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

Should you visit Raleigh or Victoria?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Victoria? 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a friendly, southern, and student-friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Raleigh travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Victoria travel costs.

Raleigh and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Victoria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Raleigh. Although Raleigh and Victoria are popular destinations, Raleigh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Raleigh is very popular for its big city activities, while Victoria attracts visitors for its hiking and shopping. Victoria is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular for its colonial buildings and public parks. Raleigh is famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. It is also well known for North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Raleigh
Victoria

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Raleigh or Victoria.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Raleigh. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

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 Raleigh or Victoria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Raleigh
Victoria

Both Raleigh and Victoria offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Raleigh area. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Victoria. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Raleigh or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Victoria

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Raleigh and Victoria.

Raleigh has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

If you're looking for night time activities Victoria has a few options to choose from. 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 Raleigh or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Raleigh
Victoria

Victoria is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

Victoria is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Victoria?

Raleigh
Victoria

Victoria is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Victoria to go shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Victoria Better for Families?

Raleigh
Victoria

Victoria is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Victoria is known to be 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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Raleigh or Victoria Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Victoria

Victoria is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.


Is Raleigh or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Raleigh
Victoria

Victoria is a popular place for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Raleigh or Victoria Better for Students?

Raleigh
Victoria

Raleigh is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Victoria is not popular with students.

Many students visit Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Victoria is not popular with students.

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

Raleigh
Victoria

Victoria is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.


Is Raleigh or Victoria a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Victoria

Victoria is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Victoria?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Raleigh or Victoria?

The city of Raleigh offers nightlife and food. 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 Raleigh or Victoria?

Raleigh 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 Raleigh, 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 Raleigh or Victoria?

Raleigh 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.

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 Raleigh or Victoria?

Raleigh 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 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Raleigh?

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

  • Raleigh Prices
    USA Prices
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Raleigh $231
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Raleigh is $231, 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 Raleigh and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh 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 Raleigh


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: Raleigh Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $139
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $277
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $139
  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Victoria

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Raleigh 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
    Raleigh $99
    Victoria $47
Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

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

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Craft Beer Bar in Raleigh: $75

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.
    Raleigh $37
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

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

  • Carolina Hurricanes Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Lenovo Center: $50
  • Chapel Hill Historic Churches History and Architecture Tour: $18
  • Chapel Hill LGBT History Tour: $19
  • Chapel Hill True Crime Walking Tour: $19
  • Create Your Own Lipstick or Lip Gloss Class Experience in Raleigh: $65
  • Downtown Cary Historian-Guided Tour: $19
  • Durham African-American Historic Walking Tour: $18
  • Durham True Crime Tour: $19
  • Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham: $19
  • Historic Oakwood: History & Architecture Tour: $19
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Chapel Hill NC: $15
  • Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh: $65

Tours and Activities in Victoria

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

  • Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 2.5-Hour: $5.02
  • Butterfly Gardens Admission Ticket: $15
  • Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $15
  • Iconic & Obscure Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Chinatown Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square: $17
  • Walking Tour through History and Heritage: $17
  • Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $17
  • Royal B.C. Museum in Full-Day Admission Ticket: $21
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $24
  • Malahat SkyWalk Tickets: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Raleigh $27
    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 Raleigh and Victoria, we can see that Raleigh 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 Raleigh Expensive? and Is Victoria Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Victoria?

Victoria has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Raleigh. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh 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 Raleigh or Victoria?

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 Raleigh or Victoria in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Victoria. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Victoria because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Raleigh is much warmer than Victoria in the summer. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Raleigh receives a lot of rain in the summer. Raleigh usually gets more rain in July than Victoria. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Victoria 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Raleigh or Victoria in the Autumn?

Both Victoria and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the city's sights and attractions. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Victoria this time of year.

In the autumn, Raleigh is a little warmer than Victoria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Raleigh in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Victoria averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In October, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Victoria. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Victoria 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Raleigh or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Raleigh during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Victoria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Victoria. It's quite cold in Raleigh in the winter. In January, Raleigh is generally around the same temperature as Victoria. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 40°F (5°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Victoria gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Raleigh usually gets less rain in January than Victoria. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Victoria 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Raleigh or Victoria in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Victoria. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the activities around the city.

Raleigh is much warmer than Victoria in the spring. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 60°F (16°C) in April, and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In April, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Victoria. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Victoria 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Victoria and Raleigh

Raleigh Victoria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 5°C (41°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 7°C (44°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 10°C (49°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 12°C (54°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 14°C (58°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 16°C (60°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 16°C (61°F) 19 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 8°C (46°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 5°C (42°F) 153 mm (6 in)