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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Toronto. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a luxury, high energy, and scenic coastal city. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Toronto travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toronto than Fort Lauderdale, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Toronto is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Fort Lauderdale is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Toronto and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Toronto is popular for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also home to the CN Tower.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

Toronto is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Toronto that are not to be missed. 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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Toronto offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Fort Lauderdale makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Toronto has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Toronto is a world class party destination. 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.

The nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has something for everybody. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Toronto Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Toronto is not a resort destination.

Fort Lauderdale is a world class resort vacation destination. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Toronto is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Toronto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its beaches. However, Toronto is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale is considered to be a world-class beach destination. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Toronto is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

Toronto is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Toronto is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Toronto More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Toronto Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Toronto are very good family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Toronto is very family-friendly. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Toronto Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for romance. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toronto is a great destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is a must-visit destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Toronto is a very popular place to visit for students. 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

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

Toronto is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Toronto has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Toronto a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale and Toronto both are very good when exploring on foot.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Toronto is a very walkable coastal city. 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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Toronto has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Toronto than Fort Lauderdale. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toronto than Fort Lauderdale 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.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Toronto is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Toronto is a big city with plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Toronto is a big city with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Toronto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale 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.

When is the best time to visit Fort Lauderdale or Toronto?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Toronto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Toronto. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Toronto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Toronto in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toronto. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the summer. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Toronto. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Toronto in the Autumn?

Both Toronto and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Toronto averages at about 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Toronto. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Toronto in the Winter?

Both Toronto and Fort Lauderdale during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Toronto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Toronto. In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Toronto. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Toronto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Toronto. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Toronto in the spring for the activities around the city.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Toronto in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Toronto. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Fort Lauderdale