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

Should you visit Albuquerque or Winnipeg?

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 Winnipeg. 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 desert, historic, and traditional town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Albuquerque travel costs.

Winnipeg

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

Albuquerque and Winnipeg: 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
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Albuquerque or Winnipeg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Albuquerque than Winnipeg. While Winnipeg is larger than Albuquerque, Albuquerque has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Albuquerque is more touristy than Winnipeg and is known for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes. It is also well known for The Old Town. Winnipeg is famous for its festivals, culture, and railway connections.

How is Albuquerque different from Winnipeg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Albuquerque or Winnipeg.

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.

Winnipeg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some unique museums around town including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Other popular museums are the Manitoba Museum and the Manitoba Children's Museum.


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

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Albuquerque is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Albuquerque has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Winnipeg area. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants around town that serve a mix of local dishes and international cuisines. A must-see part of the city is the historic Forks Market.

Is Albuquerque or Winnipeg Better for Nightlife?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

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

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 Winnipeg. The city has an active nightlife, even during the winter months. You'll find dance clubs, bars, and pubs around town that are popular with locals and visitors alike.

Is Albuquerque or Winnipeg Better for its Old Town?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Albuquerque is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Winnipeg 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.

Winnipeg does not have a historic old town.


Is Albuquerque or Winnipeg Better for Hiking?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Albuquerque is a town with good options for hiking. However, Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Albuquerque. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albuquerque or Winnipeg?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Albuquerque is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Albuquerque is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Winnipeg to go shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town, from boutiques to big box shops and even some outlets.

Is Albuquerque or Winnipeg Better for Families?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Both Albuquerque and Winnipeg 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.

Winnipeg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Assiniboine Park Zoo or the Manitoba Children's Museum. There are a number of parks and playgrounds around town as well as the Prairie Dog Central Railway. There are many kid-friendly restaurants in the city as well.


Is Albuquerque or Winnipeg Better for Couples?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Albuquerque is great for its romantic activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Albuquerque is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Winnipeg is a good town for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy wandering through Assiniboine Park. There are also many romantic restaurants and spas for couples.

Is Albuquerque or Winnipeg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Winnipeg. While it's often overlooked by backpackers, there are a couple of hostels around town.

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.

Is Albuquerque or Winnipeg Better for Students?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Albuquerque is a town with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Winnipeg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Albuquerque. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Winnipeg is not popular with students.


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

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Albuquerque and Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg. There's a bus system around town, but many visitors prefer to have a vehicle.

Is Albuquerque or Winnipeg a more walkable city?

Albuquerque
Winnipeg

Albuquerque is a town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Winnipeg is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Winnipeg is generally not very walkable. While there are a few walkable neighborhoods, the city itself is not particularly walkable, particularly during the cold winter months.

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

Should I spend more time in Winnipeg or Albuquerque?

How long in Albuquerque or Winnipeg?

It's fun to spend time in either Albuquerque or Winnipeg. In our opinion, Albuquerque has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Albuquerque than Winnipeg. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Albuquerque than Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Albuquerque 2-4 
    Winnipeg 2-4

One day in Albuquerque or Winnipeg?

The town of Albuquerque offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Winnipeg. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Albuquerque or Winnipeg?

Albuquerque is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Albuquerque, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the welcoming destination of Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg?

Albuquerque is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The cultural city of Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg?

Albuquerque is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Winnipeg. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Albuquerque $165
    Winnipeg $256

The average daily cost (per person) in Albuquerque is $165, while the average daily cost in Winnipeg is $256. 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 Winnipeg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albuquerque $69
    Winnipeg $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albuquerque $138
    Winnipeg $184
Compare Hotels in Albuquerque and Winnipeg

Looking for a hotel in Albuquerque or Winnipeg? 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 Winnipeg


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 Winnipeg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albuquerque $37
    Winnipeg -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Balloon Fiesta Albuquerque 2024 transfers: $625
  • Albuquerque International Sunport Private Transfer: $196
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $90
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $45
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Winnipeg

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

  • Winnipeg One way Private transfer from/to the Airport: $200
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $163
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg Hotels: $96
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Hotels to Winnipeg Airport (YWG): $96
  • Winnipeg accomodation to Winnipeg Airport (YWG) - Departure Private Transfer: $82
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $82
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport to Winnipeg Accommodation : $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Albuquerque or Winnipeg?

Prices for flights to both Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg $9.38

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
    Winnipeg $2.53

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • A Food and Art Walking Tour through Old Town ABQ: $150
  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • 4pm Private Ghost Tour of Old Town Albuquerque: $67
  • 6pm Private Ghost Tour of Old Town Albuquerque: $81
  • 8pm Private Ghost Tour of Old Town Albuquerque : $94
  • ABQ City Guided History Tour: $35
  • Albucreepy Haunted Trolley Tour: $50
  • Albuquerque Desert Shadows Rising Ghost Tour: $24
  • Albuquerque Desert Shadows Rising Ghost Tour: $26
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $49
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Albuquerque Snowshoe Experience: $159

Tours and Activities in Winnipeg

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

  • Discover Assiniboine Park with a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.71
  • Explore The Challenge of Moderninity with Walking Tours in Winnipeg, MB: $6.71
  • Louis Riel & Red River Metis Trails Tour: $97
  • Manitoba Legislative Grounds: Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.71
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Winnipeg MB: $11
  • Private City Tour in Winnipeg: $97
  • The Forks Historic Site: a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.71
  • The Sights of South a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.71
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Winnipeg by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Walk 4 Smartphone Audio Walking Tours: $19
  • Winnipeg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $41
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albuquerque $20
    Winnipeg -


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Albuquerque Expensive? and Is Winnipeg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Albuquerque or Winnipeg?

Winnipeg has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Albuquerque. When comparing the sizes of Albuquerque and Winnipeg, 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.