Seattle travel cost guide

The Pacific Northwest’s harbour city, symbolised by the Space Needle and Pike Place Market; ringed by water and Mount Rainier, and known for coffee and seafood.

Suggested stay: 3–4 days

Estimate a 3-night, 4-day Seattle trip

When to visit Seattle

July–September: Dry, clear days for the waterfront and views of Mount Rainier from the observation decks. source

Weather: July–September is dry and sunny — the best time; October–April is the rainy season. source

Times to avoid: October–April is wet; pack a rain jacket and save the observation deck for a clear day. source

Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.

Don't miss in Seattle

Space Needle Seattle’s icon from the 1962 World’s Fair, with a rotating glass floor; prices vary by time and season. source
Pike Place Market The waterfront market famous for its flying fish, full of seafood and craft stalls. source
Chihuly Garden and Glass Dale Chihuly’s glass art galleries and garden beside the Space Needle. source

Where to stay in Seattle

Downtown / Pike Place: A walk to the market and waterfront, near light-rail stations to the airport.
South Lake Union / Seattle Center: Close to the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass.

What to eat in Seattle

Dungeness Crab — Washington’s native crab with a delicate, sweet taste
Clam Chowder — Creamy clam soup, a Pike Place Market favourite
Grilled Wild Salmon — Wild Pacific Northwest salmon, grilled

Seattle tips and things to watch out for

Seattle travel tips

Menu prices exclude tax (10.55% in Seattle) and tip; an 18–20% tip is usual. source
Airport to city: Link light rail Line 1 runs from Sea-Tac to downtown in about 40 minutes for a flat $3. source

Good to know in United States

In the US, sales tax may be added to the displayed price depending on the place and product. Check a restaurant menu for extra charges before ordering. source
In LA, both public transit and ride-hailing are available. Check Metro routes and ride-hail pickup points before moving between sights. source

Watch out for in United States

Car break-ins are common; never leave bags or anything visible in a parked car. source
In unfamiliar parts of the US, avoid walking alone through quiet areas, especially at night. source

General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.

Restaurant prices for Seattle are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in United States.

Seattle attraction & theme park tickets

Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.

Space Needle general admission (Adult): $35.00 ~ $55.00
Chihuly Garden and Glass (Adult): $40.00 ~ $45.00 · child $35.00 ~ $40.00

Estimate a 3-night, 4-day Seattle trip

Must-see spots, local tips, admission prices and foods to try in Seattle. Price data as of 2026-10-18.