A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Cod vs. Moncton for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod or Moncton?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cape Cod and Moncton. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a wealthy, maritime, and beautiful beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Cape Cod attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Cape Cod travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a cultural, quaint, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Moncton travel costs.

Cape Cod and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Moncton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Cod. Although Cape Cod and Moncton are popular destinations, Cape Cod has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Cod is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Moncton attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Cape Cod is more touristy than Moncton and is known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. It is also well known for The Cape Cod National Seashore. Moncton is famous for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Cape Cod different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Moncton?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Moncton is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Moncton. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Cape Cod or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Moncton is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Moncton doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Moncton is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Cod or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod is great for the beach. However, Moncton is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Cape Cod for it's beautiful beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Moncton Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. However, Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod offers some nice hiking trails. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Moncton?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod is great for its shopping areas. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Moncton is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.


Is Cape Cod or Moncton More Beautiful?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cape Cod attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cape Cod or Moncton Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Cape Cod or Moncton Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.


Is Cape Cod or Moncton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod and Moncton both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Cape Cod or Moncton a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Moncton

Cape Cod and Moncton are nice when it comes to walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cape Cod or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cape Cod than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Moncton than Cape Cod 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 Moncton.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Moncton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Moncton 1-2

One day in Cape Cod or Moncton?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Moncton offers food and shopping. 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 Cape Cod or Moncton?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Cape Cod or Moncton?

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Moncton 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 Cape Cod or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Moncton 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton or Cape Cod?

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

  • Cape Cod Prices
    USA Prices
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Cod $227
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $227, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $148. 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 Cape Cod and Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Moncton? 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 Cape Cod


Hotels in Moncton


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: Moncton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Moncton -

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton and Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $103
    Moncton $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Moncton $79

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $75
  • Provincetown West End History Tour : $38
  • The Pilgrim Monument Tour- From Harbor to Heights: $52
  • The Tides of Terror A Provincetown Hidden Horrors Tour: $68
  • Cape Cod & Provincetown Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $22
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Chatham Bites and Sights Walking Guided Food Tasting Tour: $98
  • Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour: $58
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Local Legends and Lobster Roll Tour: $92
  • Lucinda Liphol Provincetown Cemetery Tour: $30
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $46

Tours and Activities in Moncton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moncton.

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Moncton $4.54


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

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



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod or Moncton?

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 Cape Cod or Moncton in the Summer?

Both Moncton and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Moncton this time of year.

Cape Cod is around the same temperature as Moncton in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 68°F (20°C) in July, and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In July, Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of rain as Moncton. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton and Cape Cod during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Moncton for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cape Cod is a little warmer than Moncton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Cod in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Moncton averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Moncton. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Moncton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Moncton. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Moncton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Moncton can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cape Cod. In January, Cape Cod is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 31°F (-0°C), and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cape Cod usually receives less rain than Moncton. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Moncton. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Moncton can be very cold during spring. Cape Cod is much warmer than Moncton in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. Cape Cod usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Moncton. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Cape Cod

Cape Cod Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)