Whistler is an outdoorsy village known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're skiing on the slopes, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Whistler, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Whistler?
You should plan to spend around $145 (CA$202) per day on your vacation in Whistler. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $51 (CA$72) on meals
- $19 (CA$27) on local transportation
- $128 (CA$179) on hotels
A one week trip to Whistler for two people costs, on average, $2,030 (CA$2,828). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$1,015
CA$1,414
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2 Weeks
Per person
$2,030
CA$2,828
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One Month
Per person
$4,350
CA$6,060
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,030
CA$2,828
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,060
CA$5,656
-
One Month
For a couple
$8,700
CA$12,120
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Whistler cost?
A one week trip to Whistler usually costs around $1,015 (CA$1,414) for one person and $2,030 (CA$2,828) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Whistler on average costs around $2,030 (CA$2,828) for one person and $4,060 (CA$5,656) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Whistler will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Whistler on average costs around $4,350 (CA$6,060) for one person and $8,700 (CA$12,120) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Whistler expensive to visit?
Whistler is a popular village that attracts plenty of visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Whistler can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
On average, budget travelers spend $65 (CA$89) per day, mid-range travelers spend $146 (CA$202) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $269 (CA$372) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Whistler.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Whistler is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Hope, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Key West.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Whistler Expensive?
Cabins on the mountain in Whistler, Canada
How much money do I need for a trip to Whistler?
The average Whistler trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Whistler travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Whistler cost?
Whistler on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$29
(CA$40)
|
$64
(CA$89)
|
$114
(CA$158)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$9
(CA$12)
|
$19
(CA$27)
|
$37
(CA$51)
|
|
Food 2
|
$22
(CA$31)
|
$51
(CA$72)
|
$98
(CA$136)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$34
(CA$47)
|
$77
(CA$108)
|
$146
(CA$203)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-6
(CA$3-8)
|
$4-13
(CA$6-18)
|
$9-26
(CA$12-36)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations for your budget when visiting Whistler is important. While it's tempting to aim for a shoestring budget, most travelers don't find that style of travel to be enjoyable. Think about your priorities and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer staying in budget accommodations or enjoying more luxurious options? Do you like to explore attractions and dine out at local restaurants? These choices will influence your travel costs and itinerary.
Whistler on a Shoestring Budget?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $65 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Thankfully, Whistler is home to plenty of hostels, including HI Whistler, Whistler Fireside Lodge, and Pangea Pod Hotel – Whistler Village. In these hostels, you can find economical dorm accommodations and a fun social atmosphere, but amenities are typically limited. While food is an important aspect for all visitors in Whistler, budget travelers tend to favor street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which might keep them from experiencing the local cuisine.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
Couples and families traveling for leisure often prefer mid-range hotels, dine at popular eateries, and visit key museums and attractions that require an entry fee. Most visitors to Whistler will want to visit the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. It's important to remember that most activities will cost you money. Consequently, you should anticipate your daily budget to be closer to $146 per person, per day.
Whistler offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Nita Lake Lodge is an excellent choice, while Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler is also a great option. Couples visiting Whistler will appreciate the romantic setting at Nita Lake Lodge. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Whistler.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $269 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the village will require a luxury budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Whistler Sightseeing Tour: Discover all of Whistler in Comfort! - offered by Viator.
Whistler Village
Accommodation Budget in Whistler
The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Whistler can be very surprising. Some hotels have much higher price tags than others, and in turn offer higher levels of luxury and more amenities. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. The average price for a hotel room in Whistler in the off-season is $249, but in the peak winter travel season it will average around $465. In general, you can expect hotel prices in Whistler to range from $168 to $884. Hostels are typically much cheaper, especially if you stay in a dorm. Also, note that the average hotel price is not always what travelers will pay (see below). You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too, along with taking advantage of sale prices or special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Whistler for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $128 (CA$179). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $64 (CA$89) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Whistler? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Whistler include:
- Nita Lake Lodge starting at $291
- Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler starting at $237
- Sundial Boutique Hotel starting at $222
- Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside starting at $291
- The Crystal Lodge starting at $193
If you're traveling to Whistler with kids, you'll want to choose an apartment or accommodation with more space to enjoy.
There are plenty of resorts in this village to choose from. Some may offer meals or at least breakfast, and many have restaurants on the premises.
A honeymoon in Whistler calls for a luxury hotel, and there are many to choose from, including popular ones like Nita Lake Lodge, Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler, and Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
With many visitors staying up to a week in Whistler, a vacation rental with a kitchen could be a great option for longer stays, allowing you to cook meals.
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than winter, will allow you to find cheaper accommodation and fewer tourists.
Many people like to explore Whistler on foot, so you'll want to stay in an area that is at the center of everything. This can come at a higher price though.
Ski season often brings rising prices, so be sure to book early. Many accommodations close to the slopes tend to fill up fast and may come with a higher price tag.
Transportation Budget in Whistler
Whistler does not has a good public transit system. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.
