A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newport vs. Victoria for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Newport or Victoria?

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 Newport and Victoria can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newport

Newport is a seaside, historical, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Newport travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Victoria travel costs.

Newport and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Newport or Victoria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Newport and Victoria are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Victoria attracts visitors for its hiking. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street. Victoria is famous for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Newport different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newport or Victoria?

Newport
Victoria

Newport is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Victoria is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.


Is the Food Better in Newport or Victoria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newport
Victoria

Newport is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Newport or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Newport
Victoria

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newport and Victoria.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Victoria has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a good number of bars and pubs around town. Most offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink in a casual setting.

Is Newport or Victoria Better for Beaches?

Newport
Victoria

Newport is a very popular place for the beach. However, Victoria is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Newport for it's beautiful beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Victoria is not a beach destination.


Is Newport or Victoria Better for its Old Town?

Newport
Victoria

Newport is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Victoria does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Victoria does not have a historic old town.

Is Newport or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Newport
Victoria

Victoria is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Victoria. There are many outdoor spaces and parks that offer local hiking trails. This is a great way to experience the scenic beauty of the area.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Victoria?

Newport
Victoria

Newport is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Victoria is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.


Is Newport or Victoria More Beautiful?

Newport
Victoria

Newport is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Newport or Victoria Better for Families?

Newport
Victoria

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Newport or Victoria.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Victoria is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside and get the energy out. Walking trails are popular. You can also do the Malahat SkyWalk which offers impressive views. Cadboro-Gyro Park has a playground, zip-line, and picnic areas. Another hightlight for kids is a visit to the Beacon Hill Children's Farm. If the weather isn't cooperating, you can visit the BC Aviation Museum.

Is Newport or Victoria Better for Couples?

Newport
Victoria

Newport is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Couples visit Victoria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city offers many great activities for couples such as a visit to Hatley Park and Castle. The city is also famous for its many flower gardens which are best visited in spring. Kayaking, hiking, and exploring are also favorite activities for couples.


Is Newport or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newport
Victoria

Victoria is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Victoria is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

Is Newport or Victoria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport
Victoria

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

Newport has some public transit options. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Victoria. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.

Is Newport or Victoria a more walkable city?

Newport
Victoria

Newport and Victoria are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Victoria is very walkable. Many of the sights are close by and easy to walk to.


For even more information, also check out Is Newport Worth Visiting? and Is Victoria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Newport?

How long in Newport or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Newport or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Newport due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Victoria 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 Newport.


  • How many days in Newport or Victoria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newport 2-5 
    Victoria 3-4

One day in Newport or Victoria?

The town of Newport offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

In Victoria, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Newport or Victoria?

Newport is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newport, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Victoria, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Newport or Victoria?

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newport, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Victoria 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.


A week in Newport or Victoria?

Newport is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Victoria. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Victoria. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Newport?

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

  • Newport Prices
    USA Prices
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Newport $192
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Newport is $192, while the average daily cost in Victoria is $201. 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 Newport and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newport $92
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newport $184
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Newport and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Newport or Victoria? 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 Newport


Hotels in Victoria


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: Newport Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newport $36
    Victoria $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Victoria

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

  • Private Cruise Transfer with City Sightseeing Tour: $682
  • Victoria to Vancouver Scenic Seaplane Transfer: One Way: $289
  • Victoria to Vancouver Ferry with Bus Transfer: $75
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Cruise Terminal Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer: $77
  • Private Transfer from Victoria City Hotels to Nanaimo Cruise Port: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Newport or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Newport 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
    Newport $78
    Victoria $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Victoria

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

  • Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings: $86
  • Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria: $88
  • Vistas and Views Food Tour with 3-Course Meal: $100
  • Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour - Cowichan Valley : $125
  • Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour: $144
  • Gourmet Dinner Tour Including Local Beer, Wine and City Highlights: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newport $17
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $32
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40
  • America's Cup Evening Sailing Adventure Newport, RI: $125
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden Hour Cruise: $45
  • Guided Tour of Newport in Open Air LSV : $129
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $100
  • Historic Scenic Tour Through Newport With Elms Admission: $45
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $41
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40

Tours and Activities in Victoria

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

  • 24 Hour Hop-On, Hop-Off Double Decker Victoria City Tour: $44
  • 60-Minute Beacon Hill Park Tour: $227
  • 75-Minute The Royal Tour: $279
  • Beacon Hill Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Experience in Victoria: $227
  • Butchart & Beyond: The Grand Victoria Tour: $355
  • Butchart Gardens and City Private Tour: $292
  • COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix: $105
  • Chinatown and Hidden Alleys Pedicab Tour: $92
  • Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour: $88
  • East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour with a Bite and Beer: $129
  • Eat Like a Canadian Food & Sightseeing Tour: $59
  • Evening Sip, Savor, Stroll Tour: $147

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newport $14
    Victoria $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Victoria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Victoria:

  • Victoria BC: Tour & Tasting Around Award Winning Distillery: $21
  • Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers: $52
  • Local Brewery Tour with a Guide: $86
  • Victoria, BC: Food & Wine Tour to the Cowichan Valley: $118
  • 6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour: $126
  • Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie: $132
  • Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour : $144
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


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


Which is Bigger, Newport or Victoria?

Victoria has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Newport and Victoria, 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 Newport or Victoria?

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 Newport or Victoria in the Summer?

Both Victoria and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Newport is a little warmer than Victoria in the summer. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In July, Newport usually receives more rain than Victoria. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newport 73°F (23°C) 
    Victoria 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Newport or Victoria in the Autumn?

Both Victoria and Newport during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Victoria because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Newport is around the same temperature as Victoria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newport in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Victoria averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Newport usually gets more rain in October than Victoria. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newport 53°F (12°C) 
    Victoria 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Newport or Victoria in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Victoria. The winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Victoria this time of year.

It's quite cold in Victoria in the winter. The weather in Newport can be very cold. In January, Newport is generally much colder than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 28°F (-2°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Victoria receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Newport usually receives less rain than Victoria. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newport 28°F (-2°C) 
    Victoria 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Newport or Victoria in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Newport as well as Victoria. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Newport is around the same temperature as Victoria in the spring. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Newport usually gets more rain in April than Victoria. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newport 48°F (9°C) 
    Victoria 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Victoria and Newport

Newport Victoria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 5°C (41°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 7°C (44°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 10°C (49°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 12°C (54°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 14°C (58°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 16°C (60°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 16°C (61°F) 19 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 8°C (46°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 5°C (42°F) 153 mm (6 in)