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

Should you visit Berkeley or Breckenridge?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berkeley or Breckenridge, 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.

Berkeley

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

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a charming, breathtaking, and adventurous ski resort. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Berkeley and Breckenridge: 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 for students
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Berkeley or Breckenridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Berkeley and Breckenridge are both popular with visitors, Breckenridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Breckenridge is more popular for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Berkeley is known for its museums & sights, food, and nightlife. Berkeley is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Breckenridge is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also home to The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Berkeley different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is renowned for snow skiing. However, Berkeley is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Breckenridge is among the best in the world. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Berkeley is not a skiing destination.


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

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Berkeley is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Berkeley or Breckenridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Berkeley is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Berkeley. 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.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Berkeley is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

Berkeley offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.


Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge offers a nice historic old town area. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Breckenridge has hiking trails worth exploring. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Breckenridge?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Both Berkeley and Breckenridge are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Berkeley does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge is a fantastic destination at Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Berkeley does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Berkeley does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Berkeley does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Breckenridge 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.

Breckenridge is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

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 Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Breckenridge is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. 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 Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Berkeley is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit 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.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.


Is Berkeley or Breckenridge Better for Students?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Berkeley is a well-known place for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Breckenridge is not popular with students.

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

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Berkeley or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Berkeley
Breckenridge

Berkeley and Breckenridge both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Breckenridge. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.


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

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Breckenridge?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Breckenridge 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 Berkeley or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berkeley 2-3 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Berkeley or Breckenridge?

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this diverse city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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.

A weekend in Berkeley or Breckenridge?

Berkeley is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Breckenridge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Berkeley or Breckenridge?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quirky destination of Berkeley. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Breckenridge is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Breckenridge, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Berkeley or Breckenridge?

Berkeley is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Breckenridge has to offer. This ski resort offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Berkeley?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Berkeley is $190, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $200. 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 Berkeley and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berkeley $131
    Breckenridge $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berkeley $262
    Breckenridge $212
Compare Hotels in Berkeley and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Berkeley or Breckenridge? 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 Berkeley


Hotels in Breckenridge


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: Berkeley Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Breckenridge $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $45
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $192
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $200
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $203
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $203
  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $203

Is it cheaper to fly into Berkeley or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $36
    Breckenridge $61
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.

  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Breckenridge $94

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: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $16
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $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
  • Small Group East Bay Beer Tour: $105
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

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

  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Self-Guided Snow Shoe Tours: $17
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Breckenridge Guided Bike Tour: $75
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Rock Climb Adventure: $204

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berkeley $13
    Breckenridge $7.79

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

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

  • Ridden Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85


When comparing the travel costs between Berkeley and Breckenridge, we can see that Breckenridge 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 Berkeley Expensive? and Is Breckenridge Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Berkeley or Breckenridge?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Berkeley and Breckenridge, 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.