A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Diego vs. Calgary for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit San Diego or Calgary?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Diego and Calgary. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

San Diego

San Diego is a fun-filled, hip, and dynamic coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. San Diego is a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See San Diego travel costs.

Calgary

Calgary is a local, authentic, and western city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Calgary travel costs.

San Diego and Calgary: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Calgary?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Calgary. San Diego is bigger than Calgary, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is more touristy than Calgary and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo. Calgary is well known for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.

How is San Diego different from Calgary?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Diego or Calgary?

San Diego is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.

Is the Food Better in San Diego or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Diego is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit San Diego. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

San Diego is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

If you're looking for night time activities Calgary has a few options to choose from. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Music?

San Diego is well known for its live music scene. However, Calgary is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Calgary is not a live music destination.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its resorts. However, Calgary is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, San Diego makes a nice vacation spot. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Calgary is not a resort destination.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Calgary is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Calgary is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Calgary is not a beach destination.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Calgary is not a beach destination.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Hiking?

San Diego is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Calgary is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Calgary is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Calgary?

If you're looking to go shopping, San Diego and Calgary both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Many visitors go to Calgary to go shopping. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.

Is San Diego or Calgary More Beautiful?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Diego is a beautiful place to visit, too. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Families?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

San Diego is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Couples?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

San Diego is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Calgary is a good coastal city for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both San Diego and Calgary are notable places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Students?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for students. However, Calgary is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular coastal city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Calgary is not popular with students.

Is San Diego or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Calgary is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Calgary offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is San Diego or Calgary a more walkable city?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

Calgary is generally not a very walkable coastal city. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.

For even more information, also check out Is San Diego Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Calgary or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Calgary?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in San Diego or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in San Diego than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for San Diego, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Calgary 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 San Diego.

One day in San Diego or Calgary?

In San Diego, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Calgary. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Calgary has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in San Diego or Calgary?

In San Diego, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the western destination of Calgary. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in San Diego or Calgary?

San Diego is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Diego has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the authentic city of Calgary. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in San Diego or Calgary?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Diego. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Calgary is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, San Diego or Calgary?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Calgary. When comparing the sizes of San Diego and Calgary, 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.