A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Albuquerque for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Atlanta or Albuquerque?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Albuquerque, 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.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a diverse, sprawling, and suburban city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a cultural, outdoorsy, and desert town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Atlanta and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Albuquerque?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlanta than Albuquerque, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlanta is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Albuquerque is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium. Albuquerque is well known for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Atlanta different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Atlanta is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Atlanta from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.


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

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Atlanta and Albuquerque.

Atlanta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

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

Is Atlanta or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Atlanta is a great city for nightlife. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Atlanta has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. 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.

Is Atlanta or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Albuquerque has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.


Is Atlanta or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Albuquerque has hiking trails worth exploring. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Albuquerque?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Atlanta is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Atlanta. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

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.

Is Atlanta or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Atlanta is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly destination. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Atlanta or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a great town for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Atlanta or Albuquerque Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

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 Atlanta or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Atlanta is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for students.

Many students visit Atlanta. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

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


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

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Atlanta and Albuquerque both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

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

Is Atlanta or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Albuquerque

Atlanta and Albuquerque are notable when it comes to walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Albuquerque?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Atlanta or Albuquerque? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Albuquerque 2-4

One day in Atlanta or Albuquerque?

Atlanta is a sprawling city where you can fill many days. 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.

In Albuquerque, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Atlanta or Albuquerque?

Atlanta is a sprawling big city where you can fill many days. 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.

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

Five days in Atlanta or Albuquerque?

The cultural city of Atlanta 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.

Albuquerque is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Atlanta or Albuquerque?

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

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Albuquerque or Atlanta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in Albuquerque is $135. 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 Atlanta and Albuquerque in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Albuquerque $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Albuquerque $138
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Albuquerque

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Albuquerque? 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Albuquerque


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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Albuquerque $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

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

  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL):Transfer to Atlanta: $277
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $194
  • Roundtrip transfer in executive private car from Atlanta Airport to Alpharetta: $144
  • Private Transfer: Atlanta to H. J. Airport ATL in Luxury SUV : $135
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV: $135
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $133
  • Private Transfer: Atlanta to H. J. Airport ATL in Luxury SUV/Van: $133
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV: $133
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL by Luxury SUV: $126
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Business Car: $119
  • Roundtrip Transfer PrivateExecutive Vehicle Atlanta Airport(ATL)-AtlantaDowntown: $105
  • Atlanta to Atlanta Airport (ATL) Departure Private Transfer: $97

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Round-Trip Transfer: $250
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Pagosa Springs Private Transfer: $174
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Private Transfer: $125
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $78
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $39
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $39

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Albuquerque?

Prices for flights to both Albuquerque and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $43
    Albuquerque $41
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

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

  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Albuquerque $24

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market: $95
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta: $69
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Midtown Atlanta: $69
  • 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour : $99
  • 3-Hour Private Atlanta MCU Comics Inspired Film Location Tour: $175
  • 90-Minute Guided Sightseeing Tour by E-Car or MiniBus: $36
  • 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta: $36
  • African American Atlanta Culture Tour by Private Car Service : $90
  • African-American Heritage&Civil Rights Atlanta Half-Day Tour: $653
  • Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus: $70
  • Atlanta Beltline Cocktails and Bites Experience: $129
  • Atlanta Braves Baseball Game Ticket at Truist Park: $22

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • 4pm - 75 Minute Private Ghost Tour Up To 5 People For All Ages in New Mexico: $108
  • 6pm PRIVATE GHOST TOUR of Old Town - 90 Minutes: $135
  • ABQ Beer Tour: A Curated Craft Beer Experience in the Land of Enchantment: $105
  • ABQ City Guided History Tour: $35
  • Albuquerque Old Town Art Tour with Wine & Museum Admission: $85
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $49
  • Albuquerque Snowshoe Experience: $135
  • Albuquerque’s Family Adventure of A Journey of Discovery: $287
  • Albuquerque’s Family Adventure: A Journey of Discovery: $606

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Albuquerque $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120
  • North Georgia Mountains Two Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $137
  • Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting: $159
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $165
  • North Georgia Mountains Private Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $180


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


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Albuquerque, 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.