A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Galveston or Berkeley?

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 Galveston and Berkeley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Galveston and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Galveston or Berkeley?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Galveston than Berkeley. While Berkeley is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Berkeley is known for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also home to Pleasure Pier. Berkeley is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Galveston different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Galveston or Berkeley?

Galveston
Berkeley

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Galveston and Berkeley.

Many visitors head to Galveston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.


Is the Food Better in Galveston or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galveston
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Berkeley has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Galveston or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Berkeley

The vibe at night is excellent in both Galveston and Berkeley.

Many people head to Galveston for the nightlife scene. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

Berkeley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Galveston or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Berkeley

Galveston is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.


Is Galveston or Berkeley Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Berkeley

Galveston is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Galveston offers a nice historic old town area. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Berkeley?

Galveston
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Berkeley is well-known for its shopping. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Galveston or Berkeley Better for Families?

Galveston
Berkeley

Galveston is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Galveston is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Berkeley is a family-friendly town. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Galveston or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Galveston
Berkeley

Galveston is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Galveston is a very popular place to visit for couples. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Galveston or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galveston
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Galveston or Berkeley Better for Students?

Galveston
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

Berkeley is very popular with students. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Galveston is not popular with students.


Is Galveston or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Galveston
Berkeley

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Berkeley is top-notch. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is generally limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Is Galveston or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Galveston
Berkeley

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable town. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

For even more information, also check out Is Galveston Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Galveston and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Galveston. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Galveston 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Galveston or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Galveston or Berkeley?

The town of Galveston offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Berkeley. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Galveston or Berkeley?

Galveston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Galveston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Berkeley. 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.

Five days in Galveston or Berkeley?

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quirky city of Berkeley. 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.

A week in Galveston or Berkeley?

Galveston is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Berkeley 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Galveston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $183, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 Galveston and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Berkeley? 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 Galveston


Hotels in Berkeley


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: Galveston Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $167
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $167
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $192
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $192

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $126
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Galveston 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
    Galveston $52
    Berkeley $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

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

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

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

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour on the Galveston Strand: $6.75
  • Luggage Storage in Cruise Terminal: $8.65
  • Unique Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Experience in League City: $10
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $15
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $15
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $20
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • The Ghosts of Galveston Guided Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $16
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Berkeley, 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 Galveston or Berkeley?

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 Galveston or Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Galveston during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Galveston is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galveston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Berkeley. Many travelers come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 71°F (22°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In October, Galveston usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Berkeley. Many visitors come to Galveston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Galveston is a little warmer than Berkeley in the winter. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Galveston usually gets less rain in January than Berkeley. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Galveston for the beaches and the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Galveston is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galveston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Berkeley averages at about 58°F (14°C).

In April, Galveston usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Galveston

Galveston Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)