A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Melbourne vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Melbourne or San Diego?

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

Should I visit Melbourne 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.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a progressive, livable, and friendly city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

San Diego

San Diego is a outdoorsy, idyllic, and fun-filled coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Melbourne and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or San Diego?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Diego than Melbourne. While Melbourne is larger than San Diego, San Diego has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Diego is better known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Melbourne is more popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities. San Diego is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo. Melbourne is well known for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population.

How is Melbourne different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Melbourne and San Diego.

Melbourne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

Many visitors head to San Diego specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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

Melbourne is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Melbourne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. 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.

Is Melbourne or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Melbourne and San Diego.

Melbourne has a large number of nightlife venues. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

San Diego is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Melbourne or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a live music destination.

Is Melbourne or San Diego Better for Resorts?

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

With a selection of resorts, San Diego makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Melbourne is not a resort destination.

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

San Diego is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Melbourne or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is very popular for the beache. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

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.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Is Melbourne or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or San Diego?

Melbourne is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Melbourne is well-known for its shopping. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. 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 Melbourne or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Is Melbourne or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

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

Melbourne and San Diego are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Melbourne. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

San Diego is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Melbourne or San Diego Better for Students?

Both Melbourne and San Diego are amazing destinations for students.

Many students frequent Melbourne. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

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

Melbourne is great for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Melbourne can get you around easily. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

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 Melbourne or San Diego a more walkable city?

Melbourne is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

Melbourne is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Melbourne Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or San Diego?

In either Melbourne or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, San Diego has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Diego than Melbourne. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

Families should spend more time in San Diego than Melbourne. 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 Melbourne. 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.

One day in Melbourne or San Diego?

People visit Melbourne because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Melbourne or San Diego?

People visit Melbourne because there is so much to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the hip destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Melbourne or San Diego?

People visit Melbourne because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the fun-filled coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Melbourne or San Diego?

Melbourne is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Melbourne and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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. Even though Melbourne is in Pacific and San Diego is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or San Diego?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Diego. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne 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 Melbourne or San Diego?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Melbourne is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but San Diego has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Melbourne or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Melbourne and San Diego. Most visitors come to Melbourne for the beaches, the city activities, and 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.

Melbourne is around the same temperature as San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Melbourne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Melbourne usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during summer. Melbourne gets 271 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Melbourne usually receives more rain than San Diegoin July. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Melbourne or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Melbourne as well as San Diego. The autumn months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the city's sights and attractions and 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 the autumn, Melbourne is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Melbourne in April average around 15°C (60°F), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the autumn, Melbourne often gets less sunshine than San Diegoin October. Melbourne gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets more rain in April than San Diegoin October. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Melbourne or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Melbourne 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 Melbourne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Melbourne is generally cooler than San Diegoin January. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 9°C (49°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Melbourne usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Melbourne gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Melbourne usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Diegoin January. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Melbourne or San Diego in the Spring?

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

Melbourne is cooler than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C)in April.

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Melbourne. In the spring, Melbourne often gets less sunshine than San Diegoin April. Melbourne gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets more rain in October than San Diegoin April. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Melbourne