A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Breckenridge for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit San Francisco or Breckenridge?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and quirky coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a charming, breathtaking, and adventurous ski resort. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

San Francisco and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Golden Gate Bridge
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less hiking options
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in San Francisco or Breckenridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Francisco. Although San Francisco and Breckenridge are both popular with visitors, San Francisco has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Francisco is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Breckenridge is known for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. San Francisco is more touristy than Breckenridge and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. Breckenridge is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment.

How is San Francisco different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for skiing. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Francisco or Breckenridge?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in San Francisco are among the most recognizable in the world. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Theater?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Breckenridge is not a theatre destination.

San Francisco offers a number of shows and performances. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Breckenridge is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, San Francisco is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both San Francisco and Breckenridge.

If you're looking for night time activities San Francisco has a few options to choose from. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Breckenridge. 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 San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Music?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Francisco is active and vibrant. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

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

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. 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.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.


Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a well-known place for the beache. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

San Francisco is considered a top beach destination. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

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

Breckenridge has an old town worth visiting. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. 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.


Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Breckenridge?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in San Francisco make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, San Francisco does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Breckenridge. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

San Francisco does not offer Christmas activities.

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a great ski resort for visiting Christmas markets. However, San Francisco does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Breckenridge offer plenty to see during the holidays. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

San Francisco does not offer Christmas markets.


Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Families?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Francisco is a very family-friendly destination. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. 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.

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco and Breckenridge are both very good to visit as a couple.

San Francisco is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

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

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

San Francisco is a great coastal city to visit for backpackers. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.


Is San Francisco or Breckenridge Better for Students?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a well-known place for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

San Francisco is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Breckenridge is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco
Breckenridge

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in San Francisco can get you around easily. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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

Is San Francisco or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

San Francisco
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

Breckenridge is a very easy ski resort to get around on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.


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

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Breckenridge?

Both San Francisco and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, San Francisco has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Francisco than Breckenridge. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


  • How many days in San Francisco or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Francisco 3-7 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in San Francisco or Breckenridge?

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Francisco or Breckenridge?

San Francisco is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in San Francisco or Breckenridge?

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in San Francisco or Breckenridge?

San Francisco is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or San Francisco?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Francisco is $222, 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 San Francisco and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Francisco $130
    Breckenridge $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Francisco $260
    Breckenridge $212
Compare Hotels in San Francisco and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in San Francisco 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 San Francisco


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: San Francisco Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Francisco $16
    Breckenridge $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Francisco

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in San Francisco:


  • Taxi to SFO
    $45
  • Golden Gate Bridge Toll
    $6.00
  • Alcatraz Tour
    $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Francisco

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

  • Transfer in private vehicle from San Francisco Airport to City: $35
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Oakland - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from San Francisco Airport SFO: $44
  • San Francisco to Oakland Airport (OAK) Private Departure Transfer: $63
  • San Francisco Airport to San Francisco Private Arrival Transfer: $79
  • San Francisco to San Francisco Airport Private Departure Transfer: $79
  • Round trip transfer in private vehicle from-to Airport in San Francisco: $80
  • SFO Airport Private Transfer to/from Downtown San Francisco: $96
  • Private Airport Transfer: San Francisco to SF International Airport (SFO): $107
  • Private Transfer from San Francisco to Airport SFO in Business Car: $108
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport SFO to San Francisco in Business Car: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: San Francisco to Airport SFO in Business Car: $108

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $196
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $193
  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into San Francisco or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and San Francisco 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
    San Francisco $46
    Breckenridge $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Francisco

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

  • North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour: $79
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay: $82
  • Secret Food Tours San Francisco: $83
  • Mission District Food Tour with Tastings: $85
  • Farmers' Market & Ferry Building Food Tour: $87
  • San Francisco Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Mission District Food Tour: $89
  • Mission District Walking Food Tour: $89
  • Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco North Beach Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco Food Tour: Ferry Building and Ferry Plaza Farmers Market: $90
  • Secret Food Tour of North Beach and Chinatown: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Francisco $46
    Breckenridge $94

Tours and Activities in San Francisco

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Francisco.

  • Golden Gate Bridge: Self-guided Tour App - Audio + Written: $5.00
  • Self-Guided Golden Gate Bridge Bike or Walking App Tour: $5.00
  • San Francisco’s Chinatown on foot: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Embarcadero Self-Guided Audio Smartphone Tour: $5.99
  • Leave your heart at the Wharf: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • San Francisco self-guided tour App - multilingual AudioGuide: $6.42
  • Ghosts & Hauntings Audio App Walking Tour: $6.99
  • The Ghosts of San Francisco Haunted Audio App Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Japantown & Stories: $6.99
  • The Secrets of Golden Gate Park: A San Francisco Chronicle Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • San Francisco's Castro Neighborhood: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Secrets of Golden Gate Park Audio Tour: $7.99

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
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $67
  • 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

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Museums in San Francisco, The Best Outdoor Activities in San Francisco, and Things to Do In San Francisco on a Rainy Day.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Francisco $22
    Breckenridge $7.79

Sample the Local Flavors in San Francisco

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in San Francisco:

  • Chinatown San Francisco’s Bar Crawl: An Audio Tour: $4.99
  • San Francisco Bar Crawl + Clubbing Experience: $27
  • SF Pub Crawl and Clubbing Experience: $27
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Sunset Distillery with Local Whiskey or Cocktail Tasting: $40
  • 2 to 3 Hour Bar Crawl in Castro San Francisco: $49
  • Wine Tasting on the Bay: $85
  • Private Wine Tour Napa or Sonoma from $99 per person up to 7 & Concierge Service: $99
  • The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour: $109
  • Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour: $109
  • Big Bus Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $125
  • Half-Day Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings: $126

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 comparing the travel costs between San Francisco and Breckenridge, we can see that San Francisco 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 San Francisco Expensive? and Is Breckenridge Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Francisco or Breckenridge?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of San Francisco 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.