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

Should you visit Washington or Halifax?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Halifax can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Washington travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a cultural, historical, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Halifax travel costs.

Washington and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Halifax?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington than Halifax, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Washington is more touristy than Halifax and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House. Halifax is popular for its maritime past.

How is Washington different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Washington is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington or Halifax Better for Theater?

Washington is a very popular place for theatre. However, Halifax is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Halifax is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Washington is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

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

Washington has a large number of nightlife venues. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington or Halifax Better for Music?

Washington is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Halifax is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Halifax is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Halifax Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Halifax?

Washington is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Washington or Halifax More Beautiful?

Washington is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Washington or Halifax Better for Families?

Washington is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. 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 Washington or Halifax Better for Couples?

Washington is a very popular place for romance. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Washington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Halifax makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Washington or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Halifax is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Halifax is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or Halifax Better for Students?

Washington is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Halifax is not popular with students.

Washington is a great destination for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Halifax is not popular with students.

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

Washington is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Washington has a great public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

You'll find some public transit in Halifax, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

Is Washington or Halifax a more walkable city?

Washington is renowned for its walkability. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Washington?

How long in Washington or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Washington and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Halifax. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington 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 Washington.

One day in Washington or Halifax?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Halifax, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Halifax?

Because Washington 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Halifax, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Washington or Halifax?

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Halifax, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Halifax is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers 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 Washington and Halifax, we can see that Washington 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive? and Is Halifax Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Washington or Halifax?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of Halifax. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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 Washington or Halifax?

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 Washington or Halifax in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Halifax. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Halifax for the family-friendly experiences.

Washington is a little warmer than Halifax in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Halifax fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Halifax this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Halifax. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Halifax in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as Halifax. Many travelers come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Halifax in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Washington is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Halifax averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Washington often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Washington usually gets less rain in October than Halifax. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Halifax in the Winter?

Both Halifax and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Washington in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Halifax for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Halifax can be very cold during winter. Washington can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

Washington usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Halifax. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Halifax in the Spring?

Both Halifax and Washington during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. Washington is much warmer than Halifax in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Halifax fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Washington. In the spring, Washington often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

Halifax gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in April than Halifax. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Halifax and Washington