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

Should you visit Yosemite National Park or Banff?

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

Should I visit Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park

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

Banff

Banff is a scenic, outdoorsy, and sporty town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, Banff attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Banff travel costs.

Yosemite 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 El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Banff. Although Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Banff and is known for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Banff is popular for its stunning beauty, pristine nature, and nearby lakes. It is also home to Lake Louise.

How is Yosemite National Park different from Banff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Yosemite National Park or Banff Better for Skiing?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Banff is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Banff is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Yosemite National Park or Banff Better for Nightlife?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Banff is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

Banff offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Yosemite National Park or Banff Better for Resorts?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

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

Yosemite National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Banff is not a resort destination.


Is Yosemite National Park or Banff Better for Hiking?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

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

People visit Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake 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 Yosemite National Park or Banff?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Banff is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yosemite National Park or Banff More Beautiful?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park as well. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

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 Yosemite National Park or Banff Better for Families?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

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

Yosemite National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

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 Yosemite National Park or Banff Better for Couples?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Banff is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Yosemite National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit 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.

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Both Yosemite National Park and Banff offer good public transit options.

Yosemite National Park has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Banff has some public transit options. There's a bus system, Roam, that connects the towns of Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise.

Is Yosemite National Park or Banff a more walkable city?

Yosemite National Park
Banff

Banff is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

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

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

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

How long in Yosemite National Park or Banff?

In either Yosemite National Park or Banff, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than Banff because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Yosemite National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Banff.

Families should spend more time in Banff than Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park or Banff? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yosemite National Park 3-7 
    Banff 2-5

One day in Yosemite National Park or Banff?

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this world-famous 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.

Banff might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Yosemite National Park or Banff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yosemite 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.

Even though Banff is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Yosemite National Park or Banff?

Yosemite National Park is a fun place to experience. In Yosemite 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Banff. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Yosemite National Park or Banff?

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking 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 fun place to experience. Banff is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Banff or Yosemite National Park?

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

  • Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Banff Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Yosemite National Park $158
    Banff $105

The average daily cost (per person) in Yosemite National Park is $158, 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 Yosemite National Park and Banff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yosemite National Park $64
    Banff $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yosemite National Park $128
    Banff $76
Compare Hotels in Yosemite National Park and Banff

Looking for a hotel in Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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: Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices and Banff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yosemite National Park $41
    Banff $5.18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Banff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Banff:

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

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

Prices for flights to both Banff and Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $69
    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.
    Yosemite National Park $19
    Banff $12

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Private Yosemite Tour Indulging in Nature, Flavors, and History: $30
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite’s High Country Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270

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
    Yosemite National Park $11
    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 Yosemite National Park and Banff, we can see that Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park Expensive? and Is Banff Expensive?.