A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sacramento vs. Breckenridge for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Sacramento or Breckenridge?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sacramento or Breckenridge, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a relaxed, undiscovered, and laid back city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a charming, breathtaking, and adventurous ski resort. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Sacramento and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Sacramento or Breckenridge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Breckenridge than Sacramento, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Breckenridge is better known for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Sacramento is more popular for its museums. Breckenridge is more touristy than Sacramento and is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Also, Breckenridge is famous for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort. Sacramento is well known for its history and state capital.

How is Sacramento different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very popular for skiing and snowboarding. However, Sacramento is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Breckenridge is among the best in the world. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Sacramento is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sacramento or Breckenridge?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Sacramento is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Sacramento offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Sacramento or Breckenridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Both Sacramento and Breckenridge offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Sacramento has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Breckenridge area. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Sacramento and Breckenridge.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sacramento. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

Breckenridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.


Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sacramento is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Breckenridge makes a nice vacation spot. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Sacramento is not a resort destination.

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Sacramento does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Breckenridge. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Sacramento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sacramento is not a hiking destination.

Breckenridge has hiking trails worth exploring. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Sacramento is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Sacramento or Breckenridge?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Breckenridge is well-known for its shopping. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Many visitors go to Sacramento to go shopping. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Sacramento does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Sacramento does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Sacramento does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Sacramento does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Breckenridge is very family-friendly. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sacramento. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

Breckenridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Sacramento is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although most backpackers skip this town for more popular destinations, there are a couple of hostels in town.


Is Sacramento or Breckenridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Sacramento and Breckenridge.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Sacramento or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Sacramento
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Breckenridge. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Sacramento Worth Visiting? and Is Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Sacramento?

How long in Sacramento or Breckenridge?

Both Sacramento and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Sacramento. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Sacramento, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge than Sacramento 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 Breckenridge.


  • How many days in Sacramento or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sacramento 1-2 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Sacramento or Breckenridge?

In Sacramento, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxed city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Sacramento or Breckenridge?

Sacramento is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Sacramento or Breckenridge?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of Sacramento. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Breckenridge, a popular ski resort, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this ski resort. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Sacramento or Breckenridge?

Sacramento is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Breckenridge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Sacramento?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sacramento is $281, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $200. 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 Sacramento and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sacramento $111
    Breckenridge $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sacramento $222
    Breckenridge $212
Compare Hotels in Sacramento and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Sacramento or Breckenridge? 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 Sacramento


Hotels in Breckenridge


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: Sacramento Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sacramento $51
    Breckenridge $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sacramento

Also for Sacramento, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $110
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $219
  • Round Trip Private Transfer in Sacramento Airport to Calistoga: $293

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $185
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $192
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $196

Is it cheaper to fly into Sacramento or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Sacramento 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
    Sacramento $53
    Breckenridge $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour: $98
  • Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour: $98
  • Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Midtown Walking Food Tour: $145
  • Italian Cooking and Dance Class Experience: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sacramento $19
    Breckenridge $94

Tours and Activities in Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Gold Rush & Ghosts SmartPhone App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $12
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Delta's History and Wine: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Auburn to Placerville: $12
  • Sacramento Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

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

  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $33
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $32
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Self-Guided Snow Shoe Tours: $17
  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sacramento $12
    Breckenridge $7.79

Sample the Local Flavors in Sacramento

Also in Sacramento, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sacramento Bar Hunt: Sacramento Sprint Bar Crawl: $12
  • Cider and Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch - near Sacramento: $125

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85


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

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


Which is Bigger, Sacramento or Breckenridge?

Sacramento has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Sacramento and Breckenridge, 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.