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

Should you visit Norfolk or Berkeley?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Berkeley? 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Norfolk and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Norfolk or Berkeley?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Berkeley than Norfolk. While Norfolk is larger than Berkeley, Berkeley has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Berkeley is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Also, Berkeley is famous for University of California Botanical Garden. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.


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

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Norfolk or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Berkeley know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Berkeley?

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.


Is Norfolk or Berkeley Better for Families?

Norfolk
Berkeley

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Norfolk or Berkeley.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Norfolk. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Berkeley offers lots of family activities. 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 Norfolk or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Norfolk or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.


Is Norfolk or Berkeley Better for Students?

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for students. However, Norfolk is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Norfolk is not popular with students.

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

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Berkeley has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Norfolk or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.


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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Norfolk and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Berkeley than in Norfolk. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Norfolk or Berkeley?

The city of Norfolk 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.

In Berkeley, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Norfolk or Berkeley?

Norfolk 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 Norfolk, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Berkeley, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berkeley has to offer.

Five days in Norfolk or Berkeley?

Norfolk 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.

Berkeley is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Norfolk or Berkeley?

Norfolk 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Berkeley. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Norfolk?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $166, 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 Norfolk and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Norfolk $84
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Norfolk $168
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Norfolk and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk 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 Norfolk


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: Norfolk Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Norfolk or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $49
    Berkeley $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $101
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $126
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

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.
    Norfolk $14
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $84
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $84
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $104
  • Mother's Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk: $124

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $26
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Norfolk $10
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Downtown Norfolk: $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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Berkeley?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Berkeley?

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 Norfolk or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Berkeley. Many travelers come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Berkeley in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Norfolk is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 79°F (26°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Norfolk gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Berkeley. Many visitors come to Norfolk in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Norfolk is around the same temperature as Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Norfolk usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Norfolk can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Norfolk is much colder than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Norfolk in January average around 39°F (4°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Norfolk usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Norfolk during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In April, Norfolk is generally around the same temperature as Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 58°F (14°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Norfolk usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Norfolk

Norfolk Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)