Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Beijing?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Jump to 
Should you visit Beijing or Calgary?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Calgary can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.
Beijing
Beijing is a historic, massive, and jam-packed city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Beijing travel costs.
Calgary
Calgary is a authentic, western, and local city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Calgary travel costs.
Beijing and Calgary: Pros and Cons
Beijing
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Known for its beauty
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Big city activities
- Home to the Forbidden City
Calgary
Pros- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Less museums and historical sights
- Less popular for food
Is there more to do in Beijing or Calgary?
Travelers will usually find more to do in Beijing than Calgary, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Beijing is more touristy than Calgary and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Calgary is popular for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.
How is Beijing different from Calgary?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Calgary and Beijing. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Calgary?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Beijing are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.
If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.
Is the Food Better in Beijing or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.
Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.
Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.
Is Beijing or Calgary Better for Nightlife?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.
Beijing is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.
If you're looking for night time activities Calgary has a few options to choose from. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.
Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Calgary?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.
Beijing is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.
Calgary has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.
Is Beijing or Calgary More Beautiful?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing is a city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.
Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.
Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.
Is Beijing or Calgary Better for Families?
Beijing
Calgary
Both Beijing and Calgary are good to visit with kids.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.
Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.
Is Beijing or Calgary Better for Couples?
Beijing
Calgary
Both Beijing and Calgary are good destinations for a couple's getaway.
Beijing is a good city for couples to visit. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.
Calgary is a nice destination for couples. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.
Is Beijing or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing is well known for backpackers. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.
Beijing is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.
Plenty of backpackers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.
Is Beijing or Calgary Better for Students?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing is well known for students. However, Calgary is not popular with students.
Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.
Calgary is not popular with students.
Is Beijing or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing is well known for its public transit. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
Public transit in Beijing can get you to some places easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.
While Calgary offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.
Is Beijing or Calgary a more walkable city?
Beijing
Calgary
Beijing and Calgary both are decent when exploring on foot.
Beijing is generally not very walkable. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.
Calgary is generally not a very walkable city. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.
For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Calgary or Beijing?
How long in Beijing or Calgary?
You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Beijing or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Beijing than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.
Families should spend more time in Beijing than Calgary. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Beijing, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Beijing than Calgary. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Beijing that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Calgary 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 Beijing.
-
How many days in Beijing or Calgary? Ideal Length of StayBeijing 3-7Calgary 1-2
One day in Beijing or Calgary?
Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
In Calgary, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.
A weekend in Beijing or Calgary?
Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.
In Calgary, you'll find nightlife 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 Calgary has to offer.
Five days in Beijing or Calgary?
Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
Calgary 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 Beijing or Calgary?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Calgary. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Calgary. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Historical Tours in China, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Canada, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada.
-
Beijing Prices
China PricesCalgary Prices
Canada Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBeijing $89Calgary $169
The average daily cost (per person) in Beijing is $89, while the average daily cost in Calgary is $169. 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 Beijing and Calgary in more detail.
Accommodation
-
Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBeijing $39Calgary $70
-
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBeijing $78Calgary $140
Compare Hotels in Beijing and Calgary
Looking for a hotel in Beijing or Calgary? 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.
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: Calgary Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
-
Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Beijing $7.66Calgary $12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Beijing
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Beijing:
-
Taxi$4.68
-
Train from Airport for Two$6.85
-
Taxi to Hotel$8.22
-
2 Metro Passes$2.19
-
Metro$0.55
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Beijing
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Beijing:
- Jinshanling Great Wall Self-hiking Tour by Private Transfer Service : $98
- Private One-Way Transfer Between Beijing Railway Station and Hotel: $30
- Private Transfer to Daxing International Airport : $35
- 1 Day Pass for Universal Beijing and Private Transfer Package: $265
- 1-Day Bejing Layover Tour:Mutianyu Great Wall,Forbidden City & Airport Transfers: $250
- 1-Way Private Transfer between Beijing Airport and City Hotels: $35
- 4-Hour Huanghuacheng Great Wall Sunset Tour with Airport Transfer: $160
- 5 Hours Round Trip Transfer Service to Mutianyu Great Wall: $70
- Acrobatic Show at Red Theater With Private Transfer: $80
- Acrobatics Show with Private Driver Service and Hotel Round Transfer: $75
- Airport Layover Transfer Service to Mutianyu Great Wall & City Sightseeing : $115
- Arrival Private Transfer: Capital Airport PEK to Beijing in Business Car: $69
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:
- Alberta Transfer: Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Calgary: $60
- Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Luxury Van: $123
- Banff To Calgary Airport - Private Transfer: $346
- Banff/Canmore to Calgary or YYC Airport Private Transfer: $205
- Banff: Private Transfer to Calgary Airport or Calgary: $107
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $237
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise - Arrival Private Transfer: $271
- Calgary Airport Transfer to/from Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise: $42
- Calgary Airport to Canmore | Private Transfer: $173
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Drumheller: $208
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Edmonton: $485
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Fernie, BC: $499
Is it cheaper to fly into Beijing or Calgary?