If walking is your preferred way to explore, you'll have a great time here. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $19 (CA$27) per person, per day, on local transportation in Whistler. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Whistler is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$19
CA$27
If you're driving, make sure your hotel has convenient parking.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Private Departure Transfer from Whistler to Vancouver Airport YVR for $75 details
- Transfer private vehicle from Whistler -Vancouver Airport (YVR) for $203 details
- One Way Scenic Seaplane transfer from Whistler to Richmond for $204 details
How much does it cost to go to Whistler? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Whistler will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Whistler
Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Whistler by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Whistler can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Whistler is $51 (CA$72) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$51
CA$72
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Whistler is around $52 (CA$72) per person, with previous travelers spending from $23 to $99. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Whistler are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $16
- Lunch: $8 to $21
- Dinner: $16 to $36
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
You can find a range of restaurant types around Whistler Village. There's really anything from cheap fast food, which is probably the best option if you're on a budget, to high end, expensive restaurants that usually offer some great views. The on-hill options are also surprisingly reasonably priced. There's a slight mark up, but nothing more than you would expect at any other location. You can get a bowl of udon soup for ten dollars or a salmon steak for twelve dollars.
Many people spend the evenings relaxing in one of Whistler's many bars. It's a great way to rest and enjoy yourself after a long day of skiing. This is also a great way to meet fellow visitors and swap stories. There are many types of drinks available, but if you're a beer drinker, make sure you try the local micro-brewery beer which is always good.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.
Why not save some bucks and enjoy the sights by having a picnic? Stop by a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and head to a nice park or beautiful spot to enjoy your meal.
Using a water bottle can save you money on drinks while being eco-friendly.
When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Whistler, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Finer Things Dinner Tour in Whistler for $142 details
- Finer Things: 4-Course Dinner Tour in Whistler for $127 details
Food and meal prices in Whistler, based on real travelers' reported expenses, are shown below. These typical costs can give you a sense of the overall price range for meals. However, your individual expenses might be different depending on your dining habits, restaurant choices, and specific orders.
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Coffee at Starbucks
CA$16
-
Tim Hortons Breakfast
CA$16
-
Coffee at Timmy's
CA$5.00
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Whistler
Tourists can't resist Whistler, especially for its well-known skiing, hiking, family-friendly activities, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Whistler typically cost an average of $77 (CA$108) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$77
CA$108
Whistler is more about winter sports and activities than it is about specific sights. In general, the area is very beautiful with breathtaking views throughout. The Whistler and Blackcomb Gondolas run year around (with closures for maintenance in October and early November) and offer great views. A visit to Brandywine Falls Provincial Park is also worth the effort. There is a 70 meter waterfall that is a short 15 minute walk from the parking lot.
A visit to Whistler is centered around outdoor activities and winter sports. Some favorites of the area include cross country skiing, snowboarding, and downhill skiing. Whistler Blackcomb is an excellent destination if you're interested in skiing or boarding. For backcountry skiing and cross country skiing head to Lost Lake.
If you're in the area during the summer months, then mountain biking is the thing to do. Whistler Mountain Bike Park has lifts that carry bikers and bikes up the mountain. Other summer time activities include golf, hiking, and tennis. For easy hiking trails head to Cougar Mountain. If you're looking for a longer hike, go to Brandywine Meadows where there's a six hour hike up steep terrain. For multi-day treks there are a handful of options including Helm Creek trail to Garibaldi Lake and the Black Tusk.
Skiing:
If you're into skiing or snowboarding, Whistler is where you want to be. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.
Hiking:
Exploring the hiking trails near Whistler is a wonderful experience. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Whistler. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Guided Fishing Adventure in Whistler for $152 details
- Whistler ATV Bushwhacker Tour for $131 details
- Scenic Snowmobile Tour in Whistler for $182 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Whistler are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
Nightlife Budget in Whistler
The nightlife in Whistler is fun and active, and visitors enjoy spending nights out at the local bars, clubs, and parties. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $8.63 (CA$12) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Whistler per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$8.63
CA$12
While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.
Be vigilant if you're out at night, especially if alcohol is involved. Thieves often target distracted individuals, so it's smart to stay with trusted friends and avoid going off by yourself.
Traveling in Whistler
Whistler Village
Located in the province of British Columbia in Canada, Whistler is most famous as the largest ski area in North America. It is also only a short distance from the city of Vancouver, and offers countless opportunities for snow boarding and other winter sports. The town has a permanent population of almost 10,000 and there is a larger seasonal population of workers that come from all over the world. Whistler is a major travel destination with more than two million people visiting the town yearly. As such, there are countless amenities available to visitors. Hotels can vary dramatically in price and quality. There are some budget options, including a couple of hostels in the area, but most people do not visit Whistler as a budget travel destination. It's usually an expensive vacation, but few would argue that it isn't worth the cost.
Whistler's climate has cold and wet winters and dry and warm summers. There is a decent amount of yearly snow and winter temperatures hover around freezing during the day. You can expect snow to be on the ground between December and early April.
Neighborhoods & Around
While the town of Whistler is somewhat sprawling, as a tourist you're likely to spend most of your time in the quaint villages that have sprung up around the base of the ski lifts. You'll find most of the area's restaurants, hotels, and shopping in Whistler Village, the Upper Village, and Whistler Creekside (Old Alpha Lake). These villages are at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb. Village North, or Blackcomb Village, is located at the old base of Blackcomb. It is small, but still has a few amenities. At the old Olympic Village there is a newer town called Cheackamus. This is about 20 minutes from Whistler Village and is where you'll find the Whistler hostel. About 20 minutes north of the Whistler town limits is the town of Pemberton. This is a quiet community where many of the area's workers live.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.