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

Should you visit Berkeley or Juneau?

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

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

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Berkeley and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Berkeley or Juneau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Berkeley and Juneau are both popular with visitors, Juneau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Juneau is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Berkeley is known for its nightlife. Berkeley is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Juneau is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier.

How is Berkeley different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Berkeley
Juneau

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Berkeley or Juneau.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Juneau. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.


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

Berkeley
Juneau

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Berkeley and Juneau.

Dining out in Berkeley is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Juneau. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Is Berkeley or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley
Juneau

Berkeley is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Berkeley or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Berkeley
Juneau

Juneau is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Juneau draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Juneau?

Berkeley
Juneau

Both Berkeley and Juneau 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 Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Is Berkeley or Juneau Better for Families?

Berkeley
Juneau

Juneau 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.

Juneau is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

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 Juneau Better for Couples?

Berkeley
Juneau

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

Juneau has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley
Juneau

Both Berkeley and Juneau are very good destinations for backpackers.

Berkeley is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Juneau is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Is Berkeley or Juneau Better for Students?

Berkeley
Juneau

Berkeley is a well-known place for students. However, Juneau 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.

Juneau is not popular with students.

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

Berkeley
Juneau

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Juneau is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Berkeley is top-notch. 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.


Is Berkeley or Juneau a more walkable city?

Berkeley
Juneau

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Juneau is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Berkeley and Juneau. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Berkeley than Juneau. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Berkeley or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Berkeley. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Juneau offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Juneau?

Berkeley is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Juneau, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Berkeley or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Juneau is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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.

A week in Berkeley or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Berkeley. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Juneau is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau 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 Juneau is $160. 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 Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berkeley $131
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berkeley $262
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Berkeley and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Berkeley or Juneau? 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 Juneau


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 Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Juneau $38

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: $43
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • 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: $127
  • 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 Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Juneau Airport (JNU): $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Berkeley or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau 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
    Juneau $49
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.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Juneau $17

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

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

  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $132
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $154
  • eBikes Alaska - Rainforest Adventure: $160
  • Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise with Local Guide: $177
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau Alaska: $189
  • Juneau Whale Watching Adventure: $189

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berkeley $13
    Juneau $16

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Berkeley and Juneau, we can see that Berkeley is more expensive. And not only is Juneau much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Juneau would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Juneau 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 Berkeley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Berkeley than you might in Juneau.

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


Which is Bigger, Berkeley or Juneau?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Berkeley and Juneau, 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 Berkeley or Juneau?

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 Berkeley or Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Berkeley are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Berkeley in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Berkeley is generally a little warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 63°F (17°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In July, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Juneau. Berkeley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Berkeley or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Berkeley during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Berkeley is much warmer than Juneau in the autumn. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Berkeley usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Berkeley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Berkeley or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Berkeley and Juneau. The winter months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the winter. In the winter, Berkeley is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the winter temperatures in Berkeley in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Juneau averages at about 24°F (-4°C).

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Juneau. Berkeley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Berkeley or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Berkeley as well as Juneau. The natural beauty are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Juneau for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In April, Berkeley is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 58°F (14°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Berkeley usually gets less rain in April than Juneau. Berkeley gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Berkeley

Berkeley Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)