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

Should you visit Baltimore or Halifax?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Halifax can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a diverse, colorful, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Baltimore travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a historical, friendly, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Halifax travel costs.

Baltimore and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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 Baltimore or Halifax?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore than Halifax. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Baltimore is more touristy than Halifax and is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium. Halifax is famous for its maritime past.

How is Baltimore different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baltimore or Halifax?

Baltimore
Halifax

Baltimore 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 Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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 Baltimore or Halifax? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Halifax

Baltimore 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 Baltimore. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

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 Baltimore or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Halifax

Baltimore is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Baltimore has a large number of nightlife venues. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Halifax?

Baltimore
Halifax

Baltimore 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 Baltimore. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

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


Is Baltimore or Halifax Better for Families?

Baltimore
Halifax

Baltimore is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Baltimore is a very family-friendly destination. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. 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 Baltimore or Halifax Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Halifax

Both Baltimore and Halifax are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Baltimore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Halifax is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Baltimore or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Halifax

Baltimore and Halifax are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

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


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

Baltimore
Halifax

Baltimore is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Baltimore is fairly effecient and thorough. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

You'll find some public transit in Halifax, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

Is Baltimore or Halifax a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Halifax

Baltimore is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Baltimore is very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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 Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Baltimore and Halifax. In our opinion, Baltimore has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Baltimore than Halifax. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore 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 Baltimore.


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

One day in Baltimore or Halifax?

In Baltimore, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Halifax. 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 Baltimore or Halifax?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Halifax. 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 Baltimore or Halifax?

Baltimore is a great place to explore. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Halifax. 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 Baltimore or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baltimore. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baltimore. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Halifax 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax or Baltimore?

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

  • Baltimore Prices
    USA Prices
    Halifax Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Baltimore $217
    Halifax $137

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $217, 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 Baltimore and Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore 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 Baltimore


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: Baltimore Hotel Prices and Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Halifax $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $240
  • Private Transfer from BWI Airport ⇄ Washington DC : $199
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Private Airport Transfer from Baltimore to DCA or vice versa: $300
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $135
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $77
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI: $114
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Transfer: $172
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD and Dulles Airport: $275
  • Airport Transfer Downtown Baltimore to BWI Airport: $160
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Baltimore, MD: $245

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 Baltimore or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax and Baltimore 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
    Baltimore $79
    Halifax $54
Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

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


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

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

  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Baltimore: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Classes at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $78
  • City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise: $125

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.
    Baltimore $18
    Halifax $28

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Assateague Island Cruise Departs from Ocean Pines: $40
  • Baltimore Bewitched: Raven's Revenge, Bones & Ballads Ghost Tour: $32
  • Baltimore Downtown Poe Ruth and More GPS Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Baltimore Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $96
  • Baltimore Ravens Football Game Ticket at M&T Bank Stadium: $109
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $49
  • Baltimore Walking & Driving Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point: $104
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • Baltimore's Historical Sightseeing Tour: $44
  • Baltimore's Private Cultural Tour: $200

Tours and Activities in Halifax

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

  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • Georges Island National Historic Site Ferry Ticket: $16
  • Happy Hour Cruise with Live Music: $21
  • Guided Kayak Tour with Multiple Options: $29
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Party Cruise on the Harbour Queen: $42
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Tall Ship Harbor Sailing Cruise with Live Music: $42
  • Harbour Hopper City & Water Cruise in a Duck Boat: $56
  • Signature Adventure Sail: $56
  • Solar Waterfront Food/Drink Party Bike Experience: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Halifax $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Baltimore Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36

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
  • The Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour: $206


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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Halifax?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Halifax. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore 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.


When is the best time to visit Baltimore or Halifax?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Baltimore or Halifax in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Halifax. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Halifax for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Halifax. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. In the summer, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun.

Baltimore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Halifax. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Halifax 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Baltimore or Halifax in the Autumn?

Both Halifax and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Halifax in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Baltimore is a little warmer than Halifax in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Halifax fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Baltimore usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during autumn. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In October, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Halifax. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Halifax 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Baltimore or Halifax in the Winter?

Both Halifax and Baltimore during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Halifax for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Halifax can be very cold during winter. Baltimore can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Baltimore is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Halifax averages at about -4°C (24°F).

In the winter, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun.

Halifax gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Baltimore usually gets less rain in January than Halifax. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Halifax -4°C (24°F)

Should I visit Baltimore or Halifax in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Halifax. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the activities around the city during these months.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. In April, Baltimore is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during spring. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Halifax. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Halifax 4°C (39°F)

Typical Weather for Halifax and Baltimore

Baltimore Halifax
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) -4°C (24°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) -1°C (31°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 4°C (39°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 9°C (48°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 14°C (57°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 18°C (64°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 18°C (65°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 15°C (58°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 10°C (49°F) 121 mm (4.7 in)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 5°C (40°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) -1°C (29°F) 152 mm (6 in)