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

Should you visit Galveston or Toronto?

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

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Galveston travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a diverse, vibrant, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Toronto travel costs.

Galveston and Toronto: 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 for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Galveston or Toronto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toronto than Galveston. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Toronto is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Galveston attracts visitors for its beaches, historical sights, and small town charm. Galveston is famous for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. Toronto is famous for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also well known for the CN Tower.

How is Galveston different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Galveston
Toronto

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Toronto are world-renowned. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Galveston can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.


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

Galveston
Toronto

Toronto 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.

Toronto has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

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 Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Toronto

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Toronto has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

Galveston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Galveston or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Toronto

Galveston is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Toronto is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Galveston. 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.

Toronto is not a beach destination.


Is Galveston or Toronto Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Toronto

Galveston is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Toronto does not have a historic old town.

Galveston is a good destination for visiting its 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.

Toronto does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Toronto?

Galveston
Toronto

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Toronto draws large crowds to its stores. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

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 Toronto Better for Families?

Galveston
Toronto

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Galveston or Toronto.

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.

Toronto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.


Is Galveston or Toronto Better for Couples?

Galveston
Toronto

Both Galveston and Toronto are superb 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.

Toronto is a very popular place to visit for couples. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Galveston or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galveston
Toronto

Toronto is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Galveston or Toronto Better for Students?

Galveston
Toronto

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Toronto. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Galveston is not popular with students.


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

Galveston
Toronto

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Toronto is top-notch. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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 Toronto a more walkable city?

Galveston
Toronto

Toronto is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Toronto is a very walkable city. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Toronto?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Galveston or Toronto?

In Galveston, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

People visit Toronto because there is so much to do. 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 Toronto?

In Galveston, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Galveston has to offer.

People visit Toronto because there is so much to do. 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 Galveston or Toronto?

Galveston is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

People visit Toronto because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Galveston or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galveston. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galveston. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Toronto is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Toronto, 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 Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Toronto 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
    Toronto Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Galveston $221
    Toronto $249

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $221, while the average daily cost in Toronto is $249. 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 Toronto in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Toronto $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Toronto $172
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Toronto

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Toronto? 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 Toronto


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 Toronto Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Toronto $32

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Toronto

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Toronto are as follows:


  • Airport Shuttle
    $26
  • Train: 2 Day Passes
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toronto

Also for Toronto, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) Transfer to Downtown Montreal: $1,618
  • Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) Transfer to Kingston: $856
  • Private Transfer to Kingston City or Queen's Unive…: $816
  • Niagara Falls: Private Transfer to/from Toronto Airport: $700
  • Pearson Airport to Blue Mountain Resort Transfer: $666
  • Low cost Transfer: Toronto Downtown to Niagara Falls (Lake): $657
  • Guided layover and stopover tour with transfers.: $500
  • Pvt. Transfer St. Catharines Airport to Pearson Int Airport: $476
  • Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) Transfer to Niagara Falls: $442
  • Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) Transfer to Port Hope: $439
  • Private Transfer to and from Kitchener Waterloo Region - Toronto Pearson Airport: $294
  • Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) Transfer to Hamilton: $281

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Toronto?

Prices for flights to both Toronto 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
    Toronto $112

Typical Food Prices in Toronto

For Toronto, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch at St. Lawrence Market for Two
    $23
  • Dinner at Mill Street Brewery (for 2)
    $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toronto

For Toronto, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Premium Harbor Cruise with Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner: $46
  • Great White North Food Tour: $54
  • Great White North Toronto Food Tour: $55
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery: $61
  • Toronto Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Toronto Premier Dinner Cruise on Odyssey in Toronto Harbour: $66
  • St Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $71
  • Kensington Market 'Taste the World' Food Tour: $72
  • Must-Do Toronto Food Tour by Toronto's First Food Tour Company: $73
  • St Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $78
  • French Bistro Cooking Class in Toronto (Includes 3-Course Meal): $80
  • Niagara Falls Evening Tour with Boat, Journey, Dinner & Fireworks: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Toronto $31

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Toronto

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Toronto's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Gallery of Ontario for Two
    $15
  • CN Tower at night for Two
    $36
  • Harbour Dinner Cruise
    $26
  • Bata Shoe Museum (2)
    $7.26

Tours and Activities in Toronto

For Toronto, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Casual Tour of Toronto by Land, Sky and Sea: $111
  • 1 Day City Sightseeing Tour at Toronto City: $69
  • 1-Hour Private Guided Photography Tour in Toronto: $296
  • 1-Hour Toronto Harbour Tour with Live Narration: $25
  • 14-Minute Helicopter Tour Over Toronto: $240
  • 3hr Shared Sailing Adventure: $177
  • 60-Minute Toronto Sightseeing Harbour Tour: $28
  • 7-Minute Helicopter Tour over Toronto: $135
  • Action Film and Television Locations Half Day Tour in Toronto: $150
  • Admission Ticket: Explore Canada in Miniature Scale: $33
  • Algonquin Park Hiking: Adventure Tour from Toronto: $151
  • Algonquin Park and Ragged Falls Hike and Canoe Adventure: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Toronto $22

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 Toronto

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toronto:

  • Distillery District Historic Walking Tour: $20
  • Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting: $25
  • Illuminarium Toronto in the Distillery District: $26
  • Distillery & Old Town Private Walking Tour: $28
  • Short Distillery District Segway Tour: $35
  • 30-Minute Distillery District Segway Tour: $36
  • Toronto Distillery & Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide: $42
  • Toronto Distillery District Self-Guided Walking Tour: $43
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $44
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $44
  • Distillery District Breakfast Walking Tour: $53
  • Distillery District Breakfast Tour: $54


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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Toronto, 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 Galveston or Toronto?

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 Toronto in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Toronto. Many travelers come to Galveston for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Toronto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 84°F (29°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In July, Galveston usually receives more rain than Toronto. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Toronto 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Galveston or Toronto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Toronto. Many visitors come to Galveston in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, most visitors come to Toronto for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Galveston is much warmer than Toronto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Galveston usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Toronto. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Toronto 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Galveston or Toronto in the Winter?

Both Toronto and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Toronto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Toronto can be very cold. In the winter, Galveston is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galveston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Toronto averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In January, Galveston usually receives more rain than Toronto. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Toronto -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Galveston or Toronto in the Spring?

Both Toronto and Galveston during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches and the small town charm. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

In April, Galveston is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 70°F (21°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Galveston usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Toronto. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Toronto 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Toronto and Galveston

Galveston Toronto
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) -4°C (25°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) -4°C (26°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 1°C (34°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 12°C (54°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 18°C (64°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 21°C (70°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 21°C (69°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 11°C (51°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) -1°C (30°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)