A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fairbanks vs. Victoria for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Fairbanks or Victoria?

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

Should I visit Fairbanks 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.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a remote, Arctic, and unique city. Fairbanks is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, hiking, and shopping. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Victoria travel costs.

Fairbanks and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fairbanks or Victoria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Victoria. Although Fairbanks and Victoria are popular destinations, Victoria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Victoria is very popular for its food and nightlife, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Victoria is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its colonial buildings and public parks. It is also well known for Butchart Gardens. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Fairbanks different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Fairbanks or Victoria Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks for snow skiing. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Victoria is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Victoria and Fairbanks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Fairbanks. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

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 Fairbanks or Victoria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Victoria is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Fairbanks or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Victoria is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Victoria. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Fairbanks or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

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 Fairbanks or Victoria?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Fairbanks and Victoria.

Fairbanks has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

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

Is Fairbanks or Victoria More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Fairbanks is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city offers access to Alaska's interior, as well as the Arctic. The scenery is spectacular and the wildlife is abundant. Fairbanks is also the best place in Alaska to see the Northern Lights. They are best seen between the months of August and April.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fairbanks or Victoria Better for Families?

Victoria is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Victoria. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Fairbanks or Victoria Better for Couples?

Victoria is a very popular place for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Victoria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Fairbanks or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

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

Victoria is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Victoria. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Fairbanks or Victoria a more walkable city?

Victoria is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Fairbanks is not a walkable city. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Fairbanks?

How long in Fairbanks or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Fairbanks or Victoria. In our opinion, Victoria has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Victoria than Fairbanks. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Fairbanks, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

Families should spend more time in Victoria than Fairbanks. 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 Fairbanks. 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 Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks.

One day in Fairbanks or Victoria?

The beautiful city of Fairbanks offers museums and shopping. 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 shopping and museums around the city of Victoria. 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.

A weekend in Fairbanks or Victoria?

Fairbanks 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fairbanks, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Victoria. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Fairbanks or Victoria?

Fairbanks 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Victoria. 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.

A week in Fairbanks or Victoria?

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. 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 city offers something for everyone.

Victoria 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Fairbanks or Victoria?

Victoria has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks or Victoria?

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 Fairbanks or Victoria in the Summer?

Both Victoria and Fairbanks are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Victoria because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Fairbanks is a little warmer than Victoria in the summer. The daily temperature in Fairbanks averages around 64°F (18°C) in July, and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In July, Fairbanks usually receives more rain than Victoria. Fairbanks gets 2 inches (51 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Victoria in the Autumn?

Both Victoria and Fairbanks during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Victoria this time of year.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In the autumn, Fairbanks is much colder than Victoria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fairbanks in October average around 27°F (-3°C), and Victoria averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Fairbanks usually gets less rain in October than Victoria. Fairbanks gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Victoria in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fairbanks and Victoria. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks in the winter. In January, Fairbanks is generally much colder than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Fairbanks average around -9°F (-23°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Victoria receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Fairbanks usually receives less rain than Victoria. Fairbanks gets 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Victoria in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fairbanks as well as Victoria. Many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. Fairbanks is much colder than Victoria in the spring. The daily temperature in Fairbanks averages around 32°F (0°C) in April, and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Fairbanks usually gets less rain in April than Victoria. Fairbanks gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Victoria and Fairbanks