A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Durham vs. Whistler for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Durham or Whistler?

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 Durham and Whistler can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a student-filled, sports oriented, and diverse city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Durham travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Whistler travel costs.

Durham and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Durham or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Durham, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Durham is more popular for its museums and attractions. Whistler is more touristy than Durham and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Durham is well known for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for snow skiing. However, Durham is not a skiing destination.

Whistler is among the world's best ski destinations. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Durham is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Durham or Whistler?

Durham is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Durham can be an interesting and educational experience. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Is the Food Better in Durham or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Whistler is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Whistler is an experience not to be missed. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Durham. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Whistler offers plenty to do in the evening. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Durham is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Whistler. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Durham is not a resort destination.

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Durham is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Whistler specifically for its hiking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Whistler?

Both Durham and Whistler are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Durham to go shopping. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Durham or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Durham is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Durham is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Whistler is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Couples?

Whistler is a well-known place for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Whistler is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Whistler is a very popular village for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Students?

Durham is a well-known place for students. However, Whistler is not popular with students.

Durham is a great city to visit as a student. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Whistler is not popular with students.

Is Durham or Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Durham and Whistler offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Durham or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Durham is not a good city for its walkability.

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Durham is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Durham Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Durham?

How long in Durham or Whistler?

In either Durham or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Durham because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Durham, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler than Durham 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 Whistler.

One day in Durham or Whistler?

The city of Durham 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Whistler. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Durham or Whistler?

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

Whistler is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Durham or Whistler?

Durham 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Whistler. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Durham or Whistler?

Durham 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Whistler. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Durham or Whistler?

Durham has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Durham and Whistler, 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 Durham or Whistler?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Durham or Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler and Durham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Durham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Whistler for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Durham is a little warmer than Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Durham in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Whistler. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually receives less sunshine than Whistler during summer. Durham gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Durham. In July, Durham usually receives more rain than Whistler. Durham gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Durham or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Durham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Durham for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Whistler in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Durham is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 61°F (16°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Durham. In the autumn, Durham often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Durham gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Durham usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Durham gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Durham or Whistler in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Durham and Whistler. Many visitors come to Durham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Whistler can be very cold during winter. Durham can get quite cold in the winter. Durham is around the same temperature as Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Durham averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Durham usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during winter. Durham gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Durham usually receives less rain than Whistler. Durham gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Durham or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Durham as well as Whistler. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Whistler because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Durham is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Durham in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Durham this time of the year. In the spring, Durham often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Durham gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Durham usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Durham gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Durham