A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yellowstone National Park vs. Banff for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

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

Should I visit Yellowstone National Park or Banff? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a vast, world-famous, and popular national park. You'll find world class beauty in Yellowstone National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Banff

Banff is a sporty, adventurous, and scenic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, Banff attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Banff travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park and Banff: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Banff. Although Yellowstone National Park and Banff are both popular with visitors, Banff has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Banff is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Yellowstone National Park is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Banff and is known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Banff is popular for its stunning beauty, pristine nature, and nearby lakes. It is also home to Lake Louise.

How is Yellowstone National Park different from Banff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff Better for Skiing?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Banff is very popular for winter skiing. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Banff should be on your list. The town makes a great base for experiencing the three nearby ski resorts: Banff Sunshine, The Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt Norquay. You can purchase a SkiBig3 Lift Ticket and experience the area's best skiing. There's a long ski season and a stunning setting within the Canadian Rockies.

Yellowstone National Park is not a skiing destination.


Is the Food Better in Yellowstone National Park or Banff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Banff is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Banff is an experience not to be missed. The downtown has bistros, taverns, and many casual eateries. For a more fine dining experience, you can go to one of the luxury hotels, which have nice dining areas. Throughout town you'll find classic Canadian food like poutine, as well as pizza and bar food.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff Better for Nightlife?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Banff is well known for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Banff is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a great town for partying and it's compact and easy to barhop if you want. For the town's size, you'll find a huge number of bars and breweries to choose from, and there's always something going on.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Yellowstone National Park Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Yellowstone National Park is notable for its resorts. However, Banff is not a resort destination.

Yellowstone National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Banff is not a resort destination.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

If you're looking to go hiking, Yellowstone National Park and Banff both have first-rate trails.

People visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Many people visit Banff specifically for its hiking. The town is set within Banff National Park, and is surrounded by world class hiking. There are more than 1,000 miles of trails that wander alongside rivers, lead to waterfalls, or climb mountain peaks. You may also see local wildlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Banff is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Banff to go shopping. There are tons of downtown shops that sell local items, art, sports gear, or clothing.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff More Beautiful?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Yellowstone National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Banff is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Yellowstone National Park as well. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

With stunning beauty, Banff attracts visitors from all around. The dramatic Rocky Mountains and stunning natural beauty make this an iconic and beautiful destination.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff Better for Families?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Yellowstone National Park or Banff.

Yellowstone National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Banff is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy the low key hikes like Tunnel Mountain hike. There's also the Banff Gondola and several playgrounds in downtown Banff. For adventure activities, check out the Golden Skybridge or Lake Louise.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff Better for Couples?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Banff is very popular for couples. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Banff makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a beautiful destination for a honeymoon or anniversary trip. There are countless hikes and stunning natural beauty. There are also spas, horseback riding, and many great restaurants.

Yellowstone National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Yellowstone National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Banff is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Yellowstone National Park. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Banff. There are a couple of hostels around town and plenty of natural beauty that appeals to backpackers.


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

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Banff is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Banff, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a bus system, Roam, that connects the towns of Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise.

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Banff a more walkable city?

Yellowstone National Park
Banff

Banff is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Banff is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and there are trailheads nearby as well.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable national park. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

Should I spend more time in Banff or Yellowstone National Park?

How long in Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

In either Yellowstone National Park or Banff, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than Banff because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Yellowstone National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Banff.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Banff than Yellowstone 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 Banff.


  • How many days in Yellowstone National Park or Banff? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7 
    Banff 2-5

One day in Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Even though Banff is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Banff is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

Yellowstone National Park is a fun place to experience. In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Banff is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this popular destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Banff is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Banff or Yellowstone National Park?

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

  • Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Banff Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Yellowstone National Park $181
    Banff $105

The average daily cost (per person) in Yellowstone National Park is $181, while the average daily cost in Banff is $105. 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 Yellowstone National Park and Banff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yellowstone National Park $74
    Banff $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yellowstone National Park $148
    Banff $76
Compare Hotels in Yellowstone National Park and Banff

Looking for a hotel in Yellowstone National Park or Banff? 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 Yellowstone National Park


Hotels in Banff


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: Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices and Banff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yellowstone National Park $37
    Banff $5.18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Banff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Banff:

  • All-Inclusive Private Banff Tour with Hotel Transfer: $796
  • Banff Canmore to Calgary YYC Airport Transfer: $216
  • Banff to Calgary YYC Airport (Private Transfer with Tesla): $286
  • Calgary Airport to Banff - Private Transfer: $839
  • Canmore/Banff to Calgary Airport (YYC) Private Transfer: $172
  • Private Transfer from Banff to Calgary or Calgary Airport: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Yellowstone National Park or Banff?

Prices for flights to both Banff and Yellowstone National Park 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
    Yellowstone National Park $80
    Banff $49

Typical Food Prices in Banff

Some typical examples of dining costs in Banff are as follows:


  • Tea House Lunch for Two
    $33
  • Hostel Breakfast
    $27
  • McDonalds
    $4.63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Banff

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Banff.

  • Morning Glory ~ Banff's 'Breakfast Bits' Food Tour: $66
  • Bites and Sites of Canmore Walking Food Tour: $77
  • Sips & Sweets - Canadian Evening Food Tour: $85
  • Take a Bite of Banff ~ Canadian Rocky Mountain Food Tour: $87
  • A Taste of Banff Food Tour: $106
  • Banff Food Tour: Eat the Castle: $151
  • Winter Tour with Dinner & Nightrise at Banff Gondola: $166

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yellowstone National Park $34
    Banff $12

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • Yellowstone's Old Faithful Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Yellowstone National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Yellowstone Lake & Hot Springs / 3 Hour Morning or Twilight Tour : $125
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182

Typical Entertainment Prices in Banff

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Banff are as follows:


  • Hot Springs
    $5.31

Tours and Activities in Banff

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Banff are as follows:

  • Town of Banff Highlights 2 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based : $4.00
  • Tips-Based Walking Tour & Town Highlights: $4.02
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Banff and Calgary: $8.05
  • The Sights of Canmore: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $8.07
  • Tunnel Mountain Trail: a Smartphone Audio Nature Tour : $8.12
  • The Sights of a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $8.12
  • Banff Cave & Hot Springs Audio Walking Tour (Not a Ticket): $9.99
  • Explore Banff National Park: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $14
  • Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary Walk Ticket in Canada: $29
  • Half Day Shared Adventure to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake : $29
  • Paranormal History Walking Ghost Tour: $29
  • Sightseeing Chairlift Ride High Above Banff: $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yellowstone National Park $19
    Banff $9.33

Sample the Local Flavors in Banff

Also in Banff, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Park Distillery Tour with Craft Spirits Tasting: $11
  • Park Distillery Tour with Whisky Tasting: $18


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

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