A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arlington vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Arlington or Toronto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Toronto, 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.

Arlington

Arlington is a international, historical, and educational city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Arlington travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant, cultural, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Toronto travel costs.

Arlington and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Arlington or Toronto?

You'll generally find more things to do in Toronto than Arlington. Toronto is bigger than Arlington, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Arlington is well known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Toronto is well known for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. Also, Toronto is famous for the CN Tower.

How is Arlington different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arlington or Toronto?

Arlington
Toronto

Toronto is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Toronto has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.


Is the Food Better in Arlington or Toronto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Toronto

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Arlington and Toronto.

Arlington has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Toronto makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Arlington or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Toronto

Toronto is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Toronto is a must-see party destination. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

The people in Arlington know how to have a good time. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Toronto?

Arlington
Toronto

Toronto is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Toronto specifically to go shopping. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Arlington is a great destination for shopping. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.


Is Arlington or Toronto Better for Families?

Arlington
Toronto

Toronto is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toronto. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Arlington or Toronto Better for Couples?

Arlington
Toronto

Toronto is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Toronto makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Is Arlington or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Toronto

Arlington and Toronto are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.


Is Arlington or Toronto Better for Students?

Arlington
Toronto

Toronto is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Toronto is a great destination for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Students come from all over to stay in Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Is Arlington or Toronto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington
Toronto

Visitors will find first-rate public transit in both Arlington and Toronto.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Arlington can take you anywhere. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Toronto has a great public transit system. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

Is Arlington or Toronto a more walkable city?

Arlington
Toronto

Arlington and Toronto are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Arlington is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Toronto is very walkable. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.


For even more information, also check out Is Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Toronto?

Both Arlington and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Toronto than in Arlington. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Arlington, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toronto than Arlington 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 Toronto.


  • How many days in Arlington or Toronto? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Toronto 3-7

One day in Arlington or Toronto?

In Arlington, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

People visit Toronto because there is so much to do. 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.

A weekend in Arlington or Toronto?

In Arlington, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arlington has to offer.

People visit Toronto because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Arlington or Toronto?

Arlington is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

People visit Toronto because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Arlington or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arlington. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arlington. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Toronto is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Toronto, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Toronto or Arlington?

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

  • Arlington Prices
    USA Prices
    Toronto Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Arlington $323
    Toronto $248

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $323, while the average daily cost in Toronto is $248. 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 Arlington and Toronto in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Toronto $85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Toronto $170
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Toronto

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Toronto? 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 Arlington


Hotels in Toronto


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: Arlington Hotel Prices and Toronto Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Toronto $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Toronto

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Toronto are as follows:


  • Airport Shuttle
    $26
  • Train: 2 Day Passes
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toronto

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

  • Transfer from Toronto City Center to Pearson Airport(YYZ): $50
  • Transfer from Pearson Airport(YYZ) to Toronto City Center: $50
  • Transfer Toronto,Canada (Downtown) to Niagara Falls, Canada: $176
  • Transfer Toronto Pearson International Airport YYZ to Niagara-on-the-Lake,Canada: $158
  • Transfer Toronto Pearson International Airport YYZ to Niagara Falls, Canada: $158
  • Transfer Toronto Hotels to Toronto Pearson Airport YYZ: $41
  • Shuttle Transfer Between Downtown and Niagara Falls: $113
  • Private Transfer to Niagara Falls: $156
  • Private Transfer to Niagara Falls: $271
  • Private Transfer to Kingston City or Queen's Unive…: $822
  • Private Transfer for 1-10 Passengers to Downtown: $174
  • Private Transfer Pearson Int. Apt to Waterloo: $268

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Toronto?

