A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albuquerque vs. Halifax for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Albuquerque or Halifax?

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 Halifax. 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 traditional, cosmopolitan, and cultural town. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Albuquerque travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a cultural, historical, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Halifax travel costs.

Albuquerque and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Albuquerque or Halifax?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Albuquerque than Halifax, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Albuquerque is popular for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes. It is also home to The Old Town. Halifax is popular for its maritime past.

How is Albuquerque different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Halifax 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 Halifax?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Albuquerque is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Albuquerque can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


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

Albuquerque
Halifax

Albuquerque is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Albuquerque or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Albuquerque
Halifax

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Albuquerque and Halifax.

If you're looking for night time activities Albuquerque has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Halifax. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Albuquerque or Halifax Better for its Old Town?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Albuquerque is renowned for its historic old town. However, Halifax does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Albuquerque is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Halifax does not have a historic old town.


Is Albuquerque or Halifax Better for Hiking?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Albuquerque is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albuquerque or Halifax?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Albuquerque is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Albuquerque. 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.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Albuquerque or Halifax Better for Families?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Both Albuquerque and Halifax are good family-friendly destinations.

Albuquerque offers lots of family activities. 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.

Halifax is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


Is Albuquerque or Halifax Better for Couples?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Albuquerque is a very popular place for romance. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Albuquerque makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Halifax makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Albuquerque or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Halifax is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Halifax. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Halifax Better for Students?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Albuquerque is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Halifax is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Albuquerque. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Halifax is not popular with students.


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

Albuquerque
Halifax

Halifax is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Albuquerque is not known for its public transit.

While Halifax offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

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 Halifax a more walkable city?

Albuquerque
Halifax

Albuquerque and Halifax are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Halifax is a somewhat walkable place. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Albuquerque?

How long in Albuquerque or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Albuquerque and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Albuquerque than in Halifax. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Albuquerque, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

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

Couples should spend more time in Albuquerque than Halifax. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Albuquerque that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albuquerque than Halifax 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 Albuquerque.


  • How many days in Albuquerque or Halifax? Ideal Length of Stay
    Albuquerque 2-4 
    Halifax 2-3

One day in Albuquerque or Halifax?

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Halifax. 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 Halifax?

In Albuquerque, 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 Albuquerque has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Halifax. 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 Halifax?

Albuquerque 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.

The friendly city of Halifax 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.

A week in Albuquerque or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albuquerque. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Albuquerque. 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax 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
    Halifax Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Albuquerque $165
    Halifax $137

The average daily cost (per person) in Albuquerque is $165, while the average daily cost in Halifax is $137. 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 Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albuquerque $69
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albuquerque $138
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Albuquerque and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Albuquerque or Halifax? 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 Halifax


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 Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albuquerque $37
    Halifax $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Balloon Fiesta Albuquerque 2024 transfers: $625
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Albuquerque International Sunport Private Transfer: $196
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Halifax

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Halifax Stanfield Airport YHZ: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Albuquerque or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax 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
    Halifax $54

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: $80

Typical Food Prices in Halifax

For Halifax, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Bluenose II Restaurant
    $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Halifax

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

  • Peggy's Cove Small Group Night Tour with Dinner: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albuquerque $24
    Halifax $28

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • A Food and Art Walking Tour through Old Town ABQ: $120
  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • 4pm Private Ghost Tour of Old Town Albuquerque: $67
  • 6pm Private Ghost Tour of Old Town Albuquerque: $81
  • 8pm Private Ghost Tour of Old Town Albuquerque : $94
  • Albuquerque Desert Shadows Rising Ghost Tour: $24
  • Albuquerque Desert Shadows Rising Ghost Tour: $26
  • Albuquerque Family Adventure: A Private Discovery Tour: $935
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $49
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Albuquerque Snowshoe Experience: $159
  • 10pm Late Night RATED "R" Ghost Tour Ages 18+: $38

Tours and Activities in Halifax

For Halifax, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • From Peggy's Cove Bus Tour: $75
  • Halifax City Sightseeing by Private a/c vehicle: $151
  • Halifax Guided Driving Tour with Sunset at Peggy’s Cove: $64
  • Halifax Harbourfront Food Walking Tour: $92
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • 2-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Tour: $94
  • 2-Hour Sea-Doo Sightseeing Tour: $254
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Georges Island Kayak Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albuquerque $20
    Halifax $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Halifax

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Halifax:

  • Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Lead by a Sommelier: $168


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Albuquerque and Halifax, we can see that Albuquerque is more expensive. And not only is Halifax much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Halifax would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Halifax 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 Albuquerque would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Albuquerque than you might in Halifax.

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


Which is Bigger, Albuquerque or Halifax?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Halifax. When comparing the sizes of Albuquerque and Halifax, 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.