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

Should you visit Zion National Park or Victoria?

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 Victoria, 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 stunning, world-renowned, and breathtaking park. Zion National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a scenic, relaxing, and cultural city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Victoria travel costs.

Zion 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 Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • 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 Zion National Park or Victoria?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zion National Park than Victoria, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zion National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Victoria is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Zion National Park is more touristy than Victoria and is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Also, Zion National Park is famous for Angels Landing. Victoria is well known for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Zion National Park different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zion National Park
Victoria

Victoria is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Victoria is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.


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

Zion National Park
Victoria

Victoria is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

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 Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Zion National Park
Victoria

Victoria is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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

Is Zion National Park or Victoria Better for Resorts?

Zion National Park
Victoria

Zion National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Victoria is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Zion National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Victoria is not a resort destination.


Is Zion National Park or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park
Victoria

Zion National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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

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 Zion National Park or Victoria?

Zion National Park
Victoria

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

Victoria is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

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 Victoria More Beautiful?

Zion National Park
Victoria

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

Zion National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Zion National Park or Victoria Better for Families?

Zion National Park
Victoria

Zion National Park and Victoria are both great 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, Victoria is very family-friendly. 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 Zion National Park or Victoria Better for Couples?

Zion National Park
Victoria

Zion National Park and Victoria are both great to visit as a couple.

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

Victoria is a great 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 Zion National Park or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion National Park
Victoria

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


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

Zion National Park
Victoria

Zion National Park is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Victoria is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Zion National Park has some public transit options. 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.

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.

Is Zion National Park or Victoria a more walkable city?

Zion National Park
Victoria

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

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

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 Victoria Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Zion National Park or Victoria?

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

Families should spend more time in Victoria than Zion 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 Zion 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 Zion National Park than Victoria 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 Zion National Park.


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

One day in Zion National Park or Victoria?

The beautiful park of Zion 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 museums and nightlife when visiting the scenic destination of Victoria. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Victoria?

Zion National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Victoria is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Victoria. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Zion National Park or Victoria?

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

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Victoria. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days 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.

A week in Zion National Park or Victoria?

Zion 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 Zion National Park has to offer. This park offers something for everyone.

Victoria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Zion National Park?

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

  • Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Zion National Park $146
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Zion National Park is $146, 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 Zion National Park and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zion National Park $60
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zion National Park $120
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Zion National Park and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Zion 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 Zion 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: Zion National Park Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zion National Park $30
    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 Zion National Park or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Zion 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
    Zion National Park $64
    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.
    Zion National Park $26
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

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

  • Private Sunset Guided Tour to Great Chamber by Four-Wheel Drive: $125
  • Slot Canyon Tour & Sandboarding UTV Adventure: $129
  • 2-Hour Private Light Painting Experience on the Sand Dunes: $299
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $125
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105
  • Coral Pink Sand Dunes Ride Climb and Rappel Adventure: $139
  • East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $174
  • East Zion Brushy Cove Jeep Tour: $117
  • East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour: $201
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $130
  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $22

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
  • Victoria Butterfly Gardens Ticket: $15
  • Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $15
  • Iconic & Obscure Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Chinatown Walking Tour: $16
  • Historical Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Walking Tour through History and Heritage: $17
  • Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square: $17
  • Royal BC Museum Admission Ticket: $17
  • Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $17
  • Royal B.C. Museum in Full-Day Admission Ticket: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zion National Park $8.28
    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 : $143
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


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

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 Victoria Expensive?.