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

Should you visit San Diego or Saskatoon?

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 Saskatoon. 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 nightlife, live music, and food. See San Diego travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Saskatoon travel costs.

San Diego and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in San Diego or Saskatoon?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Saskatoon. San Diego is bigger than Saskatoon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is more touristy than Saskatoon 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. Saskatoon is well known for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is San Diego different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saskatoon 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 Saskatoon?

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Saskatoon. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.


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

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Saskatoon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is San Diego or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

San Diego offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saskatoon. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

Is San Diego or Saskatoon Better for Music?

San Diego
Saskatoon

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

The music scene in San Diego is very popular with diverse venues. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Saskatoon is not a live music destination.


Is San Diego or Saskatoon Better for Resorts?

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is a good destination for its resorts. However, Saskatoon 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.

Saskatoon is not a resort destination.

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

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Saskatoon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Saskatoon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Diego or Saskatoon Better for Beaches?

San Diego
Saskatoon

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

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Saskatoon is not a beach destination.


Is San Diego or Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Saskatoon?

San Diego
Saskatoon

If you're looking to go shopping, San Diego and Saskatoon 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 Saskatoon to go shopping. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is San Diego or Saskatoon More Beautiful?

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Saskatoon 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.

Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is San Diego or Saskatoon Better for Families?

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. 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.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly coastal city. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.

Is San Diego or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Saskatoon is a good coastal city for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.

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

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego is a good destination for backpackers. However, Saskatoon is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.


Is San Diego or Saskatoon Better for Students?

San Diego
Saskatoon

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

San Diego is a very popular place to visit 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.

Saskatoon is not popular with students.

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

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego and Saskatoon both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.

Is San Diego or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

San Diego
Saskatoon

San Diego and Saskatoon are notable when it comes to walkability.

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.

Saskatoon is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Diego and Saskatoon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than in Saskatoon. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for San Diego, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saskatoon.

Families should spend more time in San Diego than Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon 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.


  • How many days in San Diego or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Diego 3-5 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in San Diego or Saskatoon?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. 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.

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

A weekend in San Diego or Saskatoon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the energetic coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon?

San Diego 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.

Saskatoon 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.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or San Diego?

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

  • San Diego Prices
    USA Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Diego $233
    Saskatoon $149

The average daily cost (per person) in San Diego is $233, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $149. 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 San Diego and Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Diego $115
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Diego $230
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in San Diego and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in San Diego or Saskatoon? 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 San Diego


Hotels in Saskatoon


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: San Diego Hotel Prices and Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Diego $23
    Saskatoon $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Diego

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

  • Private Transfer to Tijuana Airport (TIJ): $39
  • Private Transfer from Tijuana Airport (TIJ): $39
  • San Diego hotel/address to San Diego Airport (SAN) - Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Marcos, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Hot Springs/Ocotillo, CA to San Diego Airport (SAN) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • San Diego Airport (SAN) to Hot Springs/Ocotillo, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • One Way Airport Hotel Shuttle Transfer: $68
  • Tijuana to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) – Departure Private Transfer: $70
  • Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) to Tijuana hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $70
  • Private Transfer from San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Diego Port : $71
  • Private Transfer from San Diego City Hotels to San Diego Port : $71
  • Private Transfer from San Diego Port to San Diego Airport (SAN): $71

Is it cheaper to fly into San Diego or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon and San Diego 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
    San Diego $77
    Saskatoon $54
Typical Food Prices in San Diego

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to San Diego:


  • Mexican Lunch for Two
    $27
  • Breakfast at Starbucks
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Diego

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

  • 2-Hour Ravioli Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • 2-Hour Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in San Diego: $75
  • 2 Hour Ravioli Cooking Class With Local Chef in San Diego : $75
  • Pizza and Ice Cream Walking Tour: $80
  • Old Town Tequila and Tacos Walking Food Tour: $84
  • San Diego Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $85
  • North Park San Diego Walking Food Tour: $85
  • San Diego Vegan Food Tour: $89
  • Vegan Food Tour: $89
  • Gaslamp Quarter Food Tour: $89
  • Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Diego $48
    Saskatoon $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in San Diego

For San Diego, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • San Diego Zoo
    $15
  • Sea World Parking
    $12

Tours and Activities in San Diego

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Diego.

  • Self-Guided San Diego Walking or Bicycle Tour App: $5.00
  • Self-guided Bike Tour App - Audio + Written: $5.00
  • San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Self-Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Tijuana Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • A Seaside Stroll: La Jolla's Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Sights of San Diego Harbor: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour: $12
  • San Diego Natural History Museum Ticket: $12
  • Whaley House Museum Self-Guided Tour: $14
  • San Diego Gas Lamp: At your leisure & pace. An audio walking tour.: $15
  • Haunted Whaley House Guided Night Tour: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in San Diego by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Diego $21
    Saskatoon $9.60

Sample the Local Flavors in San Diego

Also in San Diego, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Slammin' San Diego Bar Crawl: $13
  • Downtown Bar Crawl Party Pass: $25
  • History Tour Pub Crawl of Famous Gaslamp Quarter: $30
  • Hillcrest Drag Queen 5 Bar Crawl with Shots: $45
  • Brewery Tour with Tastings and Food Pairings: $85
  • $99 Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tours - DayTrip to baja from San Diego: $123
  • Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $125
  • Baja Tour Guide wine tour: $169
  • Brewery and Beer Tasting Tour in San Diego: $215
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tour: $249
  • Private Temecula Wine Tour from Escondido: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Diego and Saskatoon, we can see that San Diego is more expensive. And not only is Saskatoon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saskatoon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saskatoon 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 Saskatoon.

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 Saskatoon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Diego or Saskatoon?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Saskatoon. When comparing the sizes of San Diego and Saskatoon, 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.