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

Should you visit Baltimore or Berkeley?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Berkeley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Baltimore 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Berkeley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore than Berkeley, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Baltimore is more popular for its big city activities, while Berkeley is known for its impressive beauty. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Berkeley is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Baltimore different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baltimore or Berkeley?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Baltimore and Berkeley.

Many visitors head to Baltimore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Baltimore or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Berkeley both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Baltimore. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Berkeley has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Baltimore or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Baltimore and Berkeley.

Baltimore is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Many people head to Berkeley for the nightlife scene. 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 Baltimore or Berkeley?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Shopping is a popular activity in both Berkeley and Baltimore.

Baltimore is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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 Baltimore or Berkeley Better for Families?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

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 Baltimore or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Both Baltimore and Berkeley are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Baltimore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Berkeley is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Baltimore or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berkeley is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.


Is Baltimore or Berkeley Better for Students?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

Berkeley is very popular with students. 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.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

Baltimore
Berkeley

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Baltimore. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Is Baltimore or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Berkeley

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Baltimore is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Baltimore and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Baltimore. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Baltimore 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 Baltimore or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Baltimore or Berkeley?

The city of Baltimore offers food and shopping. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Berkeley. 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 Baltimore or Berkeley?

Baltimore 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 Baltimore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quirky destination of Berkeley. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Berkeley?

Baltimore 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quirky city of Berkeley. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Baltimore or Berkeley?

Baltimore 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.

Berkeley is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Baltimore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $184, 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 Baltimore and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore 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 Baltimore


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: Baltimore Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $62
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $209
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240

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
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $43
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $126
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Baltimore 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
    Baltimore $46
    Berkeley $36
Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

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

  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $76
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $126
  • Baltimore 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $194
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

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.
    Baltimore $18
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

Here are a few actual costs in Baltimore for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park: $5.00
  • Downtown Baltimore In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $12
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $14
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $24
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • Sights and Sips Private City Sightseeing Cruise: $31

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $16
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • From Patapsco Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175

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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Berkeley?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore 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 Baltimore or Berkeley?

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 Baltimore or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Berkeley. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Baltimore is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Berkeley. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Baltimore is generally cooler than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Baltimore usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baltimore can get quite cold in the winter. Baltimore is much colder than Berkeley in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Baltimore is cooler than Berkeley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Berkeley averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Baltimore usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Baltimore

Baltimore Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)