A Travel Price Comparison for Canada Moncton vs. Whistler for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Moncton or Whistler?

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 Moncton and Whistler. 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.

Moncton

Moncton is a quaint, compact, and cultural city. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Moncton travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Whistler travel costs.

Moncton and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Moncton or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Moncton, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Moncton is more popular for its museums and attractions. Whistler is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Moncton is well known for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Moncton different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Moncton or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is a world-class destination for skiing. However, Moncton is not a skiing destination.

Whistler is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Moncton is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Moncton or Whistler?

Moncton
Whistler

Moncton is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Is the Food Better in Moncton or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Whistler has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Moncton or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is great for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Whistler for the nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.


Is Moncton or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is great for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Whistler to choose from. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Moncton is not a resort destination.

Is Moncton or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Whistler is well-known for its hiking and trekking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Moncton or Whistler?

Moncton
Whistler

If you're looking to go shopping, Moncton and Whistler both offer plenty of notable spots.

Moncton has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Whistler is a great destination for shopping. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.


Is Moncton or Whistler More Beautiful?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Moncton or Whistler Better for Families?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Whistler is very family-friendly. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Moncton or Whistler Better for Couples?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Whistler is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.


Is Moncton or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.

Is Moncton or Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Moncton
Whistler

Moncton and Whistler both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Public transit is generally limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Moncton or Whistler a more walkable city?

Moncton
Whistler

Whistler is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.


For even more information, also check out Is Moncton Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Moncton?

How long in Moncton or Whistler?

In either Moncton or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Moncton because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Moncton, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler than Moncton 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 Whistler.


  • How many days in Moncton or Whistler? Ideal Length of Stay
    Moncton 1-2 
    Whistler 3-5

One day in Moncton or Whistler?

The city of Moncton offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in Moncton or Whistler?

Moncton 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 Moncton, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Whistler, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Moncton or Whistler?

Moncton 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.

Whistler 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 Whistler has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Moncton or Whistler?

Moncton 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Whistler. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Whistler. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in Canada, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Whistler or Moncton?

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 Moncton is $148, while the average daily cost in Whistler is $146. 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 Moncton and Whistler in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Moncton $29
    Whistler $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Moncton $58
    Whistler $130
Compare Hotels in Moncton and Whistler

Looking for a hotel in Moncton or Whistler? 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 Moncton


Hotels in Whistler


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: Moncton Hotel Prices and Whistler Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Moncton -
    Whistler $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Whistler

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Whistler:

  • Private Transfer from Richmond BC to Whistler: $684
  • Private Transfer from Whistler to Downtown Vancouver: $560
  • Whistler to Vancouver Scenic Seaplane Transfer: One Way: $210
  • Vancouver Airport Private Transfer to Whistler: $133

Is it cheaper to fly into Moncton or Whistler?

Prices for flights to both Whistler and Moncton 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
    Moncton $97
    Whistler $52

Typical Food Prices in Whistler

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


  • Coffee at Starbucks
    $12
  • Tim Hortons Breakfast
    $12
  • Coffee at Timmy's
    $3.63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Whistler

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

  • Finer Things: 4-Course Dinner Tour in Whistler: $121
  • Finer Things Dinner Tour in Whistler: $155

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Moncton $79
    Whistler $78

Tours and Activities in Moncton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moncton.

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Typical Entertainment Prices in Whistler

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


  • Driving Range
    $15

Tours and Activities in Whistler

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

  • 2 Hour Late Afternoon Winter Zipline Adventure: $123
  • 2 Hour Wilderness Adventure Snowmobile Tour in Whistler: $197
  • 4 Tour Audio Adventure between Whistler & Lake Louise: $22
  • Audain Art Museum - Permanent Collection Public Guided Tours: $17
  • Audain Art Museum Admission Ticket: $17
  • Bear Safari 4x4 Adventure: $147
  • Call of the Wild ATV Tour: $162
  • Callaghan Cruiser Snowmobile Tour : $230
  • Family Snowmobile Tour in Whistler: $197
  • From Vancouver: Shannon Falls and Whistler Sightseeing Tour: $179
  • Full Day Ice Fishing Tour: $246
  • Guided Fishing Adventure in Whistler: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Moncton $4.54
    Whistler $8.72


When comparing the travel costs between Moncton and Whistler, we can see that Moncton is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Moncton or Whistler?

Moncton has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Moncton and Whistler, 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 Moncton or Whistler?

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 Moncton or Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler and Moncton during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Moncton in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Whistler for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Moncton is around the same temperature as Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Moncton in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. Moncton usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Moncton gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Moncton 19°C (66°F) 
    Whistler 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Moncton or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Moncton and Whistler. Most visitors come to Moncton for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Whistler because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Moncton is generally cooler than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Moncton average around 8°C (46°F), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Moncton usually receives less rain than Whistler. Moncton gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Moncton 8°C (46°F) 
    Whistler 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Moncton or Whistler in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Moncton as well as Whistler. The winter months attract visitors to Moncton because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

It's quite cold in Whistler in the winter. The weather in Moncton can be very cold. Moncton is much colder than Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Moncton averages around -8°C (17°F) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Moncton receives a lot of rain in the winter. Moncton usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Moncton gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Moncton -8°C (17°F) 
    Whistler 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Moncton or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler and Moncton are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Moncton in the spring. In the spring, Moncton is much colder than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Moncton in April average around 3°C (38°F), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. It's quite rainy in Moncton. In April, Moncton usually receives less rain than Whistler. Moncton gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Moncton 3°C (38°F) 
    Whistler 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Whistler and Moncton

Moncton Whistler
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 4°C (40°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 179 mm (7.1 in)
Mar -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Apr 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in) 9°C (49°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 234 mm (9.2 in)
Dec -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in) 4°C (40°F) 198 mm (7.8 in)