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

Should you visit Monterey or Albuquerque?

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 Monterey and Albuquerque. 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a cultural, outdoorsy, and desert town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Monterey and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Monterey or Albuquerque?

Both Albuquerque and Monterey have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Monterey is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Albuquerque is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Monterey is more touristy than Albuquerque and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Albuquerque is well known for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Monterey different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Monterey or Albuquerque?

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Albuquerque and Monterey.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Is the Food Better in Monterey or Albuquerque? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Monterey and Albuquerque can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Albuquerque makes for a great culinary experience. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is a great city for nightlife. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Monterey has something for everybody. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a good destination for its beaches. However, Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Monterey offers a nice beach destination. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Albuquerque is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Albuquerque offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Albuquerque is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Albuquerque offers some nice hiking trails. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Albuquerque?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Monterey and Albuquerque.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Albuquerque is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Monterey is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Monterey and Albuquerque both excellent destinations for a couple.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Couples visit Albuquerque frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Albuquerque is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Albuquerque. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Monterey is not popular with students.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Monterey and Albuquerque.

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Is Monterey or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Monterey is a great city for its walkability. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

For even more information, also check out Is Monterey Worth Visiting? and Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Monterey?

How long in Monterey or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either Monterey or Albuquerque. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Albuquerque due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Monterey, and 2-4 days is enough time in Albuquerque.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Albuquerque 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 Monterey.

One day in Monterey or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the nature-oriented city of Monterey. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The town of Albuquerque offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Monterey or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Monterey. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Albuquerque 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Albuquerque, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Monterey or Albuquerque?

The laid back city of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Albuquerque 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.

A week in Monterey or Albuquerque?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Monterey. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Albuquerque is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Monterey or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Monterey and Albuquerque, 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.