A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. Anchorage for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Belfast or Anchorage?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Anchorage, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Belfast

Belfast is a affordable, under-rated, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and shopping.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a cultural, artsy, and nature-oriented city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Belfast and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Belfast or Anchorage?

Both Anchorage and Belfast have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Belfast is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Anchorage is known for its museums, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Anchorage is more touristy than Belfast and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Belfast is popular for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Belfast different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Belfast or Anchorage?

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Anchorage is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Belfast or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Anchorage offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Belfast is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Belfast or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Anchorage?

Both Belfast and Anchorage are good shopping destinations.

Belfast is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Belfast or Anchorage Better for Families?

Belfast and Anchorage are both good destinations for the whole family.

Belfast is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Anchorage is a family-friendly city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Belfast or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Anchorage is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Anchorage Better for Students?

Belfast is a city with good options for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Belfast is a good city to visit for students. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

Is Belfast or Anchorage Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Belfast is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Belfast or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Belfast is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Belfast is somewhat walkable.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Belfast Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Belfast and Anchorage. In our opinion, Anchorage has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Anchorage than Belfast. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Anchorage than Belfast 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 Anchorage.

One day in Belfast or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the city of Belfast. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Belfast has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Anchorage, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Belfast or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Belfast. 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.

In Anchorage, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the affordable city of Belfast. 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.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Belfast or Anchorage?

Belfast 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Anchorage. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Belfast and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage 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. Even though Belfast is in Europe and Anchorage is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Belfast Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Belfast or Anchorage?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Belfast and Anchorage, 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 Belfast or Anchorage?

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 Belfast or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Belfast is around the same temperature as Anchorage in the summer. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Belfast or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Belfast during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Belfast for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Belfast is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Belfast in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Anchorage averages at about 35°F (2°C).

In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Anchorage. Many visitors come to Belfast in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during winter. Belfast can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Belfast is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 4°C (39°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Belfast or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Anchorage. Most visitors come to Belfast for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Belfast is much warmer than Anchorage in the spring. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. In the spring, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Belfast