A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Los Angeles vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Los Angeles or Vancouver?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Los Angeles and Vancouver. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a energetic, dynamic, and glamourous city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a outdoorsy, scenic, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Vancouver travel costs.

Los Angeles and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Vancouver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Los Angeles than Vancouver. Los Angeles is bigger than Vancouver, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Vancouver is more popular for its impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Vancouver and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere.

How is Los Angeles different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or Vancouver?

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Vancouver and Los Angeles.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Los Angeles has many famous sights for visitors. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Vancouver that are not to be missed. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is great for theatre. However, Vancouver is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Vancouver is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Los Angeles or Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Los Angeles, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Los Angeles is a world class party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Vancouver has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Music?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Vancouver is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Vancouver is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is great for its luxury resorts. However, Vancouver is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Vancouver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Vancouver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Los Angeles and Vancouver, and they are terrific.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

People visit Vancouver specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Vancouver?

Shoppers can find a variety of terrific stores in both Los Angeles and Vancouver.

Many people travel to Los Angeles specifically to go shopping. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Vancouver is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Vancouver is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Families?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly city. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Los Angeles and Vancouver both terrific destinations for a couple.

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Vancouver makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles and Vancouver are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Students?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Vancouver is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vancouver is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Vancouver has a great public transit system. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Los Angeles or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vancouver. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? and Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Vancouver?

In either Los Angeles or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than Vancouver because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Los Angeles, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Vancouver 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Vancouver?

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Vancouver. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Vancouver?

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse big city of Vancouver. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Los Angeles or Vancouver?

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse city of Vancouver. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Los Angeles or Vancouver?

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vancouver. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Vancouver?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Vancouver. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles and Vancouver, 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 Los Angeles or Vancouver?

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 Los Angeles or Vancouver in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Los Angeles and Vancouver. The summer months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

In the summer, Los Angeles is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in Los Angeles in July average around 72°F (22°C), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In July, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Los Angeles gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Vancouver in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Los Angeles as well as Vancouver. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vancouver for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Los Angeles is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 64°F (18°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Los Angeles usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Los Angeles gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Vancouver in the Winter?

Both Vancouver and Los Angeles are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Vancouver in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vancouver can get quite cold in the winter. Los Angeles is much warmer than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 55°F (13°C) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vancouver. In January, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Los Angeles gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Vancouver in the Spring?

Both Vancouver and Los Angeles during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Los Angeles in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Los Angeles is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in Los Angeles in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Los Angeles usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Los Angeles gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Los Angeles