A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Petersburg vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

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 Saint Petersburg and Vancouver can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Saint Petersburg 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Vancouver travel costs.

Saint Petersburg and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vancouver than Saint Petersburg, 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 Saint Petersburg is known for its resorts and beaches. Saint Petersburg is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Vancouver is popular for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Stanley Park.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

Vancouver is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Saint Petersburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Saint Petersburg and Vancouver.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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 Saint Petersburg or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Vancouver is great for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal 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 Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Saint Petersburg or Vancouver Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Saint Petersburg offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is terrific for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Vancouver specifically for its hiking. 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

Vancouver is terrific for shopping. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal 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.

Saint Petersburg offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Is Saint Petersburg or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Vancouver is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Petersburg or Vancouver Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Saint Petersburg or Vancouver.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly coastal 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 Saint Petersburg or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is terrific for romance. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Vancouver has plenty to offer. 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

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

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Vancouver can take you anywhere. 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 Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Is Saint Petersburg or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is terrific for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

In either Saint Petersburg or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver than Saint Petersburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

Couples should spend more time in Vancouver than Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of Saint Petersburg. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

People visit Vancouver because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the underrated destination of Saint Petersburg. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Vancouver because there is so much to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed coastal city of Saint Petersburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Vancouver is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

Saint Petersburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Vancouver is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises 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 Saint Petersburg and Vancouver, we can see that Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg Expensive? and Is Vancouver Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Saint Petersburg. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg or Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Vancouver for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Vancouver. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives less sunshine than Vancouver during summer. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Saint Petersburg. In July, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Vancouver. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver and Saint Petersburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Vancouver because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Petersburg in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Vancouver averages at about 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the autumn, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun.

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Vancouver in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Vancouver. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

It's quite cold in Vancouver in the winter. In January, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 59°F (15°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during winter. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Vancouver. The beaches are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Vancouver in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Vancouver fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Saint Petersburg