A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Norfolk vs. Edmonton for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Norfolk or Edmonton?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Edmonton? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Norfolk travel costs.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a cultural, authentic, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Edmonton travel costs.

Norfolk and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Norfolk or Edmonton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Edmonton than Norfolk, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Edmonton is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping, while Norfolk is known for its food. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence. Edmonton is popular for its many festivals and lively personality. It is also home to the West Edmonton Mall.

How is Norfolk different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Norfolk or Edmonton?

Norfolk
Edmonton

Edmonton is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Edmonton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.


Is the Food Better in Norfolk or Edmonton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Norfolk
Edmonton

Norfolk is very good for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Norfolk or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Edmonton

It's hard to distinguish whether Norfolk or Edmonton has a better nightlife scene.

Norfolk has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

If you're looking for night time activities Edmonton has a few options to choose from. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Edmonton?

Norfolk
Edmonton

Edmonton is a great destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Edmonton is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.


Is Norfolk or Edmonton Better for Families?

Norfolk
Edmonton

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Norfolk or Edmonton.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Norfolk. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Edmonton offers lots of family activities. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Is Norfolk or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Edmonton

Edmonton is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Edmonton is a nice destination for couples. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Norfolk or Edmonton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Norfolk
Edmonton

Edmonton is a popular place for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Edmonton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has both bus and light rail systems.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.


Is Norfolk or Edmonton a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Edmonton

Norfolk and Edmonton both are good when exploring on foot.

Norfolk is somewhat walkable. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Edmonton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Norfolk or Edmonton to fill your time. In our opinion, Edmonton has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Edmonton than Norfolk. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edmonton than Norfolk 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 Edmonton.


  • How many days in Norfolk or Edmonton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Edmonton 1-2

One day in Norfolk or Edmonton?

The city of Norfolk 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 Edmonton, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Norfolk or Edmonton?

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

In Edmonton, you'll find nightlife and shopping. 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 Edmonton has to offer.


Five days in Norfolk or Edmonton?

Norfolk 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.

Edmonton 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 Norfolk or Edmonton?

Norfolk 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 Edmonton. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Edmonton. 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 United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Edmonton or Norfolk?

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

  • Norfolk Prices
    USA Prices
    Edmonton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Norfolk $202
    Edmonton $191

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $202, while the average daily cost in Edmonton is $191. 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 Norfolk and Edmonton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Norfolk $84
    Edmonton $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Norfolk $168
    Edmonton $202
Compare Hotels in Norfolk and Edmonton

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk or Edmonton? 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 Norfolk


Hotels in Edmonton


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: Norfolk Hotel Prices and Edmonton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Edmonton $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edmonton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Arrival Private Transfer: $121
  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $241
  • Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG) - Departure Private Transfer: $121
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton Hotels: $121
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG): $121

Is it cheaper to fly into Norfolk or Edmonton?

Prices for flights to both Edmonton and Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $85
    Edmonton $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • City Cruises Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise: $57
  • City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise : $103
  • 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks: $210

Typical Food Prices in Edmonton

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


  • Snacks
    $7.26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Norfolk $14
    Edmonton $91

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin: $40
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $42
  • Half-Day Self-Guided Tour E-Bike Rental in Norfolk: $75
  • City Cruises Signature Lunch Cruise: $84

Tours and Activities in Edmonton

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

  • Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based: $4.00
  • 3-Hour City Highlights Walking Tour With Guide: $4.02
  • Edmonton Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Edmonton by Crazy Dash: $10
  • TELUS World of Science General Admission Ticket: $19
  • Edmonton River Valley 60-Minute Segway Adventure: $44
  • 1-Hour Edmonton River Valley Segway Tour: $44
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $46
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Rogers Place: $49
  • Edmonton River Valley 90-Minute Segway Adventure: $62
  • E-Scooter City Highlights Tour | 2-Hour: $63
  • City Bike Tour, Highlights and River Valley: $77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Norfolk $10
    Edmonton -

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Norfolk Bar Crawl: $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Edmonton

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group): $103


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


Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Edmonton?

Edmonton has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk and Edmonton, 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.