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

Should you visit Zion National Park or Banff?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zion National Park or Banff, 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.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a breathtaking, stunning, and world-renowned park. You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Zion 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. Banff is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Banff travel costs.

Zion National Park and Banff: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Zion National Park and Banff are popular destinations, Zion National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zion National Park is very popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, and impressive beauty, while Banff attracts visitors for its skiing, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Zion National Park is more touristy than Banff and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also well known for Angels Landing. Banff is famous for its stunning beauty, pristine nature, and nearby lakes.

How is Zion National Park different from Banff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zion National Park or Banff Better for Skiing?

Banff is a must-visit destination for winter skiing. However, Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Banff is among the best in the world. 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.

Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zion National Park or Banff?

Zion National Park is a moderate park for its sights and museums. However, Banff does not have museums and landmarks.

Zion National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

Banff does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Banff makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Zion National Park or Banff Better for Nightlife?

Banff is well known for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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 Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Zion National Park or Banff Better for Resorts?

Zion National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Banff is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Zion National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Banff is not a resort destination.

Is Zion National Park or Banff Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park and Banff are both places where visitors can find fantastic hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Around Banff visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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 Zion National Park or Banff?

Banff is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Banff is a great destination for shopping. There are tons of downtown shops that sell local items, art, sports gear, or clothing.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Is Zion National Park or Banff More Beautiful?

Zion 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 Zion National Park as well. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

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 Zion National Park or Banff Better for Families?

Zion National Park and Banff are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Banff is very family-friendly. 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 Zion National Park or Banff Better for Couples?

Banff is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Zion National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Banff has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Zion National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

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

Zion 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 Zion National Park. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Zion National Park and Banff.

You'll find some public transit in Zion National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

While Banff offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a bus system, Roam, that connects the towns of Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise.

Is Zion National Park or Banff a more walkable city?

Banff is well known for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Zion National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

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

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

How long in Zion National Park or Banff?

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

Families should spend more time in Banff than Zion 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 Zion 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.

One day in Zion National Park or Banff?

In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This 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. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zion National Park or Banff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zion 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 popular place to visit. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Banff has to offer.

Five days in Zion National Park or Banff?

Zion National Park is a fun place to experience. In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Banff is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Banff has to offer.

A week in Zion National Park or Banff?

In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this world-renowned destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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 Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zion National Park and Banff, we can see that Zion 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 Zion National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zion 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 Zion National Park Expensive? and Is Banff Expensive?.