A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. Cape Cod for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Galveston or Cape Cod?

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 Galveston and Cape Cod can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Galveston travel costs.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Cape Cod is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the shopping, food, and beaches. See Cape Cod travel costs.

Galveston and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Galveston or Cape Cod?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Galveston. Although Galveston and Cape Cod are both popular with visitors, Galveston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Galveston is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights, while Cape Cod is known for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also home to Pleasure Pier. Cape Cod is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Galveston different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Galveston or Cape Cod?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Galveston is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Galveston. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Galveston or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Cod has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Galveston or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Galveston is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Galveston for the nightlife scene. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Galveston or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Galveston is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Cape Cod makes a nice vacation spot. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Galveston is not a resort destination.


Is Galveston or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for the beach. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Is Galveston or Cape Cod Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Galveston is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Galveston has an old town worth visiting. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Cape Cod?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Cape Cod is well-known for its shopping. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Galveston or Cape Cod More Beautiful?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Cape Cod is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Galveston or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Galveston
Cape Cod

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Galveston or Cape Cod.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Galveston is very family-friendly. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Cape Cod is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.


Is Galveston or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Both Galveston and Cape Cod are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Galveston is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Is Galveston or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Galveston and Cape Cod both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Galveston or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Galveston
Cape Cod

Galveston and Cape Cod are good when it comes to walkability.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable place. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable town. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.


For even more information, also check out Is Galveston Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Cape Cod?

Both Galveston and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Galveston. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Galveston than Cape Cod 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 Galveston.


  • How many days in Galveston or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Galveston or Cape Cod?

The town of Galveston 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.

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Galveston or Cape Cod?

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

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Cape Cod?

Galveston 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.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.


A week in Galveston or Cape Cod?

Galveston 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 town offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cape Cod or Galveston?

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

  • Galveston Prices
    USA Prices
    Cape Cod Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Galveston $221
    Cape Cod $227

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $221, while the average daily cost in Cape Cod is $227. 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 Galveston and Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Cape Cod? 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 Galveston


Hotels in Cape Cod


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: Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Cape Cod $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod and Galveston 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
    Galveston $90
    Cape Cod $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Cape Cod $27

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • Al's Ghost tour : a small group experience : $19
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $30
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $28
  • Beer Tasting Experience with 4 Beer Flight: $10
  • Combo: "Dark of the Moon" Ghost Tour + Red Light District Tour: $29
  • Demo and Reno Galveston Reconstructed Private Tour: $85
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $30
  • Galveston Gilded Age Architecture Tour: $85
  • Galveston Haunted Harbor Tour: 1-Hour Boat Ride at Night : $45
  • Galveston Historical Harbor Tours: $35
  • Galveston Island E-Bike Adventure Tour: $75
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $29

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $75
  • Provincetown West End History Tour : $38
  • The Pilgrim Monument Tour- From Harbor to Heights: $52
  • The Tides of Terror A Provincetown Hidden Horrors Tour: $68
  • Cape Cod & Provincetown Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $22
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Chatham Bites and Sights Walking Guided Food Tasting Tour: $98
  • Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour: $58
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Local Legends and Lobster Roll Tour: $92
  • Lucinda Liphol Provincetown Cemetery Tour: $30
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $46

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Cape Cod $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

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

  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour: $20
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $20
  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour in Galveston: $29
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl and Historical Tour near The Strand: $29
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35


When comparing the travel costs between Galveston and Cape Cod, we can see that Cape Cod 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 Galveston Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Galveston or Cape Cod?

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 Galveston or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Galveston in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Galveston is a little warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galveston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In July, Galveston usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Galveston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Galveston is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 71°F (22°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Galveston usually gets less rain in October than Cape Cod. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Cape Cod. The winter months attract visitors to Galveston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. Galveston is much warmer than Cape Cod in the winter. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Galveston usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Cape Cod. The beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Galveston is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galveston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Galveston usually gets less rain in April than Cape Cod. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Galveston

Galveston Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)