A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Berkeley vs. Vernon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Berkeley or Vernon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berkeley or Vernon, 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Berkeley travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing town. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

Berkeley and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Berkeley or Vernon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Berkeley. Although Berkeley and Vernon are popular destinations, Berkeley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Berkeley is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Vernon attracts visitors for its hiking. Berkeley is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. It is also well known for University of California Botanical Garden. Vernon is famous for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Berkeley different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Berkeley is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Berkeley or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Berkeley offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Berkeley or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Berkeley
Vernon

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

Vernon is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Vernon?

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Berkeley or Vernon More Beautiful?

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Berkeley offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Berkeley or Vernon Better for Families?

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley and Vernon 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly city. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.


Is Berkeley or Vernon Better for Couples?

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley and Vernon are both nice to visit as a couple.

Berkeley is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Berkeley or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town 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.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

Is Berkeley or Vernon Better for Students?

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is a well-known place for students. However, Vernon is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Vernon is not popular with students.


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

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is terrific for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Berkeley can take you anywhere. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Berkeley or Vernon a more walkable city?

Berkeley
Vernon

Berkeley is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Berkeley and Vernon. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Berkeley than Vernon. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Berkeley, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Berkeley or Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berkeley 2-3 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Berkeley or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Berkeley. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The town of Vernon offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Berkeley or Vernon?

Berkeley is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Vernon 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vernon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Berkeley or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon 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 Berkeley or Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Berkeley. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon 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 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Berkeley?

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

  • Berkeley Prices
    USA Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Berkeley $217
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Berkeley is $217, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Berkeley and Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berkeley $131
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berkeley $262
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Berkeley and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Berkeley or Vernon? 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 Berkeley


Hotels in Vernon


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: Berkeley Hotel Prices and Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Vernon -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97

Is it cheaper to fly into Berkeley or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon and Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $63
    Vernon $43
Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

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


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

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

  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $137
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $15
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Experience Create your own jewelry workshop for beginners: $95
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $100
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berkeley $13
    Vernon $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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

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


Which is Bigger, Berkeley or Vernon?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Berkeley and Vernon, 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 Berkeley or Vernon?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Berkeley or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Berkeley are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

Berkeley is cooler than Vernon in the summer. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Vernon. Berkeley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Berkeley or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Berkeley during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Berkeley is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Berkeley in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Vernon averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Berkeley usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Berkeley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Berkeley or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Berkeley and Vernon. Many travelers come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vernon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vernon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Berkeley is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 50°F (10°C), and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Berkeley usually receives more rain than Vernon. Berkeley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Berkeley or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Berkeley as well as Vernon. Many visitors come to Berkeley in the spring for the natural beauty.

Berkeley is a little warmer than Vernon in the spring. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Berkeley usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Berkeley gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Berkeley

Berkeley Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)