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

Should you visit Washington or Victoria?

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 Victoria can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Washington travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a scenic, relaxing, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Victoria travel costs.

Washington and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Victoria?

You'll generally find more things to do in Washington than Victoria. Washington is bigger than Victoria, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Washington is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Victoria is more popular for its hiking. Washington is well known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Victoria is well known for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Washington different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is an amazing 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, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

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 Washington or Victoria Better for Theater?

Washington is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Victoria is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. 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.

Victoria is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is an amazing 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 Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

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 Washington or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

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.

Is Washington or Victoria Better for Music?

Washington 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 Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Victoria is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Victoria is very good for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many people include a hike when visiting Victoria. 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Victoria?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

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

Is Washington or Victoria More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Washington or Victoria Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Victoria.

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.

Victoria is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Washington or Victoria Better for Couples?

Both Washington and Victoria are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

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 Washington or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Victoria is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

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 Victoria Better for Students?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Victoria is not popular with students.

Washington is a very popular place to visit 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.

Victoria is not popular with students.

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

Washington is an amazing 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 Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Victoria a more walkable city?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Washington?

How long in Washington or Victoria?

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

Families should spend more time in Washington than Victoria. 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 Victoria. 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 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 Washington.

One day in Washington or Victoria?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the cultural city of Victoria, 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 Victoria?

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Victoria, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Victoria?

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

Victoria, 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 Victoria?

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Victoria 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 Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Washington and Victoria, we can see that Washington is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Victoria?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 91% larger than the population of Victoria. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington or Victoria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Victoria. Many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Washington is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In July, Washington usually receives more rain than Victoria. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Victoria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as Victoria. Most visitors 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 during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Victoria because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Washington is a little warmer than Victoria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Victoria fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Washington usually gets more rain in October than Victoria. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Victoria this time of year.

It's quite cold in Victoria in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. In the winter, Washington is much colder than Victoria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Victoria averages at about 5°C (41°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Victoria. In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Victoria. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Victoria in the Spring?

Both Victoria and Washington during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

In April, Washington is generally a little warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Washington usually gets more rain in April than Victoria. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Victoria and Washington