A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ensenada vs. Saskatoon for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Ensenada or Saskatoon?

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

Should I visit Ensenada or Saskatoon? 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.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a cultural, outdoorsy, and historic city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Ensenada travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Ensenada and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Ensenada or Saskatoon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ensenada than Saskatoon. Ensenada is bigger than Saskatoon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ensenada is more touristy than Saskatoon and is known for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. Also, Ensenada is famous for Avenida Lopez Mateos. Saskatoon is well known for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Ensenada different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ensenada or Saskatoon?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Ensenada and Saskatoon.

Ensenada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saskatoon. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.


Is the Food Better in Ensenada or Saskatoon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ensenada. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

Saskatoon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is Ensenada or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

It's hard to distinguish whether Ensenada or Saskatoon has a better nightlife scene.

Ensenada has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

If you're looking for night time activities Saskatoon has a few options to choose from. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

Is Ensenada or Saskatoon Better for Beaches?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

Ensenada is a moderate city for the beach. However, Saskatoon is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Ensenada. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Saskatoon is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Saskatoon?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

Shopping is a popular activity in both Saskatoon and Ensenada.

Ensenada offers some nice shopping areas. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

Saskatoon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is Ensenada or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ensenada or Saskatoon.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ensenada. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Saskatoon offers lots of family activities. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.

Is Ensenada or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

With fun activities for couples, both Ensenada and Saskatoon make for a notable place to visit.

Ensenada makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

Saskatoon is a good city for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.


Is Ensenada or Saskatoon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

Ensenada is a good destination for backpackers. However, Saskatoon is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ensenada. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.

Is Ensenada or Saskatoon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ensenada and Saskatoon.

Public transit is generally limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.

Is Ensenada or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Ensenada
Saskatoon

Ensenada is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

Ensenada is a very walkable city. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

Saskatoon is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Ensenada Worth Visiting? and Is Saskatoon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ensenada and Saskatoon. In our opinion, Ensenada has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ensenada than Saskatoon. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ensenada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saskatoon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ensenada than Saskatoon 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 Ensenada.


  • How many days in Ensenada or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ensenada 2-3 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Ensenada or Saskatoon?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Ensenada. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Saskatoon 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.

A weekend in Ensenada or Saskatoon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Ensenada. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Ensenada or Saskatoon?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Ensenada. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Saskatoon 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.


A week in Ensenada or Saskatoon?

Ensenada is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Saskatoon 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or Ensenada?

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

  • Ensenada Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ensenada $115
    Saskatoon $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Ensenada is $115, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $149. 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 Ensenada and Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ensenada $42
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ensenada $84
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Ensenada and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Ensenada or Saskatoon? 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 Ensenada


Hotels in Saskatoon


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: Ensenada Hotel Prices and Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ensenada $19
    Saskatoon $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ensenada

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ensenada:

  • Border and Tijuana Airport Transfers to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Ensenada or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon and Ensenada 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
    Ensenada $61
    Saskatoon $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ensenada

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

  • Mexican Cooking Class at Hacienda Eco-Domes | Valle de Guadalupe: $84
  • Tacos and Margaritas Food Tour in Ensenada Mexico: $85
  • Cooking Class and Margarita Madness at Valle de Guadalupe : $89
  • Surprises, Delights and Joys Ensenada Wine, Mezcal, and Food Tour: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ensenada $9.79
    Saskatoon $17

Tours and Activities in Ensenada

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

  • La Bufadora Punta Banda Tour: $38
  • La Bufadora Tour in Baja California: $42
  • Las Cañadas Campamento Horseback Riding Experience: $44
  • The Bufadora private Tour: $49
  • Tacos, Brews and Views Tour : $50
  • Full Day Private Tour or Guadalupe Valley Weekend: $52
  • Tacos, Tequila, Cerveza - A Private Tour of Ensenada: $53
  • Las Cañadas Canopy Tour in Ensenada: $53
  • Valle de Guadalupe Adults Only Tour: $56
  • Explore Ensenada with Private Car and Walking Tour: $65
  • Private Massage Experience in Ensenada: $65
  • Las Canadas Ecopark and Bufadora private tour : $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ensenada $9.98
    Saskatoon $9.60

Sample the Local Flavors in Ensenada

Also in Ensenada, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience in Maglén: $27
  • Tractor Pull Around Vineyards and Wine Tasting Tour: $56
  • Private Ensenada Tacos and Wine Tour : $109
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Experience: Wine Tastings Included: $112
  • Valle de Guadalupe COUPLES wine tasting for 2: $135
  • wine tours and driver service through valle de guadalupe, Ensenada B.C. Mexico: $145
  • Pvt Wine Tastings + Cheese Store + Massage Shore Excursion: $149
  • Wine Tasting Tour ONLY for Cruise Ship Visitors. ALL INCLUSIVE!: $221
  • Private and custom group Wine tour Valle de Guadalupe : $238


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

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


Which is Bigger, Ensenada or Saskatoon?

Ensenada has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Saskatoon. When comparing the sizes of Ensenada and Saskatoon, 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.