A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Breckenridge vs. Toronto for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Breckenridge or Toronto?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Toronto? 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 breathtaking, adventurous, and scenic ski resort. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food.

Toronto

Toronto is a diverse, vibrant, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Breckenridge and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • 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
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
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
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Toronto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toronto. Although Breckenridge and Toronto are popular destinations, Toronto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Toronto is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Breckenridge attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Breckenridge is famous for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Toronto is famous for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also well known for the CN Tower.

How is Breckenridge different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Breckenridge is terrific for skiing and snowboarding. However, Toronto is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Breckenridge. 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.

Toronto is not a skiing destination.


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

Breckenridge
Toronto

Toronto is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Toronto are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Breckenridge
Toronto

Toronto 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 Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

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 Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Toronto is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Toronto just to party. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

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 Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a resort destination.

Is Breckenridge or Toronto Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its historic old town. However, Toronto does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge is a good destination for visiting its old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Toronto does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its hiking trails. However, Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Breckenridge. 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.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Breckenridge or Toronto?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Toronto is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Toronto make it a world-class shopping destination. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Is Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Breckenridge is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Toronto does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Toronto does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Breckenridge is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Toronto does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge has plenty of Christmas markets during the holiday season. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Toronto does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Breckenridge or Toronto.

Breckenridge is a very kid-friendly ski resort. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toronto. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Toronto

With fun activities for couples, both Breckenridge and Toronto make for a excellent 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.

Toronto makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Toronto 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.

Toronto is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

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 Breckenridge or Toronto Better for Students?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Toronto is a world-class destination for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Toronto. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Breckenridge is not popular with students.

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

Breckenridge
Toronto

Toronto 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 Toronto can get you around easily. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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

Is Breckenridge or Toronto a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Toronto

Breckenridge is terrific for its walkability. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Toronto is a very walkable ski resort. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.


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

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Toronto?

Both Breckenridge and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Breckenridge than Toronto. 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 Toronto. 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 Toronto 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 Toronto.


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Toronto? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Toronto 3-7

One day in Breckenridge or Toronto?

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This ski resort offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Toronto?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Toronto is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Breckenridge or Toronto?

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Breckenridge has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Each neighborhood in Toronto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A week in Breckenridge or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Toronto is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Toronto, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Toronto 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 Toronto is $206. 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 Toronto in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $106
    Toronto $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $212
    Toronto $174
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Toronto

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge or Toronto? 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 Toronto


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 Toronto Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $19
    Toronto $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Toronto

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Toronto are as follows:


  • Airport Shuttle
    $27
  • Train: 2 Day Passes
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toronto

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

  • Convenient bus transfer between Hamilton Airport and Toronto: $3.67
  • Express Train Transfer to/from Pearson Airport: $9.08
  • One Way: from/to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) - Private Transfer: $38
  • Transfer Toronto Hotels to Toronto Pearson Airport YYZ: $42
  • Pearson Airport Private Hotel Transfer: $42
  • Private Transfer Toronto Pearson Airport To Toronto Hotels/Airbnb: $43
  • Transfer from Toronto City Center to Pearson Airport(YYZ): $50
  • Private Transfer Toronto Airport (YYZ) - City Center: $50
  • Departure Private Transfer Toronto City to Toronto Airport YYZ by Business Car: $59
  • Private Airport Transfer Pearson Airport to or from Toronto: $63
  • One-Way Private Airport Transfer from Toronto to Pearson Airport: $63
  • Toronto to Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Toronto?

Prices for flights to both Toronto 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
    Toronto $66

Typical Food Prices in Toronto

For Toronto, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch at St. Lawrence Market for Two
    $23
  • Dinner at Mill Street Brewery (for 2)
    $57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toronto

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

  • Premium Harbor Cruise with Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner: $50
  • Kensington Market 'Taste the World' Food Tour: $66
  • Toronto Premier Dinner Cruise on Odyssey in Toronto Harbour: $74
  • Toronto Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $75
  • 3–Hour Secret Food Tour: $76
  • Taste of the Continents: International Food Tour : $83
  • Kensington Market International Food Tour: $95
  • Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour with Optional Boat & Dinner: $112
  • Niagara Falls Evening Tour with Boat, Dinner & Illumination Tower: $112
  • Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour With Boat Cruise & Dinner (optional): $157
  • Toronto Food Tour with Local Foodie, Personalized & Private: $159
  • Food tour on Island Lake, Ontario from Toronto: $220

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $94
    Toronto $32

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 Stargazing Tour: $59
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Backcountry Ski Tour: $303
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Rock Climb Adventure: $204
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Ridden Fall Foliage Breckenridge Guided Bike Tour: $75

Typical Entertainment Prices in Toronto

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Toronto's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Gallery of Ontario for Two
    $16
  • CN Tower at night for Two
    $36
  • Harbour Dinner Cruise
    $27
  • Bata Shoe Museum (2)
    $7.36

Tours and Activities in Toronto

For Toronto, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Explore Niagara Falls with bus ticket from/to Toronto: $3.67
  • Toronto Tips-Based Walking Tour | 3-Hour: $4.00
  • Downtown Toronto Walking Tour: $4.52
  • Graffiti in Toronto Walking Tour: $4.52
  • Between Huntsville and Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.14
  • 3-hour City Highlights Tour: $5.15
  • Toronto's Waterfront: Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.24
  • Explore Canada's Metropolis with Walking Tours Through Toronto: $6.77
  • Toronto Greatest Hits: A Self-Guided Audio Tour : $6.99
  • Kensington Market, Chinatown and the Art Gallery of Ontario: A Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Bata Shoe Museum Entrance Ticket: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Toronto by 3Quest Challenge: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $7.79
    Toronto $23

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Toronto

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toronto:

  • Toronto Distillery District: Finest Whisky Quest Experience: $5.86
  • The Distillery District Film Tour: $17
  • Distillery District Historic Walking Tour: $17
  • Toronto Distillery District Walking Tour: $18
  • Corktown and Distillery District Tour: $27
  • Short Distillery District Segway Tour: $36
  • 30-Minute Distillery District Segway Tour in Toronto: $37
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $38
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $39
  • Distillery District Breakfast Walking Tour: $41
  • The Distillery District Segway Ghost Tour: $41
  • Evening Distillery District Segway Ghost Tour: $44


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


Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 1620 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge and Toronto, 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.