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

Should you visit Cincinnati or Victoria?

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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Victoria? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a authentic, hard-working, and blue collar city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Cincinnati travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a relaxing, cultural, and scenic city. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Victoria travel costs.

Cincinnati and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Cincinnati or Victoria?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Victoria. Although Cincinnati and Victoria are both popular with visitors, Victoria has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Victoria is more popular for its hiking, while Cincinnati is known for its museums and attractions. Victoria is more touristy than Cincinnati and is popular for its colonial buildings and public parks. It is also home to Butchart Gardens. Cincinnati is popular for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Cincinnati different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cincinnati
Victoria

Cincinnati is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cincinnati. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

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

Cincinnati
Victoria

Foodies will find both Cincinnati and Victoria both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cincinnati. Mixed in with the standard chain and fast food options, you'll find some local restaurants that serve up the iconic Midwestern favorites. For a taste of the town, try Cincinnati chili, barbecue ribs, and a corned beef Reuben.

Victoria is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Cincinnati or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Cincinnati
Victoria

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Cincinnati and Victoria.

Cincinnati has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

If you're looking for night time activities Victoria has a few options to choose from. 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 Cincinnati or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Cincinnati
Victoria

Victoria is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Cincinnati is not a hiking destination.

Victoria is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Cincinnati is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cincinnati or Victoria?

Cincinnati
Victoria

Shopping is a popular activity in both Victoria and Cincinnati.

Cincinnati offers some nice shopping areas. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.

Victoria has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Is Cincinnati or Victoria Better for Families?

Cincinnati
Victoria

Victoria is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Victoria is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Cincinnati offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

Is Cincinnati or Victoria Better for Couples?

Cincinnati
Victoria

Victoria is well known for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.


Is Cincinnati or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cincinnati
Victoria

Cincinnati and Victoria are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Victoria is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

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

Cincinnati
Victoria

Cincinnati is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Victoria is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Cincinnati has some public transit options. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

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 Cincinnati or Victoria a more walkable city?

Cincinnati
Victoria

Cincinnati and Victoria both are superb when exploring on foot.

Cincinnati is a very walkable city. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Cincinnati?

How long in Cincinnati or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Cincinnati or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Victoria due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cincinnati, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati.


  • How many days in Cincinnati or Victoria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cincinnati 1-2 
    Victoria 3-4

One day in Cincinnati or Victoria?

The city of Cincinnati 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.

With museums and nightlife around the relaxing city of Victoria, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cincinnati or Victoria?

Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Victoria, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cincinnati or Victoria?

Cincinnati 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.

Victoria, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Cincinnati or Victoria?

Cincinnati 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.

Victoria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Cincinnati?

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

  • Cincinnati Prices
    USA Prices
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cincinnati $223
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Cincinnati is $223, while the average daily cost in Victoria is $201. 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 Cincinnati and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cincinnati $102
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cincinnati $204
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Cincinnati and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Cincinnati or Victoria? 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 Cincinnati


Hotels in Victoria


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: Cincinnati Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cincinnati $25
    Victoria $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Victoria

Also for Victoria, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Victoria City Hotels to Nanaimo Cruise Port: $131
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer: $77
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Cruise Terminal Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver Ferry with Bus Transfer: $75
  • Victoria to Vancouver Scenic Seaplane Transfer: One Way: $289
  • Private Cruise Transfer with City Sightseeing Tour: $682

Is it cheaper to fly into Cincinnati or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Cincinnati 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
    Cincinnati $95
    Victoria $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Victoria

For Victoria, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings: $86
  • Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria: $88
  • Vistas and Views Food Tour with 3-Course Meal: $100
  • Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour - Cowichan Valley : $125
  • Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour: $144
  • Gourmet Dinner Tour Including Local Beer, Wine and City Highlights: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cincinnati $26
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Victoria

For Victoria, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 2.5-Hour: $5.02
  • Butterfly Gardens Admission Ticket: $15
  • Victoria Butterfly Gardens Ticket: $15
  • Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $15
  • Iconic & Obscure Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Chinatown Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Walking Tour through History and Heritage: $17
  • Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square: $17
  • Royal BC Museum Admission Ticket: $17
  • Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $17
  • Royal B.C. Museum in Full-Day Admission Ticket: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cincinnati $11
    Victoria $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Victoria

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

  • Victoria BC: Tour & Tasting Around Award Winning Distillery: $21
  • Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers: $52
  • Local Brewery Tour with a Guide: $86
  • Victoria, BC: Food & Wine Tour to the Cowichan Valley: $118
  • 6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour: $126
  • Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie: $132
  • Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour : $143
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


When comparing the travel costs between Cincinnati and Victoria, we can see that Cincinnati is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cincinnati or Victoria?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Victoria. When comparing the sizes of Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati or Victoria in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cincinnati as well as Victoria. Most visitors come to Cincinnati for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Victoria because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cincinnati is much warmer than Victoria. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cincinnati in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Victoria averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Cincinnati usually gets more rain in July than Victoria. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C) 
    Victoria 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Victoria in the Autumn?

Both Victoria and Cincinnati are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Cincinnati because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Victoria this time of year.

In October, Cincinnati is generally a little warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 58°F (15°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C) 
    Victoria 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Cincinnati during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cincinnati this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Victoria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Victoria. It's quite cold in Cincinnati in the winter. Cincinnati is much colder than Victoria in the winter. The daily temperature in Cincinnati averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Victoria gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cincinnati usually gets less rain in January than Victoria. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cincinnati 31°F (-0°C) 
    Victoria 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Victoria in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cincinnati and Victoria.

In the spring, Cincinnati is a little warmer than Victoria. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cincinnati in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Victoria averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In April, Cincinnati usually receives more rain than Victoria. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C) 
    Victoria 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Victoria and Cincinnati

Cincinnati Victoria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 5°C (41°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 7°C (44°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 10°C (49°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 12°C (54°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 14°C (58°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 16°C (60°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 16°C (61°F) 19 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 8°C (46°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 5°C (42°F) 153 mm (6 in)