A Travel Price Comparison for Canada Victoria vs. Jasper National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Victoria or Jasper National Park?

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 Victoria and Jasper National Park. 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.

Victoria

Victoria is a scenic, relaxing, and cultural city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Victoria travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a adventure-filled, stunning, and breathtaking national park. Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Victoria and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Victoria or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Victoria than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Victoria is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Victoria is well known for its colonial buildings and public parks. Also, Victoria is famous for Butchart Gardens. Jasper National Park is well known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Victoria different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Victoria or Jasper National Park?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Victoria is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Victoria or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Victoria is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Victoria or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Victoria is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Victoria has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Victoria or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Jasper National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

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 Victoria or Jasper National Park?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Victoria is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Victoria or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Victoria or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Both Victoria and Jasper National Park are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Victoria. 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.

Jasper National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.


Is Victoria or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Victoria and Jasper National Park both great destinations for a couple.

Victoria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Jasper National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Is Victoria or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Jasper National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

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

Is Victoria or Jasper National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Victoria is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.


Is Victoria or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Victoria
Jasper National Park

Victoria is well known for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Victoria Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Victoria?

How long in Victoria or Jasper National Park?

In either Victoria or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than Victoria because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Victoria, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Victoria than Jasper National Park 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 Victoria.


  • How many days in Victoria or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Victoria 3-4 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Victoria or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Victoria. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful national park of Jasper National Park offers . 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.

A weekend in Victoria or Jasper National Park?

Victoria is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Jasper National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jasper National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Victoria or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Victoria for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Victoria. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Jasper National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jasper National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Victoria or Jasper National Park?

The scenic destination of Victoria offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jasper National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, The Best Eco Tours in Canada, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Victoria?

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

  • Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Victoria $201
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Victoria is $201, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Victoria and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Victoria $113
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Victoria $226
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Victoria and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Victoria or Jasper National Park? 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 Victoria


Hotels in Jasper National Park


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: Victoria Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Victoria $37
    Jasper National Park $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Victoria

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

  • Private Transfer from Victoria City Hotels to Nanaimo Cruise Port: $130
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer: $77
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver Ferry with Bus Transfer: $75
  • Victoria to Vancouver Scenic Seaplane Transfer: One Way: $289
  • Private Cruise Transfer with City Sightseeing Tour: $682

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Victoria or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Victoria 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
    Victoria $47
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Victoria

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

  • Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings: $86
  • Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria: $88
  • Vistas and Views Food Tour with 3-Course Meal: $100
  • Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour: $144
  • Gourmet Dinner Tour Including Local Beer, Wine and City Highlights: $219

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Victoria $45
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Victoria

For Victoria, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 2.5-Hour: $5.02
  • Butterfly Gardens Admission Ticket: $15
  • Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $15
  • Iconic & Obscure Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Walking Tour through History and Heritage: $17
  • Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square: $17
  • Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $17
  • Royal B.C. Museum in Full-Day Admission Ticket: $21
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $24
  • Heritage Horse-Drawn Carriage Experience in Victoria: $26
  • Malahat SkyWalk Tickets: $32
  • Upper Gorge Waterway Paddle Boarding Tour: $36

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Jasper National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Canadian Rockies Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour Bundle: $50
  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $105
  • Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper: $230
  • E-Bike Safari Eco Tour: $176
  • Explore Jasper Tour: $184
  • Explore Jasper Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise: $184
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Jasper Ice Climbing Experience: $174
  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Victoria $16
    Jasper National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Victoria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Victoria:

  • Victoria BC: Tour & Tasting Around Award Winning Distillery: $21
  • Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers: $52
  • Local Brewery Tour with a Guide: $86
  • Victoria, BC: Food & Wine Tour to the Cowichan Valley: $118
  • 6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour: $126
  • Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie: $132
  • Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour : $143
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


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

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