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

Should you visit Chicago or Victoria?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Chicago and Victoria can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a edgey, cosmopolitan, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Chicago offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Chicago travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Victoria travel costs.

Chicago and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Victoria?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Victoria. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Victoria attracts visitors for its hiking. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Victoria is famous for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Chicago different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chicago has many famous sights for visitors. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Victoria is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.

Is Chicago or Victoria Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Victoria is not a theatre destination.

Chicago is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Victoria is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

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 Chicago or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Chicago has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Victoria has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Chicago or Victoria Better for Music?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Victoria is not a live music destination.

Chicago has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Victoria is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Victoria Better for Beaches?

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

Chicago offers a nice beach destination. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Victoria is not a beach destination.

Is Chicago or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Victoria is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Victoria. 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.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Victoria?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Chicago specifically to go shopping. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Victoria is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Is Chicago or Victoria More Beautiful?

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

Chicago offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chicago or Victoria Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Chicago is very family-friendly. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

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.

Is Chicago or Victoria Better for Couples?

Victoria is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Victoria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Chicago or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago and Victoria are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chicago is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

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

Is Chicago or Victoria Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Victoria is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Victoria is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Victoria is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in Chicago is top-notch. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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.

Is Chicago or Victoria a more walkable city?

Chicago and Victoria both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Chicago is a very walkable destination. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Chicago or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Chicago due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

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

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

One day in Chicago or Victoria?

Chicago is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Victoria, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Chicago or Victoria?

Chicago 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.

In Victoria, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Chicago or Victoria?

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

Victoria is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Chicago or Victoria?

Chicago 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Victoria. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Victoria. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Victoria?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Victoria. When comparing the sizes of Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago or Victoria in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Victoria. Many visitors come to Chicago in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Chicago is much warmer than Victoria in the summer. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chicago usually gets more rain in July than Victoria. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Victoria in the Autumn?

Both Victoria and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Victoria because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Chicago is a little warmer than Victoria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chicago in October average around 56°F (14°C), and Victoria averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In October, Chicago usually receives less rain than Victoria. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Chicago during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Chicago because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Victoria this time of year.

It's quite cold in Victoria in the winter. The weather in Chicago can be very cold. In January, Chicago is generally much colder than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 25°F (-4°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Victoria gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chicago usually gets less rain in January than Victoria. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Victoria in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Victoria. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

Chicago is a little warmer than Victoria in the spring. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 52°F (11°C) in April, and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Chicago usually receives more rain than Victoria. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Victoria and Chicago