A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nashville vs. Whistler for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Nashville or Whistler?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nashville and Whistler 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.

Nashville

Nashville is a eclectic, southern, and country music lovers city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Nashville travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and charming village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food. See Whistler travel costs.

Nashville and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Nashville or Whistler?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nashville. Although Nashville and Whistler are both popular with visitors, Nashville has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nashville is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, and big city activities, while Whistler is known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Whistler is more touristy than Nashville and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Nashville is popular for its influence in country music and its many live music venues. It is also home to The Grand Ole Opry.

How is Nashville different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nashville or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Nashville is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Whistler. 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.

Nashville is not a skiing destination.


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

Nashville
Whistler

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

Nashville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash 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 Nashville or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nashville
Whistler

Foodies will find both Nashville and Whistler both to be high quality destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Nashville. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Whistler. 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.

Is Nashville or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Nashville
Whistler

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Nashville and Whistler.

Nashville has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

Whistler is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.


Is Nashville or Whistler Better for Music?

Nashville
Whistler

Nashville is renowned for live music. However, Whistler is not a live music destination.

Nashville is a world class music destination. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Whistler is not a live music destination.

Is Nashville or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

In Whistler, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Nashville makes a nice vacation spot. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Is Nashville or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Nashville is not a hiking destination.

Around Whistler visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Nashville is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nashville or Whistler?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a village with good options for shopping. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

If you're looking to go shopping, Nashville has some nice offerings. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Is Nashville or Whistler More Beautiful?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Nashville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Nashville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nashville or Whistler Better for Families?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is an extremely popular village to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.


Is Nashville or Whistler Better for Couples?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a very popular place for romance. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Nashville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.

Is Nashville or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Whistler is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nashville. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

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

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.


Is Nashville or Whistler a more walkable city?

Nashville
Whistler

Whistler is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Nashville is not a walkable city. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Nashville?

How long in Nashville or Whistler?

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

Families should spend more time in Whistler than Nashville. 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 Nashville. 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 Nashville 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 Nashville or Whistler? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nashville 2-3 
    Whistler 3-5

One day in Nashville or Whistler?

The city of Nashville offers live music and food. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the village of Whistler. 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.

A weekend in Nashville or Whistler?

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

You'll find shopping and skiing around the charming destination of Whistler. 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 village offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nashville or Whistler?

Nashville is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the outdoorsy village of Whistler. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

A week in Nashville or Whistler?

Nashville is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Whistler or Nashville?

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

  • Nashville Prices
    USA Prices
    Whistler Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nashville $202
    Whistler $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Nashville is $202, 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 Nashville and Whistler in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nashville $99
    Whistler $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nashville $198
    Whistler $130
Compare Hotels in Nashville and Whistler

Looking for a hotel in Nashville 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 Nashville


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: Nashville Hotel Prices and Whistler Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nashville $21
    Whistler $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nashville

Also for Nashville, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $60
  • Airport to Downtown Private Transfer: $70
  • Nashville Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Nashville: $90
  • Transfer from John C Tune Airport-JWN: $150

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Whistler

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Whistler:

  • Vancouver Airport Private Transfer to Whistler: $133
  • Private Transfer from Whistler to Downtown Vancouver: $560
  • Private Transfer from Richmond BC to Whistler: $684

Is it cheaper to fly into Nashville or Whistler?

Prices for flights to both Whistler and Nashville 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
    Nashville $72
    Whistler $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nashville

For Nashville, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • East Nashville Walking Food Tour with 5+ Tastings: $96
  • The Gulch Walking & Tasting Food Tour: $98
  • Secret Food Tour Nashville - 12South: $104
  • East Nashville Guided Walking Food Tour: $145
  • Dishing on Downtown: Nashville Food Tour: $145
  • Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Food Tour: $189

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.
    Nashville $27
    Whistler $78

Tours and Activities in Nashville

For Nashville, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Factory Tour: $8.74
  • Music History Guided Walking Tour: $10
  • Legends of Country Music Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Hatch Show Print Shop Guided Tour: $23
  • Haunted History Walking Tour with Guide: $25
  • Nashville's Wildest Honky Tonk Party Bus | Public Tour (21+): $25
  • Nightmare & Hauntings of Music City Nashville Ghost Tour: $27
  • Madame Tussauds Admission Ticket: $30
  • True Crime Walking Tour from Mr. E's Crimecast: $30
  • Guided Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $30
  • Ryman Auditorium Self-Guided Tour: $30
  • Battle at Belle Meade Civil War Tour: $32

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: $124
  • 2 Hour Wilderness Adventure Snowmobile Tour in Whistler: $199
  • Audain Art Museum Admission Ticket: $17
  • Bear Safari 4x4 Adventure: $147
  • Call of the Wild ATV Tour: $162
  • Family Snowmobile Tour in Whistler: $199
  • From Vancouver: Shannon Falls and Whistler Sightseeing Tour: $179
  • Full Day Ice Fishing Tour: $246
  • Guided Fishing Adventure in Whistler: $163
  • Ice Fishing Adventure in Whistler: $163
  • Mountain Breeze Tour - Mountain E Bike - Whistler Marmot Activity: $104
  • One Hour Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Whistler: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nashville $15
    Whistler $8.72

Sample the Local Flavors in Nashville

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nashville:

  • Music City Pub Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl: $33
  • Seeking Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Live Music Bar Crawl with Local Artists: $35
  • Music History and Moonshine Pub Crawl: $35
  • Revelry Tours Nashville Bordellos, Burlesque, and Blood Tour: $35
  • Murder Mystery Interactive Party Game & Pub Crawl: $38
  • Nashville's Haunted Spirits Murder & True Crime Pub Crawl: $38
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Brewery Trolley Tour: $45
  • Nashville Bar Crawl: Guided Pub Crawl with Drinks Discounts: $48
  • Nashville's Speakeasy Secrets: True Crime Tasting Pub Crawl: $55


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nashville or Whistler?

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Nashville 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 Nashville 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 Nashville or Whistler in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nashville as well as Whistler. Most visitors come to Nashville for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Whistler because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nashville is much warmer than Whistler in the summer. The daily temperature in Nashville averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Whistler. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nashville this time of the year. In the summer, Nashville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler. Nashville gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

Nashville usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Nashville gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nashville 81°F (27°C) 
    Whistler 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Nashville or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Nashville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Nashville because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In the autumn, Nashville is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nashville in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Whistler averages at about 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nashville. Nashville usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Nashville gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In October, Nashville usually receives less rain than Whistler. Nashville gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nashville 62°F (17°C) 
    Whistler 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Nashville or Whistler in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Whistler. It's quite cold in Nashville in the winter. In January, Nashville is generally cooler than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Nashville average around 38°F (4°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Nashville often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Nashville gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nashville usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Nashville gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nashville 38°F (4°C) 
    Whistler 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Nashville or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nashville and Whistler. Many travelers come to Nashville for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Whistler in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Nashville is much warmer than Whistler in the spring. The daily temperature in Nashville averages around 62°F (16°C) in April, and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In Nashville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nashville usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. Nashville gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nashville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Nashville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Whistler. Nashville gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nashville 62°F (16°C) 
    Whistler 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Whistler and Nashville

Nashville Whistler
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 38°F (4°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 4°C (40°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 6°C (42°F) 179 mm (7.1 in)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 7°C (45°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Apr 62°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 9°C (49°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 13°C (55°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 16°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 74°F (23°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 15°C (59°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 11°C (51°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Nov 52°F (11°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 7°C (44°F) 234 mm (9.2 in)
Dec 43°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 4°C (40°F) 198 mm (7.8 in)