A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seattle vs. Halifax for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Seattle or Halifax?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Seattle or Halifax, 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.

Seattle

Seattle is a laid-back, bustling, and progressive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and beaches. See Seattle travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Halifax travel costs.

Seattle and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seattle or Halifax?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seattle than Halifax. Seattle is bigger than Halifax, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seattle is more touristy than Halifax and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. Halifax is well known for its maritime past.

How is Seattle different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seattle or Halifax?

Seattle is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seattle can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Theater?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Halifax is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Halifax is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Seattle or Halifax? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seattle is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Seattle has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Music?

Seattle is a very popular place for live music. However, Halifax is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Halifax is not a live music destination.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Halifax is not a beach destination.

Seattle has a beach worth visiting. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Halifax is not a beach destination.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Hiking?

Seattle is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seattle or Halifax?

Both Seattle and Halifax are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Seattle to go shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Halifax. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Seattle or Halifax More Beautiful?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Families?

Seattle and Halifax are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Seattle is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Halifax is a family-friendly city. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Couples?

Seattle and Halifax are both notable to visit as a couple.

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Halifax is a nice destination for couples. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seattle and Halifax are notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Halifax is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Students?

Seattle is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Halifax is not popular with students.

Seattle is a great city to visit as a student. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Halifax is not popular with students.

Is Seattle or Halifax Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Seattle and Halifax offer notable public transit options.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Halifax has some public transit options. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

Is Seattle or Halifax a more walkable city?

Seattle is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

Halifax is a somewhat walkable place. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Seattle Worth Visiting? and Is Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Seattle?

How long in Seattle or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seattle and Halifax. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Seattle than Halifax. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Halifax 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 Seattle.

One day in Seattle or Halifax?

Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Halifax, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Seattle or Halifax?

Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seattle has to offer.

In Halifax, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Halifax has to offer.

Five days in Seattle or Halifax?

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Halifax is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Seattle or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Seattle. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Halifax. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Halifax. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Seattle or Halifax?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Halifax. When comparing the sizes of Seattle and Halifax, 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 Seattle or Halifax?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seattle or Halifax in the Summer?

Both Halifax and Seattle during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Halifax this time of year.

In the summer, Seattle is around the same temperature as Halifax. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seattle in July average around 67°F (19°C), and Halifax averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Halifax, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Seattle. In the summer, Seattle often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Seattle gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun.

Seattle usually gets less rain in July than Halifax. Seattle gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seattle or Halifax in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seattle and Halifax. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Halifax for the shopping scene.

In October, Seattle is generally a little warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Seattle average around 54°F (12°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Seattle usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Halifax during autumn. Seattle gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Seattle usually receives less rain than Halifax. Seattle gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seattle or Halifax in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seattle as well as Halifax. Many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Halifax in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Halifax can get quite cold in the winter. Seattle is much warmer than Halifax in the winter. The daily temperature in Seattle averages around 42°F (5°C) in January, and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

In the winter, Seattle often gets less sunshine than Halifax. Seattle gets 67 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. Seattle usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Halifax. Seattle gets 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seattle or Halifax in the Spring?

Both Halifax and Seattle are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Halifax can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Seattle is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seattle in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Halifax averages at about 4°C (39°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. Seattle usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during spring. Seattle gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In April, Seattle usually receives less rain than Halifax. Seattle gets 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Halifax and Seattle