A Travel Price Comparison for Canada Kamloops vs. Whistler for Skiing, Hiking, Families, and Food

Should you visit Kamloops or Whistler?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kamloops and Whistler can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and laid-back city. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Kamloops travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a outdoorsy, charming, and adventurous village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Whistler travel costs.

Kamloops and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kamloops or Whistler?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Whistler. Although Kamloops and Whistler are popular destinations, Whistler has more sights and attractions for tourists. Whistler is more touristy than Kamloops and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Cloudraker Skybridge. Kamloops is famous for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Kamloops different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kamloops or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for skiing and snowboarding. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for winter skiing.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Whistler. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Kamloops is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kamloops or Whistler?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Kamloops and Whistler.

While most people don't head to Kamloops specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Whistler offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Is the Food Better in Kamloops or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Whistler has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Kamloops or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Whistler has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

Is Kamloops or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops is not a resort destination.

In Whistler, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Kamloops or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Whistler visitors will find world-class hiking trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Kamloops offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Is the Shopping Better in Kamloops or Whistler?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Kamloops and Whistler.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kamloops. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Many visitors go to Whistler to go shopping. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Kamloops or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kamloops or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is an extremely popular village to visit for families. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Kamloops is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

Is Kamloops or Whistler Better for Couples?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Kamloops is a good city for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Kamloops or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kamloops is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's often overlooked by backpackers, but there is a hostel in town.

Is Kamloops or Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Kamloops and Whistler.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Kamloops or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Whistler is a very walkable village. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Kamloops Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Kamloops?

How long in Kamloops or Whistler?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler than Kamloops 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 Whistler.

One day in Kamloops or Whistler?

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

The beautiful village of Whistler offers nightlife and food. 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 Kamloops or Whistler?

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

Whistler is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Kamloops or Whistler?

Kamloops 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.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Whistler, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Kamloops or Whistler?

Kamloops 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 city offers something for everyone.

Whistler is a great place to explore. 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 village offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Kamloops or Whistler?

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Kamloops and Whistler, 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 Kamloops or Whistler?

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 Kamloops or Whistler in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kamloops as well as Whistler. Most visitors come to Kamloops for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Whistler because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kamloops is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Kamloops average around 23°C (73°F), and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Kamloops usually gets less rain in July than Whistler. Kamloops gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kamloops or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Kamloops are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

Kamloops is around the same temperature as Whistler in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kamloops averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In October, Kamloops usually receives less rain than Whistler. Kamloops gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kamloops or Whistler in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Whistler. It's quite cold in Kamloops in the winter. In the winter, Kamloops is much colder than Whistler. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kamloops in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Whistler averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kamloops usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Kamloops gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kamloops or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kamloops and Whistler. Furthermore, many visitors come to Whistler in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Kamloops is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Kamloops average around 12°C (53°F), and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Kamloops usually receives less rain than Whistler. Kamloops gets 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Kamloops