A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. Cape Cod for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Baltimore or Cape Cod?

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 Cape Cod can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a historic, vibrant, and diverse city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a laid-back, wealthy, and maritime beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and food.

Baltimore and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Cape Cod?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Cape Cod are both popular with visitors, Baltimore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Baltimore is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Cape Cod is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Cape Cod is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Baltimore different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Baltimore is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Baltimore. 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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Baltimore or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Cape Cod both to be high quality 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.

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Baltimore or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Baltimore is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Baltimore for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Baltimore or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Cape Cod makes a nice vacation spot. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.


Is Baltimore or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is well known for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Baltimore or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Cape Cod?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.


Is Baltimore or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Cape Cod.

Baltimore is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Baltimore or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Cape Cod frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Baltimore or Cape Cod Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Baltimore is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.


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

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Baltimore is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Baltimore can get you to most places easily. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Baltimore or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Cape Cod

Baltimore is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

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.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Cape Cod?

Both Baltimore and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Baltimore. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Cape Cod 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 Baltimore.


  • How many days in Baltimore or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Baltimore or Cape Cod?

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.

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Cape Cod?

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.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Cape Cod?

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.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.

A week in Baltimore or Cape Cod?

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.

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, 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 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, Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod is $183. 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 Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Cape Cod? 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 Cape Cod


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Cape Cod $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $60
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Cape Cod $27

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Assateague Island Cruise Departs from Ocean Pines: $45
  • Baltimore Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise Tour: $105
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Baltimore Harbor Tour: $31
  • Baltimore Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $92
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $12
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore Signature Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point: $99
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Cape Cod $19

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


When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Cape Cod, we can see that Baltimore 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 Cape Cod Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Baltimore or Cape Cod?

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 Baltimore or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Baltimore during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Baltimore is a little warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the summer, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Cape Cod. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Cape Cod. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod during autumn. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Cape Cod. The winter months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. The weather in Baltimore can be very cold. Baltimore is much warmer than Cape Cod in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Baltimore usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Cape Cod in the Spring?

Both Cape Cod and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Baltimore is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod during spring. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In April, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Baltimore

Baltimore Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)