A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Galveston vs. Edmonton for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Galveston or Edmonton?

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 Edmonton can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Galveston travel costs.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a authentic, friendly, and cultural city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Edmonton travel costs.

Galveston and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Galveston or Edmonton?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Galveston than Edmonton. While Edmonton is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Edmonton attracts visitors for its shopping. Galveston is more touristy than Edmonton and is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier. Edmonton is famous for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Galveston different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edmonton 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 Edmonton?

Galveston
Edmonton

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Galveston and Edmonton.

Many visitors head to Galveston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Edmonton can be an interesting and educational experience. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.


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

Galveston
Edmonton

Galveston is very good for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

Galveston offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Galveston or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Edmonton

Galveston is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Galveston offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Edmonton. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.

Is Galveston or Edmonton Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Edmonton

Galveston is very good for its beaches. However, Edmonton is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Galveston to enjoy the beach. 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.

Edmonton is not a beach destination.


Is Galveston or Edmonton Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Edmonton

Galveston is very good for its historic old town. However, Edmonton does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Galveston to see the historical old town. 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.

Edmonton does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Edmonton?

Galveston
Edmonton

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

Edmonton is well-known for its shopping. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

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 Edmonton Better for Families?

Galveston
Edmonton

Galveston is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Galveston is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Edmonton is a family-friendly town. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.


Is Galveston or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Galveston
Edmonton

Galveston is a well-known place for romance. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Galveston is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Edmonton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.

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

Galveston
Edmonton

Edmonton is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Edmonton offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has both bus and light rail systems.

Public transit is generally 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.

Is Galveston or Edmonton a more walkable city?

Galveston
Edmonton

Galveston and Edmonton are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable town. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Galveston or Edmonton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Galveston than Edmonton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 1-2 days is enough time in Edmonton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Galveston than Edmonton 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 Edmonton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Edmonton 1-2

One day in Galveston or Edmonton?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Edmonton. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edmonton has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Galveston or Edmonton?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Edmonton. 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.

Five days in Galveston or Edmonton?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the cultural city of Edmonton. 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 Galveston or Edmonton?

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.

Edmonton 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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Edmonton 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
    Edmonton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Galveston $221
    Edmonton $191

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $221, while the average daily cost in Edmonton is $191. 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 Edmonton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Edmonton $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Edmonton $202
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Edmonton

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Edmonton? 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 Edmonton


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 and Edmonton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Edmonton $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edmonton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $241
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG): $120
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton Hotels: $120
  • Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG) - Departure Private Transfer: $120
  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Arrival Private Transfer: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Edmonton?

Prices for flights to both Edmonton 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
    Edmonton $27

Typical Food Prices in Edmonton

Some typical examples of dining costs in Edmonton are as follows:


  • Snacks
    $7.26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Edmonton $91

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Luggage Storage Close to Cruise Terminal: $9.54
  • Beer Tasting Experience with 4 Beer Flight: $10
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Al's Ghost tour : a small group experience : $19
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • Galveston's Secrets of the Strand Walking Tour : $23
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $24
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $25
  • Dolphin-Watching Cruise: $25
  • Galveston Shadows Ghost Tour Adventure: $25
  • Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Edmonton

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Edmonton are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Edmonton River Valley Segway Tour: $44
  • Edmonton City Highlights 2 Hour E-Scooter Tour: $93
  • Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour, E-Bike Upgrade Avail.: $99
  • Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based: $4.00
  • Edmonton Food Bike Tour: $146
  • Edmonton Food Walk Tour: $102
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Rogers Place: $54
  • Edmonton River Valley 60-Minute Segway Adventure: $44
  • Edmonton River Valley 90-Minute Segway Adventure: $62
  • Edmonton Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • 3-Hour City Highlights Walking Tour With Guide: $4.02
  • City Bike Tour, Highlights and River Valley: $77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Edmonton -

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Edmonton

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group): $103


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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Edmonton?

Edmonton has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Edmonton, 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.