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

Should you visit Baltimore or Newport?

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 Newport can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

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

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Newport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Newport are both popular with visitors, Baltimore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Baltimore is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Newport is known for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also home to the National Aquarium. Newport is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history.

How is Baltimore different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newport 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 Newport?

Baltimore
Newport

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Baltimore and Newport.

Many visitors head to Baltimore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


Is the Food Better in Baltimore or Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Newport

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Newport both to be very good destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Baltimore. 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.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Baltimore or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Newport

Baltimore is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Baltimore has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Baltimore or Newport Better for Beaches?

Baltimore
Newport

Newport is well known for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Newport is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.


Is Baltimore or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Baltimore
Newport

Newport is well known for its old town. However, Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Newport?

Baltimore
Newport

Shopping is a popular activity in both Newport 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 Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Baltimore or Newport Better for Families?

Baltimore
Newport

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Newport.

Baltimore is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.


Is Baltimore or Newport Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Newport

Newport 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, Newport has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Newport

Baltimore is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

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

Baltimore
Newport

Baltimore is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Baltimore offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.


Is Baltimore or Newport a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Newport

Baltimore and Newport both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

For even more information, also check out Is Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Newport?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Newport 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 Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Baltimore or Newport?

In Baltimore, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Newport. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

A weekend in Baltimore or Newport?

In Baltimore, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Baltimore has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Newport. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Baltimore or Newport?

Baltimore is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal town of Newport. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Baltimore or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baltimore. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baltimore. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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, Newport 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 Newport is $159. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $45
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Newport $17

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 Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Newport Downtown Historic Audio APP Self Guided Smart Phone Tour: $6.75
  • Newport Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport's Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Cliff Walk Gilded Age Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Scenic Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Newport $14

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


When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Newport, we can see that Baltimore 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 Baltimore Expensive? and Is Newport Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Newport?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Newport. The summer months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. In the summer, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Baltimore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore usually gets more rain in July than Newport. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Baltimore or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Baltimore is generally a little warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during autumn. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Newport. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Baltimore during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Newport can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Baltimore. Baltimore is much warmer than Newport in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Newport. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets less rain in January than Newport. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Newport. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Baltimore is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Newport averages at about 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during spring. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Newport. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Baltimore

Baltimore Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)