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

Should you visit Boston or Berkeley?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boston and Berkeley. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Berkeley?

You'll generally find more things to do in Boston than Berkeley. Boston is bigger than Berkeley, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Berkeley is more popular for its shopping. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Boston different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Boston 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 Boston on the map. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Boston or Berkeley Better for Theater?

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

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Berkeley is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Berkeley can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Berkeley has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Boston or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Boston and Berkeley.

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Boston or Berkeley Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Berkeley is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Berkeley is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Boston is a moderate city for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Berkeley Better for its Old Town?

Boston is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Boston is one of the most recognized in the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Berkeley?

Berkeley is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Boston or Berkeley Better for Christmas?

Boston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Berkeley does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Berkeley does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Berkeley Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Boston has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Berkeley does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Berkeley Better for Families?

Boston 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.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Boston or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Boston and Berkeley both notable destinations for a couple.

Boston is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Berkeley makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Boston or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Berkeley. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Boston or Berkeley Better for Students?

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

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

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

Both Boston and Berkeley offer world-class public transit options.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Berkeley has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Is Boston or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Boston and Berkeley both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Boston?

How long in Boston or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Berkeley. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

One day in Boston or Berkeley?

Boston is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

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.

A weekend in Boston or Berkeley?

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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.

Five days in Boston or Berkeley?

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

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.

A week in Boston or Berkeley?

Boston is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Berkeley, we can see that Boston 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Boston Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Boston or Berkeley?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Berkeley, 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 Boston or Berkeley?

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 Boston or Berkeley in the Summer?

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

In July, Boston is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 73°F (23°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Boston usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Boston or Berkeley in the Autumn?

Both Berkeley and Boston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Boston is cooler than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Berkeley. The winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

The weather in Boston can be very cold. In the winter, Boston is much colder than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boston in January average around 29°F (-2°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Boston usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Boston or Berkeley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boston as well as Berkeley. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the natural beauty.

In April, Boston is generally much colder than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 48°F (9°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Boston