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

Should you visit Atlanta or Berkeley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Berkeley, 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 sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Atlanta and Berkeley: 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
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Berkeley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlanta than Berkeley. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Atlanta is very popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Berkeley attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Berkeley is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Atlanta is famous for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also well known for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Atlanta different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlanta
Berkeley

Atlanta is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Atlanta on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.


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

Atlanta
Berkeley

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

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, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Atlanta or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Berkeley

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Atlanta and Berkeley.

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.

Berkeley offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Berkeley?

Atlanta
Berkeley

Atlanta is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Atlanta is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.


Is Atlanta or Berkeley Better for Families?

Atlanta
Berkeley

Atlanta is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Atlanta is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly city. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Atlanta or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Berkeley

Atlanta and Berkeley are both nice to visit as a couple.

Atlanta is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Atlanta or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.


Is Atlanta or Berkeley Better for Students?

Atlanta
Berkeley

For students, both Atlanta and Berkeley are superb places to visit.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

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

Atlanta
Berkeley

Berkeley is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Berkeley can take you anywhere. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is generally 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.

Is Atlanta or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Berkeley

Berkeley is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. 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.


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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Berkeley?

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

Families should spend more time in Atlanta than Berkeley. 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.

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


  • How many days in Atlanta or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Atlanta or Berkeley?

Atlanta is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Berkeley, 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.

A weekend in Atlanta or Berkeley?

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

In Berkeley, 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 Berkeley has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Berkeley?

Atlanta 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.

Berkeley 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.


A week in Atlanta or Berkeley?

Atlanta is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Berkeley. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley 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 Berkeley is $190. 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 Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Berkeley? 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 Berkeley


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 Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Berkeley $30
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:

  • San Jose Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to San Jose Costa: $35
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Transfer in executiveprivate vehicle from Atlanta Airport(ATL) -Atlanta Downtown: $53
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Downtown: $67
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Downtown to Atlanta Airport: $67
  • Private Car Transfer From Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Metro Area: $67
  • Private Transfer from Atlanta (ATL) Airport to Atlanta City: $95
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $98
  • Roundtrip Transfer PrivateExecutive Vehicle Atlanta Airport(ATL)-AtlantaDowntown: $105
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Sedan Car: $120
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Sedan Car: $120
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Business Car: $120

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $36
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

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • Civil Rights Self-Guided Audio App Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Atlanta Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour Guide: $9.00
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.00
  • Olympic Park & Pemberton Place: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Georgia Aquarium: Ocean Voyager Virtual Tour: $11
  • Georgia Aquarium at Home: Cold Water Quest Virtual Tour: $11
  • Civil Rights Movement in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $14
  • Atlanta- Downtown- An audio walking tour.: $15
  • SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket: $16
  • Atlanta Braves Baseball Game Ticket at Truist Park: $17

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $27
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $65
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Scenic Sausalito Kayak Tour: Beginners Welcome : $85
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Berkeley $13

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
  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Berkeley?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Berkeley, 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 Atlanta or Berkeley?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Atlanta or Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Atlanta during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

Atlanta is much warmer than Berkeley in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlanta 82°F (28°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Berkeley. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Atlanta is around the same temperature as Berkeley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlanta in October average around 66°F (19°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In October, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlanta 66°F (19°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Berkeley. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Berkeley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Atlanta is generally cooler than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 45°F (7°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the winter. Atlanta usually gets more rain in January than Berkeley. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlanta 45°F (7°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the natural beauty during these months.

Atlanta is a little warmer than Berkeley in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 65°F (18°C) in April, and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In April, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlanta 65°F (18°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Atlanta

Atlanta Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 49°F (9°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 57°F (14°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)