A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Islamorada vs. Victoria for Families, Couples, Food, and Attractions

Should you visit Islamorada or Victoria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Victoria, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, Islamorada attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Islamorada travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a scenic, relaxing, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Victoria travel costs.

Islamorada and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Victoria?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Victoria, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Victoria is more popular for its hiking. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Victoria is well known for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Islamorada different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Islamorada
Victoria

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Islamorada or Victoria.

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

Victoria offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Islamorada or Victoria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Islamorada
Victoria

Islamorada is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Islamorada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Islamorada or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Victoria

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Islamorada and Victoria.

If you're looking for night time activities Islamorada has a few options to choose from. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Is Islamorada or Victoria Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Victoria

Islamorada is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Victoria is not a resort destination.

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Victoria is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Victoria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Victoria

Islamorada is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Victoria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Islamorada. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Victoria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Victoria Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Victoria

Islamorada is a very popular place for the beach. However, Victoria is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Islamorada for it's beautiful beaches. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Victoria is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Victoria

Victoria is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Victoria has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Victoria?

Islamorada
Victoria

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Victoria both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Victoria offers some nice shopping areas. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Is Islamorada or Victoria More Beautiful?

Islamorada
Victoria

Islamorada is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Islamorada attracts visitors from all around. Striking blue water and white sand make this a truly tropical paradise. You can sip frozen drinks and relax in the sun as your troubles slip away.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Islamorada or Victoria Better for Families?

Islamorada
Victoria

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Islamorada is very family-friendly. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

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


Is Islamorada or Victoria Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Victoria

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for couples. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Islamorada is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

Couples visit Victoria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Islamorada or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Victoria

Victoria is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

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

Islamorada
Victoria

Victoria is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known 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 Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.


Is Islamorada or Victoria a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Victoria

Victoria is a great city for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Islamorada or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Islamorada due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Victoria than Islamorada 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 Victoria.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Victoria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Victoria 3-4

One day in Islamorada or Victoria?

The beautiful village of Islamorada offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the scenic city of Victoria, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Victoria?

Islamorada is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Victoria, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Islamorada or Victoria?

Islamorada is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Islamorada, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Victoria, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Victoria?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Islamorada has to offer. This village offers something for everyone.

Victoria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Islamorada?

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

  • Islamorada Prices
    USA Prices
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Islamorada $179
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $179, while the average daily cost in Victoria is $201. 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 Islamorada and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Victoria? 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 Islamorada


Hotels in Victoria


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: Islamorada Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Victoria $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Victoria

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

  • Private Cruise Transfer with City Sightseeing Tour: $682
  • Victoria to Vancouver Scenic Seaplane Transfer: One Way: $289
  • Private Transfer from Victoria City Hotels to Nanaimo Cruise Port: $130
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer: $77
  • Victoria to Vancouver Ferry with Bus Transfer: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $81
    Victoria $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Victoria

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

  • Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings: $86
  • Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria: $88
  • Vistas and Views Food Tour with 3-Course Meal: $100
  • Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour: $144
  • Gourmet Dinner Tour Including Local Beer, Wine and City Highlights: $219

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 1.5 Hour (20 miles) Waverunner Tour. See Mangrove Tunnels, 20 Islands & SandBar: $259
  • 2 Hour Private Eco-Tour: $950
  • From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour: $1,515
  • Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Sandbar: $950
  • Private Snorkel & Sandbar Adventure: $599

Tours and Activities in Victoria

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

  • 60-Minute Beacon Hill Park Tour: $227
  • 60-minute Haunted Halloween Tour: $227
  • 75-Minute The Royal Tour: $279
  • Beacon Hill Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Experience in Victoria: $227
  • Butchart & Beyond: The Grand Victoria Tour: $355
  • COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix: $104
  • Chinatown and Hidden Alleys Pedicab Tour: $92
  • Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour: $88
  • East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour with a Bite and Beer: $128
  • Eat Like a Canadian Food & Sightseeing Tour: $59
  • From Vancouver: Victoria Tour with Ferry & Butchart Gardens: $186
  • From Whale Watching Tour by Zodiac Boat: $136

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Victoria $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Victoria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Victoria:

  • Victoria BC: Tour & Tasting Around Award Winning Distillery: $21
  • Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers: $52
  • Local Brewery Tour with a Guide: $86
  • Victoria, BC: Food & Wine Tour to the Cowichan Valley: $118
  • 6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour: $126
  • Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie: $132
  • Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour : $143
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


When comparing the travel costs between Islamorada and Victoria, we can see that Victoria 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 Islamorada Expensive? and Is Victoria Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Victoria?

Victoria has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Victoria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Victoria. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Victoria in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In July, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Victoria. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Victoria 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Islamorada or Victoria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Victoria. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Islamorada is much warmer than Victoria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Victoria fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Islamorada receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Victoria. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Victoria 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Islamorada or Victoria in the Winter?

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

The weather in Victoria can be very cold. In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Victoria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Victoria averages at about 5°C (41°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Victoria. In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Victoria. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Victoria 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Islamorada or Victoria in the Spring?

Both Victoria and Islamorada during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Victoria. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Victoria 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Victoria and Islamorada

Islamorada Victoria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 5°C (41°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 7°C (44°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 10°C (49°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 12°C (54°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 14°C (58°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 16°C (60°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 16°C (61°F) 19 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 8°C (46°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 5°C (42°F) 153 mm (6 in)