A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Arlington vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Arlington or Napa Valley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Napa Valley, 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.

Arlington

Arlington is a educational, international, and historical city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Arlington and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Napa Valley?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Napa Valley than Arlington. While Arlington is larger than Napa Valley, Napa Valley has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Napa Valley is very popular for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Arlington attracts visitors for its museums. Arlington is famous for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Napa Valley is famous for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also well known for Louis M. Martini Winery.

How is Arlington different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arlington or Napa Valley?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Arlington is a great city for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Arlington or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Napa Valley is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arlington makes for a great culinary experience. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

Is Arlington or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Both Arlington and Napa Valley have high quality vibes after the sun sets.

Arlington has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

The people in Napa Valley know how to have a good time. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

Is Arlington or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Napa Valley?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Arlington is a great destination for shopping. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Is Arlington or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Arlington and Napa Valley are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Arlington is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Napa Valley. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Arlington or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Napa Valley has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.


Is Arlington or Napa Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Arlington is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Napa Valley is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.

Is Arlington or Napa Valley Better for Students?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Arlington is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Napa Valley is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Napa Valley is not popular with students.

Is Arlington or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Arlington is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Arlington can take you anywhere. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.


Is Arlington or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Arlington
Napa Valley

Arlington is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Arlington is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Napa Valley is not a walkable city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Arlington or Napa Valley. In our opinion, Arlington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arlington than Napa Valley. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Arlington, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

Couples should spend more time in Napa Valley than Arlington. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Napa Valley that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Napa Valley 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 Arlington.


  • How many days in Arlington or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Arlington or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the educational city of Arlington. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the area of Napa Valley. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Napa Valley has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the international destination of Arlington. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the picturesque destination of Napa Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Arlington or Napa Valley?

The international city of Arlington offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque area of Napa Valley. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Arlington or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arlington. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Napa Valley is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Arlington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $264, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $288. 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 Arlington and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Napa Valley? 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 Arlington


Hotels in Napa Valley


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: Arlington Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Arlington 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
    Arlington $81
    Napa Valley $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


When comparing the travel costs between Arlington and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley 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 Arlington Expensive? and Is Napa Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Napa Valley?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Arlington and Napa Valley, 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 Arlington or Napa Valley?

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 Arlington or Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Napa Valley. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arlington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Arlington is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arlington usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arlington usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Napa Valley. Many travelers come to Arlington for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Arlington is around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arlington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. In the autumn, Arlington often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Arlington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arlington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Arlington can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Arlington is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 35°F (1°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Arlington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley during winter. Arlington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arlington usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Arlington during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the natural beauty.

Arlington is around the same temperature as Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arlington. In the spring, Arlington often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Arlington

Arlington Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)