A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Toronto 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant, cultural, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Toronto travel costs.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Toronto than Carmel-by-the-Sea, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Toronto is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is more popular for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Toronto is well known for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. Also, Toronto is famous for the CN Tower.

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Toronto and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

Toronto is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Toronto on the map. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Is the Food Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Toronto.

Dining out in Carmel-by-the-Sea is an experience not to be missed. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Toronto is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Toronto is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Carmel-by-the-Sea attract visitors from all over. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Toronto is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

Toronto is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Toronto is a world class destination for shoppers. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto More Beautiful?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto Better for Families?

Toronto is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Toronto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto Better for Couples?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Toronto are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Toronto makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toronto is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Toronto is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is renowned for students. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Toronto is a very popular city for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Toronto is renowned for its public transit. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Toronto has a great public transit system. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

Public transit is mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Toronto both are great when exploring on foot.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very walkable destination. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

Toronto is very walkable. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Toronto than in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Carmel-by-the-Sea, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

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

Couples should spend more time in Toronto than Carmel-by-the-Sea. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Toronto that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toronto than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Toronto.

One day in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Since Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Toronto is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive? and Is Toronto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 1140 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Toronto, 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto?

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto in the Summer?

Both Toronto and Carmel-by-the-Sea during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

In the summer, Carmel-by-the-Sea is cooler than Toronto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Toronto averages at about 21°C (70°F).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in July than Toronto. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Toronto. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toronto for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 62°F (17°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Toronto. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Toronto. Many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Toronto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Toronto can get quite cold in the winter. Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Toronto in the winter. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets more rain in January than Toronto. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Toronto in the Spring?

Both Toronto and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Toronto for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Toronto averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Toronto. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Carmel-by-the-Sea