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

Should you visit Baltimore or Norfolk?

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

Baltimore

Baltimore is a colorful, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a maritime, authentic, and blue collar city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Norfolk?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore than Norfolk. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Baltimore is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium. Norfolk is famous for its naval base and military presence.

How is Baltimore different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Baltimore offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.


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

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Baltimore makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Baltimore or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Baltimore know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Norfolk?

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a great destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Baltimore is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.


Is Baltimore or Norfolk Better for Families?

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Baltimore is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Baltimore or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Baltimore is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Baltimore or Norfolk Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a popular place for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.


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

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a great destination for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Baltimore. 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 mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Baltimore or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Norfolk

Baltimore is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Baltimore or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Baltimore than Norfolk because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 1-2 days is enough time in Norfolk.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore than Norfolk 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 Norfolk? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Norfolk 1-2

One day in Baltimore or Norfolk?

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 city of Norfolk. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Norfolk has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Baltimore or Norfolk?

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 blue collar destination of Norfolk. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Norfolk?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the maritime city of Norfolk. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Baltimore or Norfolk?

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.

Norfolk is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Norfolk 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 Norfolk is $166. 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 Norfolk in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Norfolk $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Norfolk $168
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Norfolk

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Norfolk? 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 Norfolk


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 Norfolk Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Norfolk $54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $64
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $56
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Port to Baltimore Airport: $42
  • San Francisco Airport to Oakland: Round Trip Private Transfer: $88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Norfolk?

Prices for flights to both Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $49
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.

  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $76
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $119
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $140
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Norfolk $14

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

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

  • Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park: $5.00
  • Downtown Baltimore In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Audio Tour: $13
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $15
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $17
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Sights and Sips Private City Sightseeing Cruise: $31
  • Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $31

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

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

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $84
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $84
  • Mother's Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk: $103
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $103

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Norfolk $10

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
  • Chesapeake Region Wine Tour: $171

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Downtown Norfolk: $30


When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Norfolk?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

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 Baltimore or Norfolk in the Summer?

Both Norfolk and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Baltimore is generally around the same temperature as Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. It's quite rainy in Baltimore. In July, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Norfolk in the Autumn?

Both Norfolk and Baltimore during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year.

Baltimore is cooler than Norfolk in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Norfolk fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets less rain in October than Norfolk. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Norfolk in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Norfolk. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Norfolk. It's quite cold in Baltimore in the winter. In the winter, Baltimore is much colder than Norfolk. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Norfolk averages at about 39°F (4°C).

Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than Norfolk during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Norfolk in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Norfolk. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the activities around the city.

In April, Baltimore is generally cooler than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. In the spring, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Norfolk. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets more rain in April than Norfolk. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Baltimore

Baltimore Norfolk
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)