Prices for flights to both Toronto and Arlington 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
    Arlington $139
    Toronto $111

Typical Food Prices in Toronto

For Toronto, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch at St. Lawrence Market for Two
    $23
  • Dinner at Mill Street Brewery (for 2)
    $55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toronto

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

  • Premium Harbor Cruise with Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner: $49
  • Father's Day Premier Cruise with Brunch or Dinner: $56
  • Toronto Premier Dinner Cruise on Odyssey in Toronto Harbour: $61
  • Toronto Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $71
  • Must-Do Toronto Food Tour by Toronto's First Food Tour Company: $73
  • Niagara Falls Evening Tour with Boat, Dinner & Illumination Tower: $73
  • Kensington Market 'Taste the World' Food Tour: $73
  • 3–Hour Secret Food Tour: $77
  • Taste of the Continents: International Food Tour : $85
  • Kensington Market International Food Tour: $93
  • Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour With Boat Cruise & Dinner (optional): $153
  • Toronto Food Tour with Local Foodie, Personalized & Private: $161

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Toronto $31

Typical Entertainment Prices in Toronto

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Toronto's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Gallery of Ontario for Two
    $15
  • CN Tower at night for Two
    $35
  • Harbour Dinner Cruise
    $26
  • Bata Shoe Museum (2)
    $7.20

Tours and Activities in Toronto

For Toronto, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Historic Brothels of Old Toronto Walking Tour: $21
  • 1 Day Sightseeing Tour at Toronto City: $68
  • 1 Hour Private Photoshoot Experience in Toronto: $73
  • 1-Hour Private Guided Photography Tour in Toronto: $294
  • 14-Minute Helicopter Tour Over Toronto: $223
  • 3hr Shared Sailing Adventure: $175
  • 60-Minute Toronto Sightseeing Harbour Tour: $27
  • 7-Minute Helicopter Tour over Toronto: $124
  • Algonquin Park Hiking: Adventure Tour from Toronto: $137
  • Algonquin Park Tour with Hiking and Swimming: $146
  • Algonquin Provincial Park Day Tour from Toronto: $139
  • An Exclusive Canadian Wine Experience: $128

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Toronto $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Toronto

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toronto:

  • Distillery District Historic Walking Tour: $20
  • Spirits of the Distillery District Ghost Tour: $25
  • Distillery & Old Town Private Walking Tour: $27
  • Corktown and Distillery District Tour: $29
  • Short Distillery District Segway Tour: $35
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $43
  • Distillery District Breakfast Walking Tour: $53
  • Craft Brewery Tour: $80
  • Guided Bicycle Tour - Toronto Waterfront, Island and Distillery: $81
  • Toronto Craft Brewery Tour: $91
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake, Wine Tasting & Chocolate Day Tour: $109
  • Blue Mountain Day Trip: Wine tasting, Horseback & Outdoor Fun!: $120


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Arlington. When comparing the sizes of Arlington and Toronto, 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.


When is the best time to visit Arlington or Toronto?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arlington or Toronto in the Summer?

Both Toronto and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arlington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toronto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arlington is a little warmer than Toronto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arlington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Toronto averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Toronto. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. Arlington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toronto during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arlington usually receives more rain than Toronto. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Toronto 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Arlington or Toronto in the Autumn?

Both Toronto and Arlington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arlington for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Toronto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Arlington is generally a little warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 60°F (15°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Arlington often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Arlington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in October than Toronto. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Toronto 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Arlington or Toronto in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Toronto. Many visitors come to Arlington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Toronto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Toronto can be very cold during winter. Arlington can get quite cold in the winter. Arlington is much warmer than Toronto in the winter. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Arlington usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during winter. Arlington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arlington usually receives more rain than Toronto. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Toronto -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Arlington or Toronto in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Toronto. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Toronto because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Arlington is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arlington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Toronto averages at about 7°C (44°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arlington this time of the year. In the spring, Arlington often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in April than Toronto. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Toronto 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Toronto and Arlington

Arlington Toronto
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) -4°C (25°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -4°C (26°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 1°C (34°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 12°C (54°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 18°C (64°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 21°C (70°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 21°C (69°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 11°C (51°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) -1°C (30°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)