A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cincinnati vs. Pittsburgh for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Pittsburgh? 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.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a authentic, hard-working, and blue collar city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a authentic, under-rated, and industrial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cincinnati and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pittsburgh. Although Cincinnati and Pittsburgh are roughly the same size, Pittsburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cincinnati is popular for its breweries and down-to-earth personality. Pittsburgh is popular for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood". It is also home to Mount Washington.

How is Cincinnati different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Cincinnati and Pittsburgh.

Cincinnati offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

Many visitors head to Pittsburgh specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.


Is the Food Better in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Pittsburgh. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Is Cincinnati or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Pittsburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

If you're looking for night time activities Cincinnati has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

Is the Shopping Better in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pittsburgh and Cincinnati.

Cincinnati offers some nice shopping areas. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.

Pittsburgh has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.


Is Cincinnati or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cincinnati or Pittsburgh.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cincinnati. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

Pittsburgh offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Cincinnati or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

Most people don't think of either Cincinnati or Pittsburgh as a couple's destination.

Most people don't think of Cincinnati as a couple's destination. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.

Pittsburgh is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Cincinnati or Pittsburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

Cincinnati is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.


Is Cincinnati or Pittsburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Cincinnati and Pittsburgh.

You'll find some public transit in Cincinnati, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

While Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Is Cincinnati or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Cincinnati
Pittsburgh

Cincinnati is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Cincinnati is a very walkable destination. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Cincinnati Worth Visiting? and Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Cincinnati?

How long in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cincinnati and Pittsburgh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pittsburgh than in Cincinnati. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cincinnati, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pittsburgh.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cincinnati than Pittsburgh 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 Cincinnati.


  • How many days in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cincinnati 1-2 
    Pittsburgh 2-3

One day in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

With museums and nightlife around the blue collar city of Cincinnati, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cincinnati, one day is sufficent for most.

With museums and nightlife around the authentic city of Pittsburgh, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Cincinnati, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Pittsburgh, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

Cincinnati, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Pittsburgh, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

Cincinnati is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Pittsburgh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Cincinnati?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cincinnati is $183, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Cincinnati and Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cincinnati $102
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cincinnati $204
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Cincinnati and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Cincinnati or Pittsburgh? 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 Cincinnati


Hotels in Pittsburgh


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: Cincinnati Hotel Prices and Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cincinnati $25
    Pittsburgh $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cincinnati

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cincinnati:

  • Cincinnati to Cincinnati Airport (CVG) - Departure Private Transfer: $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh and Cincinnati 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
    Cincinnati $55
    Pittsburgh $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cincinnati

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cincinnati.

  • Ohio River Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $61
  • Mainstrasse Village Food Tour in Covington KY: $79
  • Cincinnati Court Street Food Tour with Vegan Options: $85
  • Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour With Findlay Market : $85
  • Cincinnati Walking Sightseeing Tour with Pizza and Ice-cream: $120

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cincinnati $26
    Pittsburgh $38

Tours and Activities in Cincinnati

Here are a few actual costs in Cincinnati for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Cincinnati Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Haunted Cincinnati Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour: $36
  • Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery: $20
  • 1919: The year that changed baseball tour: $31
  • Brewers & Barons Trail Tour: $45
  • Built on Beer Tour: $45
  • Cellars and Saloons Sunday Brunch Tour in Cincinnati: $75
  • Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour: $69
  • Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour: $59
  • Cincinnati Ethnic Food and Culture Tour in Over the Rhine: $85
  • Cincinnati Reds Baseball Game Ticket at Great American Ballpark: $19
  • Cincinnati Streetcar Tour: $89

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Pittsburgh to Logstown Settler's History: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.32
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Sinister Shadows of Steel City Ghost Tour: $24
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh: $25
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Evening Ghost Tour: $28
  • Downtown History and Architecture Tour: $29
  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour: $30
  • Discover Oakland Tour: $30
  • Public Art Walking Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cincinnati $11
    Pittsburgh $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Cincinnati

Also in Cincinnati, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cincinnati Bar Hunt: Cin-sational Cincinnati Bar Crawl: $12
  • Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting: $49
  • Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop: $64
  • Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour: $68

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $40
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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


Which is Bigger, Cincinnati or Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Cincinnati. When comparing the sizes of Cincinnati and Pittsburgh, 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.