A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Monterey vs. Seattle for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Monterey or Seattle?

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 Monterey and Seattle. 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Monterey travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Seattle offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and beaches. See Seattle travel costs.

Monterey and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Monterey or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Monterey and Seattle are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its theatre productions, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Monterey attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and shopping. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle.

How is Monterey different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Monterey or Seattle?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Seattle and Monterey.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Monterey is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Monterey is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Monterey or Seattle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Monterey and Seattle can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Seattle makes for a great culinary experience. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Monterey and Seattle.

Monterey has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Seattle is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Monterey is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Monterey is not a live music destination.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Monterey and Seattle both offer nice beaches.

Monterey offers a nice beach destination. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Seattle?

Monterey is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Monterey or Seattle More Beautiful?

Seattle is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Seattle offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Families?

Monterey is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Monterey is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Couples?

Monterey is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Monterey is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey and Seattle are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Monterey is not popular with students.

Is Monterey or Seattle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seattle is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Monterey or Seattle a more walkable city?

Monterey and Seattle are great when it comes to walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Monterey Worth Visiting? and Is Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Monterey?

How long in Monterey or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Monterey and Seattle. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seattle than Monterey. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Monterey, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Monterey 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 Seattle.

One day in Monterey or Seattle?

In Monterey, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Seattle is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Monterey or Seattle?

In Monterey, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monterey has to offer.

Seattle 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Monterey or Seattle?

Monterey is a great place to explore. 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.

Seattle 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 Monterey or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Monterey. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Monterey and Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Monterey Expensive? and Is Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Monterey or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Monterey and Seattle, 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 Monterey or Seattle?

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 Monterey or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Monterey as well as Seattle. Many visitors come to Monterey in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Monterey is cooler than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

Monterey usually gets less rain in July than Seattle. Monterey gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Monterey are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Monterey for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Monterey is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Monterey in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In October, Monterey usually receives less rain than Seattle. Monterey gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Monterey or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Monterey during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Monterey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In January, Monterey is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 51°F (11°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Seattle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Monterey usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Monterey gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Monterey and Seattle. The beaches are the main draw to Monterey this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Monterey is a little warmer than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Monterey usually receives less rain than Seattle. Monterey gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Monterey