A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Breckenridge vs. Albuquerque for Old Town, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Albuquerque? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a adventurous, scenic, and nature-filled ski resort. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a cosmopolitan, cultural, and outdoorsy town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Breckenridge and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Breckenridge and Albuquerque are popular destinations, Breckenridge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Breckenridge is very popular for its skiing, resorts, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Albuquerque attracts visitors for its museums, food, and historical sights. Breckenridge is more touristy than Albuquerque and is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also well known for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort. Albuquerque is famous for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Breckenridge different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Breckenridge is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Albuquerque is not a skiing destination.

Breckenridge is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around 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.

Albuquerque is not a skiing destination.


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

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

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

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

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 Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Both Breckenridge and Albuquerque are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.


Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Breckenridge is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

Breckenridge has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Albuquerque is not a resort destination.

Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Albuquerque is revered around the world. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

Breckenridge has an old town worth visiting. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

If you're looking to go hiking, Breckenridge and Albuquerque both have nice trails.

Breckenridge is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Albuquerque. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.


Is the Shopping Better in Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Both Breckenridge and Albuquerque are superb shopping destinations.

Breckenridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Albuquerque. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Breckenridge is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Albuquerque does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Breckenridge. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Albuquerque does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Breckenridge is a great ski resort for visiting Christmas markets. However, Albuquerque does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to Breckenridge to see its Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Albuquerque does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Breckenridge is a great ski resort for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Breckenridge is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

With fun activities for couples, both Breckenridge and Albuquerque make for a superb place to visit.

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.

Albuquerque makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Breckenridge is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.


Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a popular place for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

Albuquerque is a good town to visit for students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Breckenridge is not popular with students.

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

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Both Breckenridge and Albuquerque offer reasonable public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Is Breckenridge or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Albuquerque

Breckenridge is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

Breckenridge is a very easy ski resort to get around on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.


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

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either Breckenridge or Albuquerque. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Breckenridge due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Breckenridge, and 2-4 days is enough time in Albuquerque.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge than Albuquerque 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 Breckenridge.


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Albuquerque? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Albuquerque 2-4

One day in Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. Most people visit for the skiing. 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.

In Albuquerque, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cosmopolitan town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This ski resort offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Albuquerque is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Five days in Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cosmopolitan destination of Albuquerque. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.


A week in Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this ski resort.

Albuquerque is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Albuquerque or Breckenridge?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Breckenridge is $200, while the average daily cost in Albuquerque is $135. 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 Breckenridge and Albuquerque in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $106
    Albuquerque $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $212
    Albuquerque $138
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Albuquerque

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge or Albuquerque? 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 Breckenridge


Hotels in Albuquerque


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: Breckenridge Hotel Prices and Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $19
    Albuquerque $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $195
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $192
  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $184

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

Also for Albuquerque, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $39
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $78
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Private Transfer: $125
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Pagosa Springs Private Transfer: $174
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Round-Trip Transfer: $250

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

Prices for flights to both Albuquerque and Breckenridge 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
    Breckenridge $61
    Albuquerque $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

For Albuquerque, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $94
    Albuquerque $24

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

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

  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $33
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $32
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $67
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Self-Guided Snow Shoe Tours: $17
  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $7.99

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Albuquerque.

  • Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour by App: $6.50
  • Historic Old Town Albuquerque smart phone App/Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Albuquerque by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Albuquerque by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • The Turquoise Museum Curator's Tour: $20
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Old Town Hauntings of the West Ghost Tour: $26
  • The Ghost Tour of Old Town - New Mexico's oldest Ghost Walk - Since 2001: $35
  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • ABQ City Guided History Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $7.79
    Albuquerque $20

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

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


Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge and Albuquerque, 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.