A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Berkeley vs. Aspen for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Berkeley or Aspen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berkeley or Aspen, 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.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. Berkeley offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Berkeley travel costs.

Aspen

Aspen is a quaint, vibrant, and artsy ski town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, Aspen attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and hiking. See Aspen travel costs.

Berkeley and Aspen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berkeley or Aspen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aspen. Although Berkeley and Aspen are popular destinations, Aspen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aspen is very popular for its skiing, food, music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Berkeley attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Berkeley is famous for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Aspen is famous for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. It is also well known for The Maroon Bells.

How is Berkeley different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Aspen is renowned for snow skiing. However, Berkeley is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Aspen is among the best in the world. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Berkeley is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Berkeley or Aspen?

Berkeley is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Berkeley or Aspen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aspen is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Aspen is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Berkeley and Aspen.

Berkeley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Aspen has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Music?

Aspen is notable for its music scene. However, Berkeley is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Aspen. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Berkeley is not a live music destination.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Resorts?

Aspen is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Aspen is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Hiking?

Aspen is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Aspen is a popular spot for hiking. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Aspen?

Both Berkeley and Aspen are high quality shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Is Berkeley or Aspen More Beautiful?

Aspen is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Aspen attracts visitors from all around. Surrounded by the mountains and set amongst a beautiful natural setting, this town will take your breath away.

Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Families?

Berkeley and Aspen are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Berkeley is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Aspen is a family-friendly city. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Couples?

Aspen is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Aspen is a very popular place to visit for couples. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley is a great destination for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berkeley is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Students?

Berkeley is a great destination for students. However, Aspen is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Aspen is not popular with students.

Is Berkeley or Aspen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berkeley is renowned for its public transit. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Berkeley has a great public transit system. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

While Aspen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

Is Berkeley or Aspen a more walkable city?

Berkeley is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Aspen is very walkable. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Berkeley Worth Visiting? and Is Aspen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aspen or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Aspen?

In either Berkeley or Aspen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Aspen than Berkeley because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Berkeley, and 3-5 days is enough time in Aspen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Aspen 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 Berkeley.

One day in Berkeley or Aspen?

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Berkeley or Aspen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Aspen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Berkeley or Aspen?

Berkeley is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Berkeley. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aspen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aspen, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Berkeley or Aspen?

You'll find food and shopping around the progressive destination of Berkeley. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Aspen is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This ski town 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 Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Berkeley or Aspen?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Berkeley and Aspen, 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.