A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orlando vs. Vancouver for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Orlando or Vancouver?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Vancouver? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and food. See Orlando travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a diverse, friendly, and outdoorsy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Vancouver travel costs.

Orlando and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Vancouver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vancouver than Orlando, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Vancouver is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is known for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Vancouver and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Vancouver is popular for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Stanley Park.

How is Orlando different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or Vancouver?

Vancouver is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Vancouver from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Theater?

Orlando is a good destination for theatre. However, Vancouver is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Vancouver is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Orlando and Vancouver.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Vancouver is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Vancouver for the nightlife scene. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

People visit Vancouver specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Vancouver?

Vancouver is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Vancouver. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Orlando or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Vancouver is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Families?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly city. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is renowned for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Vancouver makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Vancouver is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Vancouver is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Is Orlando or Vancouver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vancouver is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

Vancouver has a great public transit system. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Orlando or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is renowned for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Vancouver is a very easy city to get around on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Vancouver?

In either Orlando or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver than Orlando because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver than Orlando 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 Vancouver.

One day in Orlando or Vancouver?

You'll find shopping and theater around the city of Orlando. 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.

Because Vancouver is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Orlando or Vancouver?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the family-friendly destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Vancouver is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Orlando or Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active city of Orlando. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Vancouver is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vancouver has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Vancouver?

Orlando 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vancouver. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vancouver. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Vancouver, 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 Orlando or Vancouver?

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 Orlando or Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Vancouver because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Orlando is much warmer than Vancouver in the summer. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Vancouver fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Vancouver. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orlando or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

In the autumn, Orlando is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Vancouver averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Vancouver in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Vancouver. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vancouver for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vancouver. In January, Orlando is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orlando or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Vancouver. Also, many visitors come to Vancouver in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Orlando is much warmer than Vancouver in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Vancouver fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Orlando