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

Should you visit Anchorage or Saskatoon?

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 Saskatoon 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 scenic, breathtaking, and cultural city. You'll find world class beauty in Anchorage as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Anchorage travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a cultural, friendly, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Anchorage and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Anchorage or Saskatoon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Anchorage than Saskatoon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Anchorage is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Saskatoon attracts visitors for its nightlife. Anchorage is more touristy than Saskatoon and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. It is also well known for Chugach State Park. Saskatoon is famous for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Anchorage different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Both Anchorage and Saskatoon have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Anchorage is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Saskatoon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.


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

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Dining out at restaurants in both Anchorage and Saskatoon can be an enjoyable experience.

Anchorage offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Saskatoon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is Anchorage or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saskatoon. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

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 Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Anchorage is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Anchorage or Saskatoon?

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Both Anchorage and Saskatoon are nice shopping destinations.

Anchorage is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saskatoon. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is Anchorage or Saskatoon More Beautiful?

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Anchorage as well. The city offers access to spectacular beauty. It's surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, breathtaking glaciers, and vast wilderness.

Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Anchorage or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Both Anchorage and Saskatoon are nice to visit with kids.

Anchorage is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly city. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.


Is Anchorage or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Anchorage is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Saskatoon is a good city for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.

Is Anchorage or Saskatoon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Anchorage is a good destination for backpackers. However, Saskatoon is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.

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

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system 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 Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Anchorage
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Saskatoon is somewhat walkable. The downtown is walkable 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 Saskatoon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Anchorage?

How long in Anchorage or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Anchorage and Saskatoon. In our opinion, Anchorage has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Anchorage than Saskatoon. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Anchorage than Saskatoon 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 Anchorage.


  • How many days in Anchorage or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Anchorage 1-3 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Anchorage or Saskatoon?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Saskatoon. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saskatoon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Anchorage or Saskatoon?

You'll find museums and food around the cultural destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the nature-oriented city of Anchorage. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Saskatoon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Anchorage or Saskatoon?

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Saskatoon is a popular choice for travelers. 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 The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or Anchorage?

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

  • Anchorage Prices
    USA Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Anchorage $228
    Saskatoon $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Anchorage is $228, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $149. 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 Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Anchorage $117
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Anchorage $234
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Anchorage and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Anchorage or Saskatoon? 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 Saskatoon


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 Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Anchorage $27
    Saskatoon $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • One Way Private Transfer: $10
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Anchorage to Whittier Direct Transfer Tour: $75
  • ANC Airport to City Centre Private Transfer: $79
  • Private Transfer Alaska Anchorage Airport ANC to Anchorage City: $180
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
  • Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • Matanuska Glacier Hike with Transfers: $299

Is it cheaper to fly into Anchorage or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon 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 $87
    Saskatoon $54
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: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Anchorage $30
    Saskatoon $17
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:

  • Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
  • Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
  • Alaska Native Heritage Center Admission Ticket: $30
  • Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage's Winter City Tour = Samples + Stops + WildLife: $59
  • 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: $69
  • Winter - Anchorage All Around City Tour: $69
  • Alaska: Ladies Only Snowshoe Adventure: $75
  • Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure: $79
  • Anchorage to Seward Wildlife Adventure: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Anchorage $20
    Saskatoon $9.60

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $110
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey, Wine Tasting: $310


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Anchorage and Saskatoon, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. And not only is Saskatoon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saskatoon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saskatoon 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 Saskatoon.

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


Which is Bigger, Anchorage or Saskatoon?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Saskatoon. When comparing the sizes of Anchorage and Saskatoon, 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.