A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Clearwater vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Clearwater or Toronto?

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 Clearwater and Toronto. 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Clearwater travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Toronto travel costs.

Clearwater and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Toronto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toronto than Clearwater, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Toronto is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Clearwater is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Toronto is popular for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also home to the CN Tower.

How is Clearwater different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Toronto?

Toronto is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Toronto that are not to be missed. 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.

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Toronto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Toronto both to be very good destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Toronto has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Clearwater or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Toronto just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Is Clearwater or Toronto Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Toronto is not a resort destination.

In Clearwater, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Toronto is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Toronto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a coastal city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is terrific for its beaches. However, Toronto is not a beach destination.

Clearwater is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Toronto is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Toronto?

Toronto is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Toronto is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Is Clearwater or Toronto Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Toronto are very good family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Toronto is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Clearwater or Toronto Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Toronto both very good destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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 Clearwater or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toronto is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is a world-class destination for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Toronto is a very popular place to visit 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.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

Is Clearwater or Toronto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Toronto is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Toronto can get you around easily. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

Public transit is mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Is Clearwater or Toronto a more walkable city?

Toronto is notable for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Toronto?

Both Clearwater 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 Clearwater. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

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

Couples should spend more time in Toronto than Clearwater. 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Toronto?

In Clearwater, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Clearwater or Toronto?

In Clearwater, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Clearwater or Toronto?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Clearwater has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Clearwater. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Toronto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking 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 Clearwater and Toronto, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Toronto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Toronto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Toronto 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 Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater than you might in Toronto.

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Toronto in the Summer?

Both Toronto and Clearwater during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Toronto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Toronto in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Toronto, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the summer, Clearwater often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toronto. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Toronto. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Toronto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Toronto. The autumn months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

In the autumn, Clearwater is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Toronto averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toronto. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Clearwater or Toronto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Toronto. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Toronto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Toronto. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets more rain in January than Toronto. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Toronto in the Spring?

Both Toronto and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Toronto in the spring for the activities around the city.

Clearwater is much warmer than Toronto in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Toronto. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Clearwater