A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Venice vs. San Diego for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Venice or San Diego?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and San Diego can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a beautiful, romantic, and cultural city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Venice and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego than Venice, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Diego is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Venice is known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Venice is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. San Diego is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo.

How is Venice different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice is renowned for its historical sights. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Venice are world-renowned. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Venice or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Venice and San Diego both to be good destinations.

Venice is becoming an appealing option for foodies. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

San Diego offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Venice or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is great for its music scene. However, Venice is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Venice is not a live music destination.

Is Venice or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Venice is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. 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.

Venice is not a resort destination.

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

San Diego is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in San Diego. 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.

Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Venice or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Venice is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, San Diego is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Venice or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Venice is renowned for its old town. However, San Diego does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Venice is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Venice or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is great for hiking. However, Venice is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. 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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or San Diego?

Venice is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Venice draws large crowds to its stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Venice is a very family-friendly place to visit. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is Venice or San Diego Better for Couples?

Both Venice and San Diego are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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.

Is Venice or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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

Is Venice or San Diego Better for Students?

For students, both Venice and San Diego are first-rate places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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.

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

Venice is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

Venice has a great public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice or San Diego a more walkable city?

Venice is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Venice Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Venice?

How long in Venice or San Diego?

In either Venice or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

One day in Venice or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Venice. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Venice or San Diego?

You'll find museums and food around the magical destination of Venice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

San Diego is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Venice or San Diego?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Venice. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Venice or San Diego?

Venice is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the idyllic destination of San Diego. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Venice and San Diego, we can see that Venice is more expensive. And not only is San Diego much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Venice is in Europe and San Diego is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice 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 Venice Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Venice or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Venice in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Venice is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 23°C (73°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Venice. Venice usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during summer. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Venice usually receives more rain than San Diego. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Venice or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Venice during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to San Diego because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Venice is cooler than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Venice often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and San Diego. The winter months attract visitors to Venice because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

The weather in Venice can be very cold. In the winter, Venice is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Venice in January average around 3°C (37°F), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Venice usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Venice usually receives more rain than San Diego. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Venice or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Venice as well as San Diego. The natural beauty are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Venice is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 13°C (55°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the spring, Venice often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Venice