A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albuquerque vs. Saskatoon for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Albuquerque and Saskatoon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a cosmopolitan, cultural, and outdoorsy town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Albuquerque travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a cultural, friendly, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Albuquerque and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Albuquerque than Saskatoon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Albuquerque is more touristy than Saskatoon and is popular for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes. It is also well known for The Old Town. Saskatoon is famous for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Albuquerque different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Albuquerque. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saskatoon. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.


Is the Food Better in Albuquerque or Saskatoon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Albuquerque. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Saskatoon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is Albuquerque or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Albuquerque and Saskatoon.

If you're looking for night time activities Albuquerque has a few options to choose from. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saskatoon. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

Is Albuquerque or Saskatoon Better for its Old Town?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Saskatoon does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Albuquerque offers plenty to see. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

Saskatoon does not have a historic old town.


Is Albuquerque or Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Albuquerque offers some nice hiking trails. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Albuquerque is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Saskatoon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is Albuquerque or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Both Albuquerque and Saskatoon are nice family-friendly destinations.

Albuquerque offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.


Is Albuquerque or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Albuquerque is a very popular place to visit for couples. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Saskatoon is a good town for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.

Is Albuquerque or Saskatoon Better for Students?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque is a good destination for students. However, Saskatoon is not popular with students.

Albuquerque is a good town to visit for students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Saskatoon is not popular with students.

Is Albuquerque or Saskatoon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque and Saskatoon both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Public transit is generally limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.


Is Albuquerque or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Albuquerque
Saskatoon

Albuquerque and Saskatoon are nice when it comes to walkability.

Albuquerque is somewhat walkable. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

Saskatoon is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting? and Is Saskatoon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Albuquerque?

How long in Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Albuquerque and Saskatoon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Albuquerque than in Saskatoon. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Albuquerque, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saskatoon.

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

Couples should spend more time in Albuquerque than Saskatoon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Albuquerque that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albuquerque than Saskatoon 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 Albuquerque.


  • How many days in Albuquerque or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Albuquerque 2-4 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Albuquerque. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Saskatoon. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Albuquerque. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the friendly destination of Saskatoon. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cosmopolitan town of Albuquerque. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The authentic city of Saskatoon offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

Albuquerque is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saskatoon. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or Albuquerque?

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

  • Albuquerque Prices
    USA Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Albuquerque $165
    Saskatoon $150

The average daily cost (per person) in Albuquerque is $165, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $150. 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 Albuquerque and Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albuquerque $69
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albuquerque $138
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Albuquerque and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Albuquerque or Saskatoon? 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 Albuquerque


Hotels in Saskatoon


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: Albuquerque Hotel Prices and Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albuquerque $37
    Saskatoon $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

Also for Albuquerque, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $45
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $89
  • Albuquerque International Sunport Private Transfer: $196
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Truth or Consequences - Transfer: $299
  • Balloon Fiesta Albuquerque 2024 transfers: $625

Is it cheaper to fly into Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon and Albuquerque 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
    Albuquerque $71
    Saskatoon $55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

For Albuquerque, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albuquerque $24
    Saskatoon $17

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Albuquerque.

  • Historic Old Town Albuquerque smart phone App/Audio Walking Tour: $7.95
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Albuquerque by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Albuquerque by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Old Town Hauntings of the Wild West Ghost Tour: $24
  • Old Town Albuquerque Ghost Tour: $24
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Duke City Pedaler: Beverage Tour to Old Town/Sawmill Albuquerque : $32
  • 12pm Old Town History, Legends & Lore Tour: $32
  • 8pm Original Ghost Tour of Old Town: $32
  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35

Tours and Activities in Saskatoon

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

  • Donna Birkmaier Park Birding and Walking Tour: $62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albuquerque $20
    Saskatoon $9.66


When comparing the travel costs between Albuquerque and Saskatoon, we can see that Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque Expensive? and Is Saskatoon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Albuquerque or Saskatoon?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Saskatoon. When comparing the sizes of Albuquerque and Saskatoon, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.