A Travel Price Comparison for California Berkeley vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Berkeley or Los Angeles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berkeley or Los Angeles, 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 diverse, quirky, and progressive city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling, energetic, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Berkeley and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berkeley or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Berkeley. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Berkeley attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Berkeley and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Berkeley is famous for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Berkeley different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Berkeley. 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.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is notable for its shows and theatre. However, Berkeley is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Berkeley is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Los Angeles is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Berkeley has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for its music scene. However, Berkeley is not a live music destination.

In Los Angeles you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Berkeley is not a live music destination.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is renowned for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

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

Known for its hiking, Los Angeles draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Los Angeles is a world class destination for shoppers. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles Better for Couples?

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

Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Berkeley and Los Angeles are great 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.

Los Angeles is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for students. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. 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.

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

Berkeley is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Berkeley has a great public transit system. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Berkeley or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Berkeley is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Los Angeles?

Both Berkeley and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Berkeley. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Berkeley, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Berkeley 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Berkeley or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the progressive city of Berkeley. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quirky destination of Berkeley. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Los Angeles?

The quirky city of Berkeley offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Berkeley. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Berkeley or Los Angeles?

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

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 Berkeley or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Berkeley during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Berkeley is cooler than Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Berkeley usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Berkeley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berkeley or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Berkeley and Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Berkeley in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Berkeley is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Berkeley in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In October, Berkeley usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Berkeley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Berkeley or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Berkeley as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In January, Berkeley is generally cooler than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 50°F (10°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Berkeley usually gets more rain in January than Los Angeles. Berkeley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berkeley or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Berkeley are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

Berkeley is cooler than Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Berkeley usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Berkeley gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Berkeley