A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Colorado Springs vs. Victoria for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs and Victoria can help you decide which place is right for you.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy mountain town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and museums. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a scenic, relaxing, and cultural city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Victoria travel costs.

Colorado Springs and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Colorado Springs or Victoria?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Victoria than Colorado Springs. While Colorado Springs is larger than Victoria, Victoria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Victoria is better known for its shopping, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Victoria is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is popular for its colonial buildings and public parks. Also, Victoria is famous for Butchart Gardens. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Colorado Springs different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Colorado Springs or Victoria Better for Skiing?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Colorado Springs is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Victoria is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Colorado Springs for snow skiing. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Victoria is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Colorado Springs or Victoria?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Both Colorado Springs and Victoria have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Colorado Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people visit this area for the outdoor recreation, not the museums, but in town you'll find the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum, the Peterson Air and Space Museum, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The U.S. Olympic Complex Training Center is also a unique place to visit and well worth some time.

Victoria offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Colorado Springs or Victoria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Colorado Springs and Victoria.

Colorado Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

Victoria has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Colorado Springs or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

It's hard to distinguish whether Colorado Springs or Victoria has a better nightlife scene.

Colorado Springs has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town has a number of breweries and a great craft beer selection. There are local bars along Tejon Street, or head through Downtown Colorado Springs for some of the most active nightlife.

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 Colorado Springs or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Colorado Springs is an amazing mountain town to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Colorado Springs is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are both world-famous hiking areas, as well as lesser known hikes that the locals often prefer. Some of the more famous places include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. For families, check out Seven Bridges Trail or Mount Muscoco Trail. Loud's Cabin is a longer trail that also includes Seven Bridges Trail.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Colorado Springs or Victoria?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Victoria is very good for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Colorado Springs or Victoria More Beautiful?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Colorado Springs is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. The town is surrounded by tons of natural beauty. In the area you'll find the Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, and the Broadmoor Seven Falls.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Colorado Springs or Victoria Better for Families?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Colorado Springs or Victoria.

Colorado Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Victoria is very family-friendly. 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 Colorado Springs or Victoria Better for Couples?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Victoria is a great destination for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Colorado Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking and exploring nature together will love visiting this town and the areas nearby. There are many hiking trails in easy reach of the town. Hot air balloon rides are also popular and offer an amazing view over the beautiful landscape.

Is Colorado Springs or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Colorado Springs and Victoria are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Colorado Springs is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Just outside of town you'll find campgrounds with all of the amenities that you might need. In town, there's also a hostel and several affordable accommodation options.

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


Is Colorado Springs or Victoria Better for Students?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Colorado Springs is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Victoria is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Colorado Springs. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Victoria is not popular with students.

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

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Victoria is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Colorado Springs. While there are buses, many people come to the area to visit Pikes Peak or several of the other nearby parks, all of which require a car.

Is Colorado Springs or Victoria a more walkable city?

Colorado Springs
Victoria

Victoria is a great destination for its walkability. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable mountain town. While the downtown area is walkable, you'll really want to have a car so you can explore the areas outside of town.


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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Colorado Springs?

How long in Colorado Springs or Victoria?

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

Couples should spend more time in Victoria than Colorado Springs. 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.


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

One day in Colorado Springs or Victoria?

The beautiful mountain town of Colorado Springs offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Victoria. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Colorado Springs or Victoria?

Colorado Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Colorado Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural city of Victoria. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Colorado Springs or Victoria?

Colorado Springs is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


A week in Colorado Springs or Victoria?

Colorado Springs is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This mountain town offers something for everyone.

Victoria is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Colorado Springs?

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

  • Colorado Springs Prices
    USA Prices
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Colorado Springs $205
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Colorado Springs is $205, 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 Colorado Springs and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Colorado Springs $81
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Colorado Springs $162
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Colorado Springs and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs


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: Colorado Springs Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Colorado Springs $36
    Victoria $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Winter Park Ski Resort to Denver Airport BJC Departure Transfer: $274
  • Eagle Airport (EGE) to Glenwood Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $177

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 Colorado Springs or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Colorado Springs 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
    Colorado Springs $95
    Victoria $47
Typical Food Prices in Colorado Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Colorado Springs:


  • Cold Stone Ice Cream (family of 4)
    $22
  • Snacks at the Zoo (family of 4)
    $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Colorado Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Colorado Springs.

  • Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery - Colorado Springs, CO: $89
  • Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs: $90

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.
    Colorado Springs $40
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

Here are a few actual costs in Colorado Springs for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Pikes Peak E-Golf Cart Historic Tour of Manitou Springs: $64
  • 1-Hour Segway Tour of Cheyenne Cañon Art, History and Nature: $89
  • 2-Hour Segway Tour in Cheyenne Cañon and Broadmoor Area: $129
  • Bike Tour in the Garden of The Gods: $244
  • Cheyenne Cañon Art and Nature Segway Tour: $89
  • Cocktails & Tastes Tour in Colorado Springs: $94
  • Colorado Red Rocks Amphitheatre Walking Tour: $39
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Luxury Jeep Tours: $149
  • Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour: $54
  • Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour: $110
  • Garden of The Gods Classic Hiking Tour: $100

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
  • Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $15
  • Iconic & Obscure Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Chinatown Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square: $17
  • Walking Tour through History and Heritage: $17
  • Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $17
  • Royal B.C. Museum in Full-Day Admission Ticket: $21
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $24
  • Malahat SkyWalk Tickets: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Colorado Springs $24
    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 : $144
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


When comparing the travel costs between Colorado Springs and Victoria, we can see that Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs Expensive? and Is Victoria Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Colorado Springs or Victoria?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Victoria. When comparing the sizes of Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs or Victoria in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Colorado Springs as well as Victoria. Many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Colorado Springs is generally a little warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Colorado Springs average around 71°F (22°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Colorado Springs usually gets more rain in July than Victoria. Colorado Springs gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C) 
    Victoria 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Victoria in the Autumn?

Both Victoria and Colorado Springs are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, 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.

Colorado Springs is cooler than Victoria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Colorado Springs averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Victoria fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In October, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Victoria. Colorado Springs gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C) 
    Victoria 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Colorado Springs during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the skiing, the museums, 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 Colorado Springs can be very cold. In the winter, Colorado Springs is much colder than Victoria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Colorado Springs in January average around 26°F (-3°C), and Victoria averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Victoria gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Colorado Springs usually gets less rain in January than Victoria. Colorado Springs gets 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C) 
    Victoria 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Colorado Springs or Victoria in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Colorado Springs and Victoria. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Colorado Springs this time of year.

In April, Colorado Springs is generally cooler than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Colorado Springs average around 45°F (7°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In April, Colorado Springs usually receives less rain than Victoria. Colorado Springs gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C) 
    Victoria 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Victoria and Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Victoria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm) 5°C (41°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm) 7°C (44°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm) 10°C (49°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 12°C (54°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm) 14°C (58°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 16°C (60°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 16°C (61°F) 19 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm) 8°C (46°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm) 5°C (42°F) 153 mm (6 in)