A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New York City vs. Big Sur for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit New York City or Big Sur?

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 New York City and Big Sur. 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.

New York City

New York City is a energetic, cosmopolitan, and one-of-a-kind city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

New York City and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New York City or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in New York City than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. New York City is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Big Sur is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. New York City is more touristy than Big Sur and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is New York City different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Sur and New York City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New York City or Big Sur?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, New York City has many famous sights for visitors. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Theater?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Big Sur is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Big Sur is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New York City or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

New York City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in New York City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Music?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Big Sur is not a live music destination.

New York City has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Big Sur is not a live music destination.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, New York City is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Big Sur for it's beautiful beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

New York City is not a beach destination.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

New York City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Big Sur?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many people travel to New York City specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Christmas?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Big Sur does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, New York City is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Big Sur does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Big Sur does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Big Sur does not offer Christmas markets.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Families?

New York City is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in New York City. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Couples?

New York City and Big Sur both first-rate destinations for a couple.

New York City is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Students?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Sur is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Big Sur is not popular with students.

Is New York City or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in New York City can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is New York City or Big Sur a more walkable city?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

New York City is a very easy city to get around on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is New York City Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or New York City?

How long in New York City or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both New York City and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Big Sur. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Big Sur 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 New York City.

One day in New York City or Big Sur?

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Big Sur. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in New York City or Big Sur?

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in New York City or Big Sur?

New York City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Big Sur. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in New York City or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find food around the beautiful natural area of Big Sur. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is New York City Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit New York City or Big Sur?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit New York City or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both New York City and Big Sur. Many travelers come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, New York City is generally a little warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in New York City average around 77°F (25°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

New York City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, New York City usually receives more rain than Big Sur. New York City gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New York City or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to New York City as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to New York City in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

New York City is cooler than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in New York City averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

New York City usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. New York City gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New York City or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and New York City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to New York City for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine.

New York City can be very cold during winter. In the winter, New York City is much colder than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in New York City in January average around 31°F (-1°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, New York City usually receives more rain than Big Sur. New York City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New York City or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and New York City during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to New York City because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

In April, New York City is generally cooler than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in New York City average around 52°F (11°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

New York City usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. New York City gets 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and New York City