A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Calgary for Attractions, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit La Paz or Calgary?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Calgary can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a beautiful, authentic, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See La Paz travel costs.

Calgary

Calgary is a local, authentic, and western city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Calgary travel costs.

La Paz and Calgary: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
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
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Calgary?

Visitors will generally find more to do in La Paz than Calgary. While Calgary is larger than La Paz, La Paz has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. La Paz is well known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. Also, La Paz is famous for Balandra Beach. Calgary is well known for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.

How is La Paz different from Calgary?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Calgary?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit La Paz. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.

Is La Paz or Calgary Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Calgary

Evening events are notable in both La Paz and Calgary.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Calgary. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.

Is La Paz or Calgary Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Calgary is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, La Paz makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Calgary is not a resort destination.


Is La Paz or Calgary Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Calgary is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

La Paz is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Calgary is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Calgary Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Calgary is not a beach destination.

La Paz is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Calgary is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Calgary?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

La Paz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Calgary has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.


Is La Paz or Calgary Better for Families?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.

Is La Paz or Calgary Better for Couples?

La Paz
Calgary

Both La Paz and Calgary are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

La Paz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Calgary is a good city for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.

Is La Paz or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is well known for backpackers. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

La Paz is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.


Is La Paz or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz
Calgary

Both La Paz and Calgary offer notable public transit options.

La Paz has a few public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Calgary has some public transit options. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.

Is La Paz or Calgary a more walkable city?

La Paz
Calgary

La Paz is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

La Paz is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable.

Calgary is generally not a very walkable city. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.

For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Calgary or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Calgary?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in La Paz or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in La Paz than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Calgary 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Calgary? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Calgary 1-2

One day in La Paz or Calgary?

In La Paz, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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


A weekend in La Paz or Calgary?

In La Paz, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Paz has to offer.

Calgary 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 La Paz or Calgary?

La Paz is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Calgary. 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 La Paz or Calgary?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting La Paz. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the western destination of Calgary. 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 Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Calgary or La Paz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Calgary is $177. 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 La Paz and Calgary in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Calgary $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Calgary $146
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Calgary

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Calgary? 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 La Paz


Hotels in Calgary


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Calgary Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Calgary $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159
  • La Paz hotels to La Paz International Airport (LAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:

  • Calgary Airport Transfer to/from Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise: $45
  • Calgary Airport and Calgary Hotels Best Local Private Transfer: $51
  • Experience Private Airport Transfer in Calgary: $51
  • Transfer from Calgary Airport: $51
  • From Bus Transfer to Banff: $60
  • Banff Lake Louise or Canmore and Calgary Private Shuttle Transfer: $60
  • Alberta Transfer: Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Calgary: $62
  • Calgary Airport to Banff and Beyond Transfer Service: $65
  • Private Transfers during Calgary Stampede: $72
  • Calgary Downtown Transfers: $86
  • Prvt. Transfer YYC Airport to WinSport Olympic Park: $86
  • Calgary hotel or address to Calgary Airport (YYC) - Departure Private Transfer: $100

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Calgary?

Prices for flights to both Calgary and La Paz 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
    La Paz $60
    Calgary $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

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

  • 3 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $77
  • 3 hrs SEAFOOD Tour in La Paz: $103

Typical Food Prices in Calgary

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:


  • Bread, Chips, Cheese
    $8.10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary

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

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $62
  • Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
  • Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $80
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $127
  • Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $11
    Calgary $15

Tours and Activities in La Paz

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

  • Mural and Sculpture Art Tour at the Peace Center: $40
  • Coral Farm Snorkel Tour: $55
  • Pearl Farm Experience and shop: $65
  • Half Day Sandboarding and Paddleboarding Experience in La Paz: $83
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • RZR Tour of Mogote Dunes and Sandboarding: $103
  • Unique Mexican Spirits Tasting & Pairing Experience: $105
  • holy spirit island tour: $108
  • La Paz Beaches Half Day Tour: $111
  • Holy Spirit Island Tour Sea Lions Snorkeling and Beach: $111
  • Most Popular Tour in La Paz Isla Espíritu Santo and Sea Lions: $122
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $122

Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary

Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Stampede Admission (for 2)
    $22

Tours and Activities in Calgary

Here are a few actual costs in Calgary for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 3-Hour: $4.02
  • Calgary City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based : $5.00
  • Downtown Calgary a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.63
  • Sam Centre Calgary Stampede Museum Ticket: $7.18
  • Discover Calgary with 3 Smartphone Audio Walking Tours: $15
  • Calgary Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • Rockies Trio: 3 Self Guided Smartphone Audio Tours Bundle: $17
  • Fun Selfie Experience in Calgary: $18
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Calgary with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour: $21
  • Shared Tour from Calgary to Moraine, Lake Louise and Emerald Lake: $28
  • Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $28

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Calgary $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary

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

  • Brewery Tours at Award Winning Venues: $82
  • Calgary Brewery Tour: $88


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

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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Calgary?

Calgary has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of La Paz. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Calgary, 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.