A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ketchikan vs. Halifax for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Ketchikan or Halifax?

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 Ketchikan and Halifax can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a cultural, historical, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Halifax travel costs.

Ketchikan and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Ketchikan or Halifax?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Ketchikan and Halifax are both popular with visitors, Ketchikan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ketchikan is more popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Halifax is known for its nightlife. Ketchikan is more touristy than Halifax and is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also home to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Halifax is popular for its maritime past.

How is Ketchikan different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ketchikan or Halifax?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Both Ketchikan and Halifax have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


Is the Food Better in Ketchikan or Halifax? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Ketchikan is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Ketchikan is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Ketchikan or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Halifax is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Halifax. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is Ketchikan or Halifax Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Ketchikan is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Ketchikan draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

Halifax is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ketchikan or Halifax?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Both Ketchikan and Halifax are good shopping destinations.

Ketchikan is a great destination for shopping. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Halifax. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Ketchikan or Halifax More Beautiful?

Ketchikan
Halifax

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

Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ketchikan or Halifax Better for Families?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Ketchikan is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Ketchikan is a very family-friendly destination. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


Is Ketchikan or Halifax Better for Couples?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Ketchikan is a very popular place for romance. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Ketchikan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

Halifax makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Ketchikan or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Both Ketchikan and Halifax are good destinations for backpackers.

Ketchikan is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

It's common for backpackers to visit Halifax. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Ketchikan or Halifax Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Halifax is very good for its public transit. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Halifax has a few public transit options. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.


Is Ketchikan or Halifax a more walkable city?

Ketchikan
Halifax

Ketchikan is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Ketchikan is very walkable. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

Halifax is a somewhat walkable place. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Ketchikan Worth Visiting? and Is Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Ketchikan?

How long in Ketchikan or Halifax?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ketchikan than Halifax 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 Ketchikan.


  • How many days in Ketchikan or Halifax? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ketchikan 1-3 
    Halifax 2-3

One day in Ketchikan or Halifax?

In Ketchikan, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Halifax. 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 Ketchikan or Halifax?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Halifax. 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 Ketchikan or Halifax?

Ketchikan is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Halifax. 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 Ketchikan or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ketchikan. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Ketchikan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Halifax 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax or Ketchikan?

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

  • Ketchikan Prices
    USA Prices
    Halifax Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ketchikan $259
    Halifax $137

The average daily cost (per person) in Ketchikan is $259, while the average daily cost in Halifax is $137. 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 Ketchikan and Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ketchikan $136
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ketchikan $272
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Ketchikan and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Ketchikan or Halifax? 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 Ketchikan


Hotels in Halifax


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: Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ketchikan $39
    Halifax $17
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Halifax

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Halifax Stanfield Airport YHZ: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Ketchikan or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax and Ketchikan 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
    Ketchikan $92
    Halifax $54
Typical Food Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Slice of Pie & Drink
    $5.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ketchikan

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ketchikan.

  • Alaskan Salmon Cooking Class & Dining Experience: $179

Typical Food Prices in Halifax

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


  • Bluenose II Restaurant
    $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Halifax

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

  • Peggy's Cove Small Group Night Tour with Dinner: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ketchikan $46
    Halifax $28
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Ticket to Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    $35
  • Duck Tour (one person)
    $38
  • Bear Viewing Tour
    $83

Tours and Activities in Ketchikan

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

  • “OVER THE TOP TOURS” city highlights, wildlife and more!: $100
  • 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour: $95
  • 2 Hour Custom Wildlife and Historical Tour: $100
  • 2 Hour Private Tour with locals ( Price up to 5): $300
  • 2 hr Private Custom Tour of Ketchikan (14 people) Wildlife + More: $250
  • 2.5 Hour Tour in Ketchikan on the Tongass Trolley: $85
  • 3 Hour Rainforest Walk & Totem Park Wild Wolf Tours: $125
  • Adventure Kart Expedition- Ketchikan, AK: $282
  • Alaska Bigfoot Adventures: $149
  • Alaska Historical Tour with Cruise Hike and Cultural Immersion: $260
  • Alaska Wildlife Safari and Sightseeing Tour: $137
  • Alaska Wildlife Waterfall Tours: $100

Tours and Activities in Halifax

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

  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • Georges Island National Historic Site Ferry Ticket: $16
  • Happy Hour Cruise with Live Music: $21
  • Guided Kayak Tour with Multiple Options: $29
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Party Cruise on the Harbour Queen: $42
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Tall Ship Harbor Sailing Cruise with Live Music: $42
  • Harbour Hopper City & Water Cruise in a Duck Boat: $56
  • Signature Adventure Sail: $56
  • Solar Waterfront Food/Drink Party Bike Experience: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ketchikan $23
    Halifax $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Ketchikan

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ketchikan:

  • Distillery Tour and Signature Bottle Infusion Experience: $149
  • Distillery Tour with Infusion Class: $161

Sample the Local Flavors in Halifax

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Halifax:

  • Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Lead by a Sommelier: $168


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ketchikan and Halifax, we can see that Ketchikan is more expensive. And not only is Halifax much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Halifax would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Halifax 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 Ketchikan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ketchikan than you might in Halifax.

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


Which is Bigger, Ketchikan or Halifax?

Halifax has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Ketchikan and Halifax, 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 Ketchikan or Halifax?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ketchikan or Halifax in the Summer?

Both Halifax and Ketchikan during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Halifax for the family-friendly experiences.

Ketchikan is cooler than Halifax in the summer. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 58°F (15°C) in July, and Halifax fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in July than Halifax. Ketchikan gets 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ketchikan 58°F (15°C) 
    Halifax 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Ketchikan or Halifax in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ketchikan and Halifax. Many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Halifax in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Ketchikan is cooler than Halifax. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ketchikan in October average around 46°F (8°C), and Halifax averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Halifax. Ketchikan gets 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ketchikan 46°F (8°C) 
    Halifax 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Ketchikan or Halifax in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ketchikan as well as Halifax. Many visitors come to Ketchikan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Halifax for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Halifax can be very cold during winter. Ketchikan can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Ketchikan is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Ketchikan average around 34°F (1°C), and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in January than Halifax. Ketchikan gets 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ketchikan 34°F (1°C) 
    Halifax -4°C (24°F)

Should I visit Ketchikan or Halifax in the Spring?

Both Halifax and Ketchikan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. Ketchikan is much warmer than Halifax in the spring. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 44°F (6°C) in April, and Halifax fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. In April, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Halifax. Ketchikan gets 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ketchikan 44°F (6°C) 
    Halifax 4°C (39°F)

Typical Weather for Halifax and Ketchikan

Ketchikan Halifax
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 34°F (1°C) 14.9 inches (379 mm) -4°C (24°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 38°F (3°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 39°F (4°C) 10.6 inches (270 mm) -1°C (31°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Apr 44°F (6°C) 11.3 inches (286 mm) 4°C (39°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 49°F (9°C) 9.3 inches (237 mm) 9°C (48°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Jun 54°F (12°C) 8.2 inches (209 mm) 14°C (57°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Jul 58°F (15°C) 7.6 inches (193 mm) 18°C (64°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 59°F (15°C) 11.1 inches (281 mm) 18°C (65°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 54°F (12°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm) 15°C (58°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Oct 46°F (8°C) 22.9 inches (581 mm) 10°C (49°F) 121 mm (4.7 in)
Nov 40°F (4°C) 17.3 inches (441 mm) 5°C (40°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 15.7 inches (398 mm) -1°C (29°F) 152 mm (6 in)