A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bar Harbor vs. Edmonton for Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bar Harbor and Edmonton 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.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a relaxed, quaint, and charming coastal town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. Bar Harbor is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Bar Harbor travel costs.

Edmonton

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

Bar Harbor and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
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 for food


Is there more to do in Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bar Harbor. Although Bar Harbor and Edmonton are both popular with visitors, Bar Harbor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bar Harbor is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Edmonton is known for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Bar Harbor is more touristy than Edmonton and is known for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park. It is also home to Acadia National Park. Edmonton is popular for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Bar Harbor different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Edmonton is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Edmonton. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.

Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bar Harbor or Edmonton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Bar Harbor is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bar Harbor makes for a great culinary experience. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Edmonton is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Edmonton. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.

Bar Harbor doesn't offer many options. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton Better for Resorts?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Bar Harbor is very good for its resorts. However, Edmonton is not a resort destination.

Bar Harbor has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.

Edmonton is not a resort destination.


Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton Better for Beaches?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Bar Harbor is very good for its beaches. However, Edmonton is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Bar Harbor to enjoy the beach. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Edmonton is not a beach destination.

Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton Better for Hiking?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Bar Harbor is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Bar Harbor. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.

Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Both Bar Harbor and Edmonton are superb shopping destinations.

Bar Harbor is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.

Edmonton is well-known for its shopping. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.


Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton More Beautiful?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Bar Harbor is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Edmonton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Bar Harbor is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Surrounded by the water and beautiful landscaping, the town offers visitors plenty of beauty.

Edmonton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton Better for Families?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Both Bar Harbor and Edmonton are good to visit with kids.

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.

Edmonton is a family-friendly coastal town. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Bar Harbor is a well-known place for romance. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Bar Harbor is a very popular place to visit for couples. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

Edmonton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.


Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Edmonton is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Edmonton has a few public transit options. The city has both bus and light rail systems.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.

Is Bar Harbor or Edmonton a more walkable city?

Bar Harbor
Edmonton

Bar Harbor is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Bar Harbor is very walkable. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Bar Harbor Worth Visiting? and Is Edmonton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Bar Harbor?

How long in Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bar Harbor or Edmonton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bar Harbor than Edmonton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Bar Harbor, and 1-2 days is enough time in Edmonton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edmonton than Bar Harbor 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 Edmonton.


  • How many days in Bar Harbor or Edmonton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bar Harbor 2-3 
    Edmonton 1-2

One day in Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Bar Harbor is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the authentic city of Edmonton, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edmonton, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Bar Harbor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bar Harbor, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Edmonton, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Bar Harbor is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Edmonton, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Bar Harbor is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

Edmonton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Edmonton or Bar Harbor?

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

  • Bar Harbor Prices
    USA Prices
    Edmonton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bar Harbor $243
    Edmonton $191

The average daily cost (per person) in Bar Harbor is $243, while the average daily cost in Edmonton is $191. 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 Bar Harbor and Edmonton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bar Harbor $117
    Edmonton $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bar Harbor $234
    Edmonton $202
Compare Hotels in Bar Harbor and Edmonton

Looking for a hotel in Bar Harbor or Edmonton? 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 Bar Harbor


Hotels in Edmonton


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: Bar Harbor Hotel Prices and Edmonton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bar Harbor $35
    Edmonton $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edmonton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Edmonton:

  • Private Transfer from Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG): $120
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton Hotels: $120
  • Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG) - Departure Private Transfer: $120
  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Arrival Private Transfer: $120
  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $241

Is it cheaper to fly into Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Prices for flights to both Edmonton and Bar Harbor 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
    Bar Harbor $98
    Edmonton $27
Typical Food Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • West Street Cafe (for 4)
    $70

Typical Food Prices in Edmonton

Some typical examples of dining costs in Edmonton are as follows:


  • Snacks
    $7.26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bar Harbor $39
    Edmonton $91
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • Acadia National Park Entrance Fee
    $25
  • Sunset Cruise (for 4)
    $96

Tours and Activities in Bar Harbor

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bar Harbor are as follows:

  • Self Guided GPS Audio Driving Tour Acadia NP From Hulls Cove VC: $9.50
  • Acadia's Ocean Path Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Historic Bar Harbor Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour Guide: $13
  • Acadia Mount Desert Island Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Acadia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Ultimate Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Acadia National Park: $20
  • Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $25
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $30
  • Bar Harbor Walking Tour: $30
  • 90-minute Ghost Walking Tour in Bar Harbor: $33

Tours and Activities in Edmonton

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Edmonton are as follows:

  • Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based: $4.00
  • 3-Hour City Highlights Walking Tour With Guide: $4.02
  • Edmonton Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Edmonton by Crazy Dash: $10
  • TELUS World of Science General Admission Ticket: $19
  • Edmonton River Valley 60-Minute Segway Adventure: $44
  • 1-Hour Edmonton River Valley Segway Tour: $44
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $46
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Rogers Place: $54
  • Edmonton River Valley 90-Minute Segway Adventure: $62
  • E-Scooter City Highlights Tour | 2-Hour: $63
  • City Bike Tour, Highlights and River Valley: $77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bar Harbor $30
    Edmonton -

Sample the Local Flavors in Edmonton

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group): $103


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bar Harbor or Edmonton?

Edmonton has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Bar Harbor. When comparing the sizes of Bar Harbor and Edmonton, 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.