A Travel Price Comparison for California Sacramento vs. San Diego for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Sacramento or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sacramento or San Diego, 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Sacramento and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sacramento or San Diego?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Sacramento. San Diego is bigger than Sacramento, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is more touristy than Sacramento 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. Sacramento is well known for its history and state capital.

How is Sacramento different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sacramento can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Diego. 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 Sacramento or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Sacramento and San Diego 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 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 Sacramento or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

San Diego has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Sacramento has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Sacramento or San Diego Better for Music?

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

Sacramento is not a live music destination.

Is Sacramento or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is not a resort destination.

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

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sacramento is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Sacramento is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sacramento or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is very popular for the beache. However, Sacramento is not a beach destination.

The beaches in San Diego are among the best in the world. 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.

Sacramento is not a beach destination.

Is Sacramento or San Diego Better for Hiking?

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

Sacramento is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sacramento or San Diego?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Sacramento and San Diego.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sacramento. 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.

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 Sacramento or San Diego Better for Families?

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

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. 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.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego 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 San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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 San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Sacramento is not popular with students.

San Diego is a great destination for students. 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.

Sacramento is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Sacramento and San Diego.

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

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 Sacramento or San Diego a more walkable city?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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 San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Sacramento?

How long in Sacramento or San Diego?

In either Sacramento or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Sacramento because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Sacramento, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Sacramento or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sacramento. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sacramento has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the relaxed coastal city of San Diego, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sacramento or San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Sacramento. 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.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of San Diego, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Sacramento or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back city of Sacramento. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

San Diego, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Sacramento or San Diego?

Sacramento is a popular choice for travelers. 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sacramento and San Diego, we can see that Sacramento is more expensive. And not only is San Diego much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Diego would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Diego 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 San Diego.

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

Which is Bigger, Sacramento or San Diego?

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

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 Sacramento or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sacramento and San Diego. Many travelers come to Sacramento for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Sacramento is a little warmer than San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Sacramento averages around 76°F (24°C) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Sacramento, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sacramento usually receives more sunshine than San Diego during summer. Sacramento gets 439 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Sacramento usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Diego. Sacramento gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sacramento or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sacramento as well as San Diego. Many visitors come to Sacramento in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Sacramento is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sacramento in October average around 64°F (18°C), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sacramento this time of the year. In the autumn, Sacramento often gets more sunshine than San Diego. Sacramento gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Sacramento usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Sacramento gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sacramento or San Diego in the Winter?

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

In January, Sacramento is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Sacramento average around 45°F (7°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Sacramento usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Sacramento gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sacramento usually receives more rain than San Diego. Sacramento gets 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sacramento or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Sacramento during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Sacramento is cooler than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Sacramento averages around 58°F (15°C) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sacramento. In the spring, Sacramento often gets more sunshine than San Diego. Sacramento gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Sacramento usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Sacramento gets 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Sacramento