A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Breckenridge for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Destin or Breckenridge?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Breckenridge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nature-filled, charming, and breathtaking ski resort. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Destin and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Destin or Breckenridge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Destin and Breckenridge are popular destinations, Breckenridge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Breckenridge is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Destin attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Destin is famous for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Breckenridge is famous 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.

How is Destin different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is terrific for snow skiing. However, Destin is not a skiing destination.

Breckenridge is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

Destin is not a skiing destination.


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

Destin
Breckenridge

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Destin and Breckenridge.

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Breckenridge has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Destin or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and 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.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Destin
Breckenridge

Destin is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its luxury resorts.

Destin is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. 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.


Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

Destin
Breckenridge

Destin is a well-known place for the beache. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Destin is considered a top beach destination. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for its historic old town. However, Destin does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Breckenridge to see the historical old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Destin does not have a historic old town.

Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting 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.

Destin is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Breckenridge?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is notable for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Breckenridge is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Destin does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge is a fantastic destination at Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Destin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Destin 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.

Destin does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Destin
Breckenridge

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Breckenridge.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Breckenridge is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Is Destin or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a moderate ski resort for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Destin
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is terrific for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

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

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Destin?

How long in Destin or Breckenridge?

Both Destin and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Breckenridge has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Breckenridge than Destin. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge than Destin 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 Destin or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Destin or Breckenridge?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful beach town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Destin or Breckenridge?

Destin is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Breckenridge?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Breckenridge?

Destin is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Destin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $192, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $200. 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 Destin and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Breckenridge $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Breckenridge $212
Compare Hotels in Destin and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Breckenridge? 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 Destin


Hotels in Breckenridge


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: Destin Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Breckenridge $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Destin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Destin:

  • Destin, FL to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $71

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $185
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $193
  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $197
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $197

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Destin 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
    Destin $51
    Breckenridge $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

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

  • 3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Mother's Day Sunset Dinner Cruise: SOLARIS Yacht Miramar Beach FL: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Breckenridge $94
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Destin are as follows:


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

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

  • Flippers Adventures Dolphin Cruise: $25
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises: $32
  • Spectacular Sunset Cruise: $33
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Guided Sunset Cruise Up to 22 Passengers in Florida: $35
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach : $35
  • Chakras Sound Bath Meditation Experience in Destin: $35
  • Family Friendly Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour: $40
  • Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $40
  • Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise: $40
  • Fort Walton Beach: Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40
  • Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Breckenridge $7.79

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


Which is Bigger, Destin or Breckenridge?

Destin has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Breckenridge, 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.