A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Juneau vs. Saskatoon for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Juneau or Saskatoon?

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

Should I visit Juneau or Saskatoon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Juneau

Juneau is a breathtaking, historic, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Juneau travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Juneau and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Juneau or Saskatoon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Juneau than Saskatoon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Juneau is better known for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saskatoon is more popular for its nightlife. Juneau is more touristy than Saskatoon and is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. Also, Juneau is famous for the Mendenhall Glacier. Saskatoon is well known for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Juneau different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Juneau or Saskatoon?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Juneau is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Juneau. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saskatoon. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.


Is the Food Better in Juneau or Saskatoon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Juneau is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Juneau. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Saskatoon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is Juneau or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saskatoon. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Juneau or Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Juneau is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Juneau is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Juneau or Saskatoon?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Juneau is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Juneau is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Saskatoon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is Juneau or Saskatoon More Beautiful?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Juneau is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Juneau or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Juneau
Saskatoon

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

Juneau is a very kid-friendly city. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly city. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.


Is Juneau or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Juneau is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Juneau is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

Saskatoon is a good city for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.

Is Juneau or Saskatoon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Juneau is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Saskatoon is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Juneau is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.

Is Juneau or Saskatoon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Both Juneau and Saskatoon offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.


Is Juneau or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Juneau
Saskatoon

Juneau is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

Juneau is a very walkable city. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

Saskatoon is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Juneau Worth Visiting? and Is Saskatoon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Juneau?

How long in Juneau or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Juneau and Saskatoon. In our opinion, Juneau has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Juneau than Saskatoon. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Juneau, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saskatoon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau than Saskatoon 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 Juneau.


  • How many days in Juneau or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Juneau 2-3 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Juneau or Saskatoon?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Juneau. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Saskatoon. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Juneau or Saskatoon?

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Saskatoon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Juneau or Saskatoon?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the breathtaking city of Juneau. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saskatoon. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Juneau or Saskatoon?

Juneau is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Saskatoon. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or Juneau?

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

  • Juneau Prices
    USA Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Juneau $196
    Saskatoon $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Juneau is $196, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $149. 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 Juneau and Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Juneau $88
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Juneau $176
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Juneau and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Juneau or Saskatoon? 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 Juneau


Hotels in Saskatoon


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: Juneau Hotel Prices and Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Juneau $38
    Saskatoon $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Juneau or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon and Juneau 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
    Juneau $85
    Saskatoon $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Juneau $17
    Saskatoon $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

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

  • City Highlights Bus Tour: $51
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour: $79
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $94
  • Historical Walking Tour of Abandoned Gold Rush Era City with AR: $99
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $123
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $123
  • Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo: $125
  • Tram, Trails and Ale Tour: $125
  • Juneau Highlights and Mendenhall Glacier Tour: $129
  • Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo: $145

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Juneau $16
    Saskatoon $9.60

Sample the Local Flavors in Juneau

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

  • Walking Pub Crawl in Downtown Juneau: $115
  • Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau's Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!: $159
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops: $159


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Juneau and Saskatoon, we can see that Juneau is more expensive. And not only is Saskatoon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saskatoon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saskatoon and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Juneau would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Juneau than you might in Saskatoon.

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


Which is Bigger, Juneau or Saskatoon?

Saskatoon has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Juneau and Saskatoon, 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.