A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wilmington vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Wilmington or Vancouver?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Vancouver, 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Wilmington travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a diverse, friendly, and outdoorsy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Vancouver travel costs.

Wilmington and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wilmington or Vancouver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vancouver than Wilmington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Vancouver is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Wilmington is known for its beaches and historical sights. Vancouver is more touristy than Wilmington and is known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Stanley Park. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is Wilmington different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wilmington or Vancouver?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Vancouver from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Wilmington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Wilmington or Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vancouver is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Vancouver is great for nightlife. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Vancouver for the nightlife scene. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Wilmington is great for its beaches. However, Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Wilmington for it's beautiful beaches. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Vancouver does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Vancouver does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Vancouver draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Vancouver?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Vancouver. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Vancouver is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for Families?

Wilmington and Vancouver are both great destinations for the whole family.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly city. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Vancouver has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Vancouver is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Vancouver is a great city to visit as a student. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Wilmington is a good city to visit for students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for its public transit.

Vancouver has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

Public transit is generally limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Is Wilmington or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Vancouver is a very easy city to get around on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Wilmington Worth Visiting? and Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Vancouver?

In either Wilmington or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Vancouver has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Vancouver than Wilmington. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver than Wilmington 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 Vancouver.

One day in Wilmington or Vancouver?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Wilmington. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

When visiting Vancouver, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wilmington or Vancouver?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Wilmington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

When visiting Vancouver, people usually allow for lots of time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Wilmington or Vancouver?

You'll find nightlife and food around the historic city of Wilmington. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Vancouver, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Vancouver?

Wilmington is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Vancouver 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Wilmington. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington and Vancouver, 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 Wilmington or Vancouver?

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 Wilmington or Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Vancouver in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Wilmington is much warmer than Vancouver in the summer. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Vancouver fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Vancouver. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Vancouver during summer. Wilmington gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Wilmington. In July, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Vancouver. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wilmington or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver and Wilmington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Vancouver for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Wilmington is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wilmington in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Vancouver averages at about 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Wilmington. In the autumn, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Wilmington gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun.

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Wilmington usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wilmington or Vancouver in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Vancouver. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Vancouver because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Vancouver can be very cold. In January, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 45°F (7°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during winter. Wilmington gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Wilmington usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wilmington or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Vancouver. The spring months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

Wilmington is much warmer than Vancouver in the spring. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Vancouver fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In the spring, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Wilmington usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Wilmington