A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Columbus vs. San Diego for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Columbus or San Diego?

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

Should I visit Columbus or San Diego? 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.

Columbus

Columbus is a down-to-earth, authentic, and friendly city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Columbus and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbus or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Columbus. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Columbus is famous for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Columbus different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Columbus or San Diego?

San Diego is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Columbus offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History Center.

Is the Food Better in Columbus or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Diego is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around San Diego. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbus. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

San Diego has a large number of nightlife venues. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Columbus has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for live music. However, Columbus is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Columbus is not a live music destination.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Columbus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Columbus is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Columbus is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbus or San Diego?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Columbus and San Diego.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbus. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

San Diego offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Columbus is a very kid-friendly city. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is a world-class destination for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Columbus is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there is a hostel in town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Columbus is not popular with students.

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Columbus is not popular with students.

Is Columbus or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Columbus and San Diego.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Columbus or San Diego a more walkable city?

Columbus and San Diego are nice when it comes to walkability.

Columbus is somewhat walkable. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Columbus Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Columbus?

How long in Columbus or San Diego?

In either Columbus or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Columbus because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Columbus, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Columbus 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 San Diego.

One day in Columbus or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Columbus. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbus has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The coastal city of San Diego offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Columbus or San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Columbus. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Columbus or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the authentic city of Columbus. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Columbus or San Diego?

Columbus is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Columbus or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 66% larger than the population of Columbus. When comparing the sizes of Columbus and San Diego, 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 Columbus or San Diego?

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 Columbus or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbus and San Diego. Most visitors come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Columbus is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Columbus in July average around 77°F (25°C), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Columbus, it's very sunny this time of the year. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during summer. Columbus gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

Columbus gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Columbus usually receives more rain than San Diego. Columbus gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Columbus or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Columbus as well as San Diego. The autumn months attract visitors to Columbus because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In October, Columbus is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Columbus average around 57°F (14°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the autumn, Columbus often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Columbus gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbus or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Columbus are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbus this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Columbus in the winter. Columbus is much colder than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Columbus averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Columbus usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Columbus gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Columbus usually receives more rain than San Diego. Columbus gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Columbus or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Columbus during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Columbus is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Columbus in April average around 54°F (12°C), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Columbus often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Columbus gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Columbus usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Columbus gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Columbus