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

Should you visit Baltimore or Napa Valley?

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 Baltimore and Napa Valley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a historic, vibrant, and diverse city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a picturesque, idyllic, and scenic area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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 Baltimore or Napa Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore than Napa Valley, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Baltimore is more popular for its museums and big city activities, while Napa Valley is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Napa Valley is popular for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

How is Baltimore different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Baltimore
Napa Valley

Baltimore 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 Baltimore. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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 Baltimore or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Napa Valley has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Baltimore has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Is Baltimore or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Napa Valley

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Baltimore and Napa Valley.

Baltimore is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Many people head to Napa Valley for the nightlife scene. 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 Baltimore or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Napa Valley?

Baltimore
Napa Valley

Shopping is a popular activity in both Napa Valley and Baltimore.

Baltimore is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

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.

Is Baltimore or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Baltimore
Napa Valley

Baltimore is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baltimore. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Baltimore or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Napa Valley has plenty to offer. 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.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.


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

Baltimore
Napa Valley

Baltimore is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Napa Valley is not known for backpackers.

Baltimore is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

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

Baltimore
Napa Valley

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

The public transit in Baltimore can get you to most places easily. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

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 Baltimore or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Napa Valley

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

Baltimore is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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 Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Baltimore or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Napa Valley due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

Couples should spend more time in Napa Valley than Baltimore. 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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore.


  • How many days in Baltimore or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Baltimore or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful city of Baltimore. 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 Baltimore or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Baltimore. 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 idyllic 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 Baltimore or Napa Valley?

The vibrant city of Baltimore 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 idyllic 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 Baltimore or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baltimore. 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 The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Baltimore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $184, 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 Baltimore and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore 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 Baltimore


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: Baltimore Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $209
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD & Reagan Airport(DCA): $200
  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • Arrival Private Transfer Baltimore Airport BWI to Baltimore by Business Vehicle: $111
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $63
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Baltimore 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
    Baltimore $46
    Napa Valley $62
Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Baltimore.

  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $67
  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $126
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

Here are a few actual costs in Baltimore for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Assateague Island Cruise Departs from Ocean Pines: $45
  • Baltimore Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise Tour: $105
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Baltimore Harbor Tour: $28
  • Baltimore Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $92
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore Signature Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point: $99
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • Baltimore's Historical Sightseeing Tour: $41

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $25
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley "Up Valley" Castle Tour : $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour: $125
  • Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour: $125
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Sonoma Valley: $130
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • From Patapsco Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Baltimore and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley is more expensive. And not only is Baltimore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Baltimore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Baltimore 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 Napa Valley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Napa Valley than you might in Baltimore.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Baltimore Expensive? and Is Napa Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Napa Valley?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore 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 Baltimore or Napa Valley?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Baltimore or Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Baltimore during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Baltimore is a little warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the summer, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually gets more rain in July than Napa Valley. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Napa Valley. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Baltimore is generally cooler than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during autumn. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Napa Valley. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Baltimore can be very cold during winter. Baltimore is much colder than Napa Valley in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In the winter, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets less rain in January than Napa Valley. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

In the spring, Baltimore is around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during spring. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Baltimore

Baltimore Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)