Prices for flights to both Calgary and Beijing 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 dayBeijing $33Calgary $51
Typical Food Prices in Beijing
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beijing:
-
Popcorn$0.82
-
Hot Pot Dinner$6.85
-
Dumpling Breakfast for Two$2.74
-
Watermelon$1.92
-
Peking Duck Dinner for 2$16
-
Two Popsicles$0.82
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Beijing
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Beijing.
- Beijing Hutong Food Tour: 3-hour,4 Hutongs & 4 Hidden Restaurants: $5.00
- Online Cooking Class Orange Chicken by Sunflower Li: $20
- Online Cooking Class Handmade Noodles by Sunflower Li: $20
- Online Cooking Class Kungpao Chicken: $20
- Beijing Acrobatic Show Tickets w/ Optional Dinner or Transfer: $48
- 3.5-Hour Walking Food Tour: A Bite of History at Beijing Niujie Street: $49
- Temple of Heaven Private Tour w/Option Show &Dinner: $51
- Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
- Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
- China's Favourite Street Food Cooking Workshop: $55
- Old Beijing Dinner Tour: $75
- Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour with Beer and Tastings: $75
Typical Food Prices in Calgary
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:
-
Bread, Chips, Cheese$7.74
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Calgary.
- Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $77
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $122
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $125
Entertainment
-
Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Beijing $24Calgary $15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Beijing
Here are a few typical costs in Beijing for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
-
Entry to Summer Palace for Two$8.22
-
Two Opera Tickets$58
-
Temple of Heaven Park Entrance (for 2)$9.59
-
Forbidden City (for 2)$16
-
Forbidden City Tickets$16
-
Audio Guides at Forbidden City$11
Tours and Activities in Beijing
Here are a few actual costs in Beijing for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- TIAN AN MEN SQUARE AND FORBIDDEN CITY (guided tour): $0.14
- Shanghai: Happy Valley Theme Park Entry Ticket: $0.14
- Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square Walking Tour: $1.42
- Tiananmen Square Registration Service(Ticket): $3.85
- Tiananmen Square Ticket Fast and Smooth: $4.82
- Tiananmen Square entry ticket pre-booking.: $4.90
- Tiananmen Square - Registration Ticket: $5.00
- Agent ticket booking service: Temple of heaven: $5.00
- Summer Palace Beijing Free Walking Tour: $5.00
- Beijing Hutongs Free Walking Tour : $5.00
- Temple of Heaven Free Walking Tour: $5.00
- Beijing City Guided Walking Tour | China's 1st and Best Rated: $5.00
Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary
Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
-
Stampede Admission (for 2)$21
Tours and Activities in Calgary
Here are a few actual costs in Calgary for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $4.85
- Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 3-Hour: $4.85
- Bow River Trail Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $4.85
- Rocky Mountains: Smartphone Driving and Walking Audio Tours: $14
- Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Calgary with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
- Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour: $20
- Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $23
- Classic Mural Tour of Calgary: $35
- Sheep & Spirits: Diamond Valley Hiking Experience: $46
- 3-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour: $47
- Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $50
- 3.5-Hour Bus City Tour with Gasoline Alley Museum: $52
Alcohol
-
Alcohol Drinks for one dayBeijing $11Calgary $10
Sample the Local Flavors in Beijing
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Beijing:
- Beijing Brewery Bike Tour: $99
- Evening Food Private Tour with Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing: $110
- Private Tour-Drum Tower, Hutong Food Taste and Local Brewery Beer: $150
- 5-Hour Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour from Beijing: $178
- Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour and Mutianyu Great Wall Visit: $238
Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary
Also in Calgary, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Calgary Brewery and Wine Tours at Award Winning Venues: $79
- Calgary Brewery Tour: $85
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Calgary, we can see that Calgary is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Calgary is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Calgary would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Calgary than you might in Beijing.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Beijing Expensive? and Is Calgary Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Beijing or Calgary?
Beijing has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Calgary. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Calgary, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.