tastings: $75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Quebec City

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

  • Quebec: Christmas River Cruise with Dinner and Live DJ: $143
  • Old Quebec 5-Course Gourmet Food Tour: $185
  • Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City: $190
  • Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City: $190
  • Private Street Food Tour in Quebec With A Local Guide : $244

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

Here are a few typical costs in Beijing for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Entry to Summer Palace for Two
    $8.42
  • Two Opera Tickets
    $60
  • Temple of Heaven Park Entrance (for 2)
    $9.82
  • Forbidden City (for 2)
    $17
  • Forbidden City Tickets
    $17
  • Audio Guides at Forbidden City
    $11

Tours and Activities in Beijing

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

  • Shanghai: Happy Valley Theme Park Entry Ticket: $0.12
  • Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City (Guided Tour): $0.12
  • TIAN AN MEN SQUARE AND FORBIDDEN CITY (guided tour): $0.12
  • Tiananmen Square Discovery Tour: $2.99
  • Tiananmen Square - Registration Ticket: $3.00
  • Forbidden City and Royal Museum Tour with Options: $4.38
  • Tiananmen Square Ticket Fast and Smooth: $4.96
  • Beijing's Old Hutongs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Beijing: $5.51
  • China eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $6.56
  • Temple of Heaven Ticket Booking: $6.80
  • Beijing Lama Temple Entrance Ticket with Optional Guided Service: $7.00

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: $4.41
  • Old Quebec Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $4.43
  • Walking Tour - Quebec City - The Heart of New France: $6.60
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Quebec with Audioguide: $8.87
  • Observatoire de la Capitale Entry Ticket: $11
  • Quebec: La Citadelle de Québec Ticket and Guided Tour: $16
  • MNBAQ National Fine Arts Museum Entry Ticket: $17
  • Quebec: Crimes of New France Animated Walking Tour: $18
  • Quebec: Christmas Interactive Walking Tour of New France: $18
  • Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Guided Tour: $18
  • Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec: $18
  • Immersion Quebec: Virtual Reality Experience of Quebec City's History: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beijing $12
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Beijing

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

  • Private Tour-Drum Tower, Hutong Food Taste and Local Brewery Beer: $150
  • 5-Hour Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour from Beijing: $178

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: $49
  • Quebec City Craft Brewery and Beer Tasting Small-Group Tour: $60
  • Island of Orleans Wine Tour: $89
  • Wine Tasting on Ile d'Orleans: $91


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Quebec City, we can see that Quebec City is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Quebec City is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Quebec City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Quebec City than you might in Beijing.

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


Which is Bigger, Beijing or Quebec City?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Quebec City. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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.