A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Key West vs. Halifax for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Key West or Halifax?

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

Should I visit Key West or Halifax? 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.

Key West

Key West is a quirky, eclectic, and bustling town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Key West travel costs.

Halifax

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

Key West and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Halifax?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Halifax are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Halifax attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Halifax and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Halifax is famous for its maritime past.

How is Key West different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Halifax?

Halifax is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Key West has a large number of nightlife venues. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Key West or Halifax Better for Resorts?

Key West is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Halifax is not a resort destination.

Key West is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Halifax is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Halifax Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Halifax is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Halifax is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Halifax Better for Beaches?

Key West is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Halifax is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Key West. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Halifax is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Halifax Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Halifax does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Key West to see the historical old town. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Halifax does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Halifax?

Halifax is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Halifax More Beautiful?

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

Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Halifax Better for Families?

Key West 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.

Key West is a very family-friendly destination. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Halifax Better for Couples?

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

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Halifax is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Halifax Better for Students?

Key West is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Halifax is not popular with students.

Key West is a great town to visit as a student. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Halifax is not popular with students.

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

Halifax is a popular place for its public transit. However, Key West 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 quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Halifax a more walkable city?

Key West and Halifax both are nice when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Key West?

How long in Key West or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Halifax. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

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

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

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

One day in Key West or Halifax?

In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Halifax offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Key West or Halifax?

In Key West, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Halifax is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Halifax, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Halifax?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Halifax is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Halifax is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Halifax, we can see that Key West 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West 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 Key West Expensive? and Is Halifax Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Halifax?

Halifax has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West 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 Key West or Halifax in the Summer?

Both Halifax and Key West during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Halifax in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Key West is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Halifax, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the summer, Key West often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in July than Halifax. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Halifax in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Halifax. Many visitors come to Key West in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Halifax for the shopping scene during these months.

Key West is much warmer than Halifax in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Halifax fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key West usually receives around the same amount of rain as Halifax. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Key West or Halifax in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key West as well as Halifax. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Halifax because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Halifax averages at about -4°C (24°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Key West usually gets less rain in January than Halifax. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Halifax in the Spring?

Both Halifax and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Halifax in the spring. In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Halifax. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Halifax and Key West