A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Miami vs. Ottawa for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Miami or Ottawa?

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 Miami and Ottawa can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a glamorous, exciting, and diverse beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Miami travel costs.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a cultural, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Ottawa travel costs.

Miami and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Ottawa?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Miami than Ottawa. While Ottawa is larger than Miami, Miami has more sights and attractions for tourists. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Ottawa is more popular for its museums and attractions. Miami is more touristy than Ottawa and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Ottawa is well known for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Miami different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or Ottawa?

Ottawa is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Ottawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Miami or Ottawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Miami is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa is lacking in good options for nightlife.

People head to Miami just to party. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Music?

Miami is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Ottawa is not a live music destination.

Miami has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Ottawa is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Resorts?

Miami is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ottawa is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Miami is a great choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Ottawa is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Beaches?

Miami is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Miami. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Ottawa?

Miami is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Miami specifically to go shopping. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Ottawa is a great destination for shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Miami. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Miami is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Miami makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami and Ottawa are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Miami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ottawa. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Students?

Miami and Ottawa are notable places to visit for students.

Miami is popular with students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

It's common for students to visit Ottawa. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Is Miami or Ottawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Miami and Ottawa.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

While Ottawa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

Is Miami or Ottawa a more walkable city?

Miami is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Miami is a very walkable destination. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

Ottawa is somewhat walkable. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Ottawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Miami?

How long in Miami or Ottawa?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than Ottawa 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 Miami.

One day in Miami or Ottawa?

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Ottawa, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Ottawa?

Miami is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ottawa. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Ottawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Ottawa is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Ottawa. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Miami or Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the exciting big city of Miami. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the welcoming destination of Ottawa. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Ottawa?

Ottawa has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Miami and Ottawa, 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 Miami or Ottawa?

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 Miami or Ottawa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Miami as well as Ottawa. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Ottawa because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally a little warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ottawa. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the summer, Miami often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun.

Miami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Miami usually gets more rain in July than Ottawa. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Ottawa in the Autumn?

Both Ottawa and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Miami because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Ottawa this time of year.

Miami is much warmer than Ottawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Ottawa fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during autumn. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Miami. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Miami or Ottawa in the Winter?

Both Ottawa and Miami during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ottawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ottawa. In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Ottawa averages at about -10°C (14°F).

It's quite sunny in Miami. In the winter, Miami often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets more rain in January than Ottawa. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Ottawa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Ottawa. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Miami usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Miami