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

Should you visit Yellowstone National Park or Victoria?

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

Should I visit Yellowstone National Park or Victoria? 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 unique, stunning, and breathtaking national park. Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Victoria travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park. Although Yellowstone National Park and Victoria are popular destinations, Yellowstone National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yellowstone National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Victoria attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Victoria and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. It is also well known for Old Faithful. Victoria is famous for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Yellowstone National Park different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

Victoria is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Victoria. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

Victoria is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Victoria area. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

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 Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

Victoria is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

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 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 Victoria Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Victoria is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Yellowstone National Park to choose from. 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.

Victoria is not a resort destination.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

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 Yellowstone National Park or Victoria?

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

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

Many visitors go to Victoria to go shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Victoria More Beautiful?

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

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

Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Victoria Better for Families?

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

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

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.

Victoria is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Yellowstone National Park or Victoria Better for Couples?

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

With fun activities for couples, both Yellowstone National Park and Victoria make for a superb place to visit.

Couples visit Yellowstone National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Victoria is a great national park if you're traveling as 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.

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

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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 visit Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.


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

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

Victoria is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Victoria a more walkable city?

Yellowstone National Park
Victoria

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

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

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 Victoria Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Yellowstone National Park or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Yellowstone National Park or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Yellowstone National Park, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

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


  • How many days in Yellowstone National Park or Victoria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7 
    Victoria 3-4

One day in Yellowstone National Park or Victoria?

The beautiful national park of Yellowstone 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing city of Victoria. 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 Victoria?

Yellowstone National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Victoria. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Yellowstone National Park or Victoria?

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Victoria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Yellowstone National Park or Victoria?

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.

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


Which place is cheaper, Victoria 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
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Yellowstone National Park $181
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Yellowstone National Park is $181, while the average daily cost in Victoria is $201. 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 Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yellowstone National Park $74
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yellowstone National Park $148
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Yellowstone National Park and Victoria

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


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 Victoria Hotel Prices.

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

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: $131
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer: $77
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Cruise Terminal 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

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

Prices for flights to both Victoria 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
    Victoria $47

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
  • Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour - Cowichan Valley : $125
  • Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour: $144
  • Gourmet Dinner Tour Including Local Beer, Wine and City Highlights: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yellowstone National Park $34
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $250
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $299
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Salt Lake City: Yellowstone 4-day Tour with Airport Pickup: $918
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36

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
  • Historical Chinatown Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square: $17
  • Walking Tour through History and Heritage: $17
  • Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $17
  • Royal B.C. Museum in Full-Day Admission Ticket: $21
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $24
  • Malahat SkyWalk Tickets: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yellowstone National Park $19
    Victoria $16

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 : $144
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


When comparing the travel costs between Yellowstone National Park and Victoria, we can see that Victoria 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 Yellowstone National Park Expensive? and Is Victoria Expensive?.