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

Should you visit San Francisco or Victoria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Victoria, 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 outdoorsy, quirky, and eccentric coastal city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. San Francisco is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and beaches. See San Francisco travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Victoria travel costs.

San Francisco and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Francisco or Victoria?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Francisco than Victoria. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Francisco is more touristy than Victoria and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also well known for The Golden Gate Bridge. Victoria is famous for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is San Francisco different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

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 San Francisco or Victoria Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Victoria is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Victoria is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is San Francisco or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both San Francisco and Victoria.

If you're looking for night time activities San Francisco has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Victoria. 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 San Francisco or Victoria Better for Music?

San Francisco is a good destination for its music scene. However, Victoria 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.

Victoria is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Victoria Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is a very popular place for the beach. However, Victoria 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.

Victoria is not a beach destination.

Is San Francisco or Victoria Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

San Francisco is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Victoria?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Victoria is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Is San Francisco or Victoria More Beautiful?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Francisco is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is San Francisco or Victoria Better for Families?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Victoria is 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.

Is San Francisco or Victoria Better for Couples?

San Francisco and Victoria are both great to visit as a couple.

San Francisco is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Victoria is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

San Francisco is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

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

Is San Francisco or Victoria Better for Students?

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

Many students visit San Francisco. 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.

Victoria is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Victoria is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

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.

Is San Francisco or Victoria a more walkable city?

San Francisco and Victoria are great when it comes to walkability.

San Francisco is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either San Francisco or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in San Francisco due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for San Francisco, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Victoria 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 Victoria?

San Francisco is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Victoria. 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 Victoria?

San Francisco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Victoria. 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 Victoria?

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Victoria. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in San Francisco or Victoria?

San Francisco is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Francisco has to offer. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Victoria. 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 Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.

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

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 Victoria Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Francisco or Victoria?

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

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 Victoria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Francisco and Victoria. 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 Victoria in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

San Francisco is around the same temperature as Victoria in the summer. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In July, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Victoria. San Francisco gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Francisco or Victoria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Francisco as well as Victoria. 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. Also, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, San Francisco is much warmer than Victoria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Francisco in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Victoria averages at about 11°C (52°F).

San Francisco usually gets less rain in October than Victoria. San Francisco gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Francisco or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and San Francisco are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Victoria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Victoria can be very cold. In January, San Francisco is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 50°F (10°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Victoria. In January, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Victoria. San Francisco gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Francisco or Victoria in the Spring?

Both Victoria and San Francisco during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

San Francisco is a little warmer than Victoria in the spring. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

San Francisco usually gets less rain in April than Victoria. San Francisco gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Victoria and San Francisco