A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Philadelphia vs. Banff for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Banff?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Banff, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Philadelphia is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Banff

Banff is a outdoorsy, sporty, and adventurous town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of Banff is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Banff travel costs.

Philadelphia and Banff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Banff?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Banff, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Philadelphia is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Banff is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Banff is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its stunning beauty, pristine nature, and nearby lakes. Philadelphia is well known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Banff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Skiing?

Banff is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Banff is among the best in the world. The town makes a great base for experiencing the three nearby ski resorts: Banff Sunshine, The Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt Norquay. You can purchase a SkiBig3 Lift Ticket and experience the area's best skiing. There's a long ski season and a stunning setting within the Canadian Rockies.

Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Banff?

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Banff does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Banff does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is notable for its theatre productions. However, Banff is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Banff is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Philadelphia or Banff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Philadelphia and Banff offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

Philadelphia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Dining out in Banff is an experience not to be missed. The downtown has bistros, taverns, and many casual eateries. For a more fine dining experience, you can go to one of the luxury hotels, which have nice dining areas. Throughout town you'll find classic Canadian food like poutine, as well as pizza and bar food.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Nightlife?

Both Philadelphia and Banff have very good vibes after the sun sets.

Philadelphia has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

The people in Banff know how to have a good time. It's a great town for partying and it's compact and easy to barhop if you want. For the town's size, you'll find a huge number of bars and breweries to choose from, and there's always something going on.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Music?

Philadelphia is notable for its live music scene. However, Banff is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Banff is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its old town. However, Banff does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Philadelphia to see the old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Banff does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Hiking?

Banff is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Banff draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is set within Banff National Park, and is surrounded by world class hiking. There are more than 1,000 miles of trails that wander alongside rivers, lead to waterfalls, or climb mountain peaks. You may also see local wildlife.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Banff?

Philadelphia is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Banff is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Philadelphia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Banff has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are tons of downtown shops that sell local items, art, sports gear, or clothing.

Is Philadelphia or Banff More Beautiful?

Banff is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Banff is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The dramatic Rocky Mountains and stunning natural beauty make this an iconic and beautiful destination.

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Families?

Philadelphia and Banff are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Banff is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the low key hikes like Tunnel Mountain hike. There's also the Banff Gondola and several playgrounds in downtown Banff. For adventure activities, check out the Golden Skybridge or Lake Louise.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Couples?

Banff is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Banff has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a beautiful destination for a honeymoon or anniversary trip. There are countless hikes and stunning natural beauty. There are also spas, horseback riding, and many great restaurants.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Banff is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Banff. There are a couple of hostels around town and plenty of natural beauty that appeals to backpackers.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Students?

Philadelphia is notable for students. However, Banff is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Banff is not popular with students.

Is Philadelphia or Banff Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Philadelphia is notable for its public transit. Also, Banff is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Philadelphia has some very good public transit options. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Banff has some public transit options. There's a bus system, Roam, that connects the towns of Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise.

Is Philadelphia or Banff a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Banff is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Banff is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and there are trailheads nearby as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Banff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Banff or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Banff?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Banff 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 Philadelphia.

One day in Philadelphia or Banff?

Each neighborhood in Philadelphia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the museums. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Banff is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Philadelphia or Banff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Banff is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Philadelphia or Banff?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Philadelphia. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Banff might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Philadelphia or Banff?

You'll find shopping and museums around the diverse big city of Philadelphia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Banff is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Banff?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Banff. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Banff, 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.