A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. San Diego for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Baltimore or San Diego?

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 San Diego can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a historic, vibrant, and diverse city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Baltimore and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or San Diego?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Baltimore. San Diego is bigger than Baltimore, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is better known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Baltimore is more popular for its food and shopping. San Diego is more touristy than Baltimore and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo. Baltimore is well known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities.

How is Baltimore different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Baltimore and San Diego.

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 San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Is the Food Better in Baltimore or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Baltimore has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

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 San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is well known for its live music scene. However, Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is very good for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, San Diego makes a nice vacation spot. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, San Diego is a very popular vacation destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or San Diego?

Baltimore is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Baltimore is well-known for its shopping. 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 go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baltimore. 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.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, San Diego has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore and San Diego are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

It's common for backpackers to visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Baltimore or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is a world-class destination for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Baltimore can get you around 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Baltimore or San Diego a more walkable city?

Baltimore is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or San Diego?

In either Baltimore or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Baltimore because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Baltimore or San Diego?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. 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 San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Baltimore. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the energetic destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful city of Baltimore. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the relaxed coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Baltimore or San Diego?

Baltimore 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.

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Baltimore. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego 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 San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Baltimore is a little warmer than San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the summer, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and San Diego. 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 San Diego because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Baltimore is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Baltimore in October average around 57°F (14°C), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during autumn. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Baltimore usually receives more rain than San Diego. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Baltimore or San Diego in the Winter?

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

The weather in Baltimore can be very cold. In January, Baltimore is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 32°F (0°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the winter, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego 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 San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Baltimore is cooler than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during spring. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Baltimore usually receives more rain than San Diego. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Baltimore