A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Francisco vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit San Francisco or Vancouver?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Vancouver, 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a scenic, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come to San Francisco because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See San Francisco travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a diverse, friendly, and outdoorsy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Vancouver travel costs.

San Francisco and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Francisco or Vancouver?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Francisco than Vancouver. While Vancouver is larger than San Francisco, San Francisco has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Francisco is better known for its theatre productions, food, music, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Vancouver is more popular for its nightlife. San Francisco is more touristy than Vancouver and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge. Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere.

How is San Francisco different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Francisco or Vancouver?

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Vancouver and San Francisco.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, San Francisco has many famous sights for visitors. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Vancouver that are not to be missed. 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.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a good destination for theatre. However, Vancouver is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in San Francisco, take in a show. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Vancouver is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in San Francisco or Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through San Francisco, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants 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 San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Vancouver is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Vancouver has something for everybody. 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 San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Music?

San Francisco is a good destination for live music. However, Vancouver is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Vancouver is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is great for its beaches. However, Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Many people visit San Francisco for it's beautiful beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

San Francisco and Vancouver are both places where visitors can find world-class hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Around Vancouver visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Vancouver?

If you're looking to go shopping, San Francisco and Vancouver both offer plenty of world-class spots.

Many people travel to San Francisco specifically to go shopping. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Vancouver is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver More Beautiful?

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to San Francisco because of it's amazing beauty. With its dramatic Golden Gate Bridge, and the many beautiful hills with striking views of the city and bay, San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States.

The beauty of Vancouver is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Families?

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Francisco is very family-friendly. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Vancouver has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both San Francisco and Vancouver are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver Better for Students?

For students, both San Francisco and Vancouver are great places to visit.

San Francisco is a great coastal city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Students come from all over to stay in Vancouver. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

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

San Francisco and Vancouver both offer world-class public transit to get you around.

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Vancouver has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

Is San Francisco or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

Vancouver is a very easy city to get around on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

For even more information, also check out Is San Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Vancouver?

In either San Francisco or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than Vancouver because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for San Francisco, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

Couples should spend more time in Vancouver than San Francisco. 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 San Francisco than Vancouver 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 Francisco.

One day in San Francisco or Vancouver?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic big city of Vancouver. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Francisco or Vancouver?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vancouver. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in San Francisco or Vancouver?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic big city of Vancouver. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in San Francisco or Vancouver?

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Vancouver. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 San Francisco and Vancouver, we can see that San Francisco 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 San Francisco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Francisco 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 San Francisco Expensive? and Is Vancouver Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Francisco or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Francisco. When comparing the sizes of San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco or Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver and San Francisco are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Vancouver in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, San Francisco is around the same temperature as Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Francisco in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In July, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Vancouver. San Francisco gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Francisco or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver and San Francisco during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to San Francisco in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Vancouver for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, San Francisco is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 63°F (17°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. San Francisco usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. San Francisco gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Francisco or Vancouver in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both San Francisco and Vancouver. Most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Vancouver because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Vancouver can be very cold. San Francisco is much warmer than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Vancouver. San Francisco gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Francisco or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to San Francisco as well as Vancouver. The spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

In the spring, San Francisco is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Francisco in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. San Francisco usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. San Francisco gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and San Francisco