A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fort Lauderdale vs. Vancouver for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

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 Fort Lauderdale and Vancouver. 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a high energy, scenic, and bustling coastal city. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a scenic, diverse, and friendly city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Vancouver travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vancouver than Fort Lauderdale, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Vancouver is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Fort Lauderdale is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Vancouver and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Vancouver is popular for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Stanley Park.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Vancouver that are not to be missed. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Vancouver offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Fort Lauderdale makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Vancouver has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

The nightlife in Vancouver has something for everybody. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Vancouver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Vancouver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Vancouver is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Vancouver is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale and Vancouver both are comparable with their excellent scenery and beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

The beauty of Vancouver is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Vancouver are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Vancouver is very family-friendly. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale and Vancouver both terrific destinations for a couple.

Fort Lauderdale is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Vancouver makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver is a great destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is a great destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Many students visit Vancouver. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Vancouver has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Vancouver on foot is easy. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable coastal city. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

In either Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Vancouver because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver than Fort Lauderdale 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 Vancouver.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Vancouver is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the spirited destination of Fort Lauderdale. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Vancouver is a big city with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

You'll find nightlife and food around the high energy coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Vancouver is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fort Lauderdale, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vancouver. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Vancouver, 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 Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver?

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 Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Vancouver in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Vancouver fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Vancouver, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Vancouver. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Vancouver. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Vancouver. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Vancouver for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Vancouver averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Vancouver. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Vancouver in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vancouver can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than Vancouver. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver in the Spring?

Both Vancouver and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Vancouver in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Vancouver fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vancouver. In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Fort Lauderdale