A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palm Springs vs. Halifax for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Palm Springs or Halifax?

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 Palm Springs and Halifax can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Palm Springs travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a cultural, historical, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Halifax travel costs.

Palm Springs and Halifax: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Halifax?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Palm Springs and Halifax are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more touristy than Halifax and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Halifax is popular for its maritime past.

How is Palm Springs different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palm Springs or Halifax?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Both Palm Springs and Halifax have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Palm Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


Is the Food Better in Palm Springs or Halifax? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palm Springs. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Palm Springs or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Palm Springs is renowned for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Palm Springs or Halifax Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Palm Springs is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Halifax is not a resort destination.

Palm Springs offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Halifax is not a resort destination.


Is Palm Springs or Halifax Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Halifax?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Palm Springs is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Palm Springs. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Palm Springs or Halifax Better for Families?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly destination. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


Is Palm Springs or Halifax Better for Couples?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Palm Springs is a very popular place for romance. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

Halifax makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Palm Springs or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Halifax is very good for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Halifax is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

Is Palm Springs or Halifax Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Halifax is very good for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Halifax has a few public transit options. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.


Is Palm Springs or Halifax a more walkable city?

Palm Springs
Halifax

Palm Springs and Halifax both are good when exploring on foot.

Palm Springs is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

Halifax is a somewhat walkable place. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palm Springs and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palm Springs than in Halifax. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Halifax than Palm Springs 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 Halifax.


  • How many days in Palm Springs or Halifax? Ideal Length of Stay
    Palm Springs 2-4 
    Halifax 2-3

One day in Palm Springs or Halifax?

In Palm Springs, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Halifax, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Palm Springs or Halifax?

In Palm Springs, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palm Springs has to offer.

Halifax is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Palm Springs or Halifax?

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Halifax. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Palm Springs or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Halifax is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax or Palm Springs?

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

  • Palm Springs Prices
    USA Prices
    Halifax Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Palm Springs $244
    Halifax $137

The average daily cost (per person) in Palm Springs is $244, while the average daily cost in Halifax is $137. 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 Palm Springs and Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palm Springs $120
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palm Springs $240
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Palm Springs and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Palm Springs or Halifax? 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 Palm Springs


Hotels in Halifax


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: Palm Springs Hotel Prices and Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palm Springs $52
    Halifax $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $215
  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport PSP Departure Transfer: $202

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Halifax

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Halifax Stanfield Airport YHZ: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Palm Springs or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax and Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $92
    Halifax $54

Typical Food Prices in Halifax

For Halifax, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Bluenose II Restaurant
    $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Halifax

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

  • Peggy's Cove Small Group Night Tour with Dinner: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palm Springs $29
    Halifax $28

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

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

  • Palm Springs Windmill Guided Tour by Golf Cart: $55
  • 10+ Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas: $45
  • 100+ Self-Guided Audio Tours: Driving & Walking Bundle: $90
  • All-In-One California Self-Guided Driving & Walking Bundle Tour: $50
  • Bombay Beach Salton Sea and Salvation Mountain Guided Art Tour: $225
  • Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ: $129
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Drag Queen Hosted Mobile Theater Palm Springs Sightseeing Tours: $125
  • Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bicycle Adventure: $149
  • Food Adventure Game: $99
  • Golf Cart Tour in a 6 Passenger Cart in Palm Springs California: $195
  • Guided Electric Motorbike Tour inside Joshua Tree National Park: $169

Tours and Activities in Halifax

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

  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • Georges Island National Historic Site Ferry Ticket: $16
  • Happy Hour Cruise with Live Music: $21
  • Guided Kayak Tour with Multiple Options: $29
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Party Cruise on the Harbour Queen: $42
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Tall Ship Harbor Sailing Cruise with Live Music: $42
  • Harbour Hopper City & Water Cruise in a Duck Boat: $56
  • Signature Adventure Sail: $56
  • Solar Waterfront Food/Drink Party Bike Experience: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palm Springs $13
    Halifax $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Palm Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Palm Springs:

  • Palm Springs Bar Crawl: $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Halifax

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Halifax:

  • Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Lead by a Sommelier: $168
  • The Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour: $206


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

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


Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Halifax?

Halifax has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs and Halifax, 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 Palm Springs or Halifax?

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 Palm Springs or Halifax in the Summer?

Both Halifax and Palm Springs during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Halifax for the family-friendly experiences.

Palm Springs is a little warmer than Halifax in the summer. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Halifax fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in July than Halifax. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C) 
    Halifax 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Palm Springs or Halifax in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Halifax. Many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Halifax in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Palm Springs is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palm Springs in October average around 69°F (20°C), and Halifax averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Halifax. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C) 
    Halifax 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Palm Springs or Halifax in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Halifax. Many visitors come to Palm Springs in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Halifax for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Halifax can be very cold during winter. In January, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 57°F (14°C), and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Palm Springs usually gets less rain in January than Halifax. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C) 
    Halifax -4°C (24°F)

Should I visit Palm Springs or Halifax in the Spring?

Both Halifax and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. Palm Springs is much warmer than Halifax in the spring. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Halifax fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In April, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Halifax. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C) 
    Halifax 4°C (39°F)

Typical Weather for Halifax and Palm Springs

Palm Springs Halifax
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm) -4°C (24°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) -1°C (31°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm) 4°C (39°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 9°C (48°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Jun 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 14°C (57°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 18°C (64°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm) 18°C (65°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm) 15°C (58°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 10°C (49°F) 121 mm (4.7 in)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm) 5°C (40°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) -1°C (29°F) 152 mm (6 in)