A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beaufort vs. Victoria for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Beaufort or Victoria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Victoria, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a historic, character-filled, and southern town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Beaufort travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a scenic, relaxing, and cultural city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Victoria travel costs.

Beaufort and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Victoria?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Victoria, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Victoria is more popular for its nightlife and hiking. Victoria is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its colonial buildings and public parks. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Beaufort different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Victoria?

Beaufort
Victoria

Both Beaufort and Victoria have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Victoria offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Victoria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Victoria

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

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Beaufort or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Victoria

Victoria is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Victoria. There are a good number of bars and pubs around town. Most offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink in a casual setting.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Victoria Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Victoria

Beaufort is a good destination for the beach. However, Victoria is not a beach destination.

Beaufort offers a nice beach destination. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Victoria is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Victoria Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Victoria

Beaufort is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Victoria does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Victoria does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Victoria

Victoria is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Victoria has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many outdoor spaces and parks that offer local hiking trails. This is a great way to experience the scenic beauty of the area.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Victoria?

Beaufort
Victoria

Both Beaufort and Victoria are notable shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Victoria. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.


Is Beaufort or Victoria More Beautiful?

Beaufort
Victoria

Beaufort is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beaufort or Victoria Better for Families?

Beaufort
Victoria

Victoria is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Victoria is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside and get the energy out. Walking trails are popular. You can also do the Malahat SkyWalk which offers impressive views. Cadboro-Gyro Park has a playground, zip-line, and picnic areas. Another hightlight for kids is a visit to the Beacon Hill Children's Farm. If the weather isn't cooperating, you can visit the BC Aviation Museum.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Victoria Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Victoria

Beaufort and Victoria are both great to visit as a couple.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Victoria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city offers many great activities for couples such as a visit to Hatley Park and Castle. The city is also famous for its many flower gardens which are best visited in spring. Kayaking, hiking, and exploring are also favorite activities for couples.


Is Beaufort or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Victoria

Victoria is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

Is Beaufort or Victoria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Victoria

Victoria is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Victoria. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Beaufort or Victoria a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Victoria

Beaufort and Victoria both are great when exploring on foot.

Beaufort is very walkable. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Victoria is a very walkable town. Many of the sights are close by and easy to walk to.


For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Victoria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Victoria due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Victoria than Beaufort 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 Victoria.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Victoria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Victoria 3-4

One day in Beaufort or Victoria?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Victoria offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Beaufort or Victoria?

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

Victoria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Victoria?

Beaufort 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.

Victoria 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.


A week in Beaufort or Victoria?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Victoria 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 city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Beaufort?

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

  • Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beaufort $154
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $154, while the average daily cost in Victoria is $201. 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 Beaufort and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Victoria? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Victoria


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Victoria $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Victoria

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

  • Victoria to Vancouver Ferry with Bus Transfer: $75
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer: $77
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Cruise Terminal Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Private Transfer from Victoria City Hotels to Nanaimo Cruise Port: $131
  • Victoria to Vancouver Scenic Seaplane Transfer: One Way: $289
  • Private Cruise Transfer with City Sightseeing Tour: $682

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $54
    Victoria $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Victoria

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

  • Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings: $86
  • Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria: $88
  • Vistas and Views Food Tour with 3-Course Meal: $100
  • Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour - Cowichan Valley : $125
  • Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour: $144
  • Gourmet Dinner Tour Including Local Beer, Wine and City Highlights: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48

Tours and Activities in Victoria

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

  • Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 2.5-Hour: $5.02
  • Butterfly Gardens Admission Ticket: $15
  • Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $15
  • Iconic & Obscure Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Chinatown Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square: $17
  • Walking Tour through History and Heritage: $17
  • Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $17
  • Royal B.C. Museum in Full-Day Admission Ticket: $21
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $24
  • Malahat SkyWalk Tickets: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Victoria $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Victoria

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

  • Victoria BC: Tour & Tasting Around Award Winning Distillery: $21
  • Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers: $52
  • Local Brewery Tour with a Guide: $86
  • Victoria, BC: Food & Wine Tour to the Cowichan Valley: $118
  • 6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour: $126
  • Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie: $132
  • Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour : $144
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


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

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Victoria?

Victoria has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Victoria, 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 Beaufort or Victoria?

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 Beaufort or Victoria in the Summer?

Both Victoria and Beaufort during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Victoria in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Victoria. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Victoria 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Victoria in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Victoria. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Beaufort is much warmer than Victoria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Victoria fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In October, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Victoria. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Victoria 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Victoria in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Victoria. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Victoria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Victoria can be very cold. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Victoria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Victoria averages at about 5°C (41°F).

It's quite rainy in Victoria. Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Victoria. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Victoria 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Beaufort or Victoria in the Spring?

Both Victoria and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In April, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Victoria. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Victoria 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Victoria and Beaufort

Beaufort Victoria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 5°C (41°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 7°C (44°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 10°C (49°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 12°C (54°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 14°C (58°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 16°C (60°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 16°C (61°F) 19 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 8°C (46°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 5°C (42°F) 153 mm (6 in)