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

Should you visit Bangor or Sonoma?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangor and Sonoma can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangor

Bangor is a friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Bangor and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bangor or Sonoma?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sonoma. Although Bangor and Sonoma are popular destinations, Sonoma has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sonoma is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bangor attracts visitors for its museums and small town charm. Sonoma is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also well known for Buena Vista Winery. Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town.

How is Bangor different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangor or Sonoma?

Bangor
Sonoma

Bangor is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bangor. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


Is the Food Better in Bangor or Sonoma? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangor
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Sonoma have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Bangor or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Sonoma offers plenty to do in the evening. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Bangor or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Bangor
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

In Sonoma, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Bangor or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Bangor
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Sonoma attract visitors from all over. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is Bangor or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Sonoma is a popular spot for hiking. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangor or Sonoma?

Bangor
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.


Is Bangor or Sonoma Better for Families?

Bangor
Sonoma

Both Bangor and Sonoma are nice to visit with kids.

Bangor is a family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Sonoma is a family-friendly town. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is Bangor or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Bangor
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Sonoma is a great county for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Bangor or Sonoma Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bangor
Sonoma

Bangor is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.


Is Bangor or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Bangor
Sonoma

Bangor is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Sonoma is not a walkable town. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

For even more information, also check out Is Bangor Worth Visiting? and Is Sonoma Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Bangor?

How long in Bangor or Sonoma?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sonoma than Bangor 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 Sonoma.


  • How many days in Bangor or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangor 1-2 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Bangor or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bangor. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sonoma. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bangor or Sonoma?

Bangor is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sonoma is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Bangor or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangor. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sonoma. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bangor or Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Bangor. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Sonoma. This county offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sonoma or Bangor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $197, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $219. 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 Bangor and Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Bangor or Sonoma? 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 Bangor


Hotels in Sonoma


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: Bangor Hotel Prices and Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Sonoma $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $69
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangor or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma and Bangor 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
    Bangor $54
    Sonoma $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Sonoma $16
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $49
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $125
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $126
  • Create your own wine blend experience: $140
  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $300

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Sonoma $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Sonoma

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

  • San Francisco: Half-Day Wine Tour with 2 Tastings Included: $189
  • Sonoma Food & Wine Tour: $235


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


Which is Bigger, Bangor or Sonoma?

Bangor has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Bangor and Sonoma, 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 Bangor or Sonoma?

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 Bangor or Sonoma in the Summer?

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

Bangor is around the same temperature as Sonoma in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 69°F (21°C) in July, and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Bangor usually gets more rain in July than Sonoma. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangor 69°F (21°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Bangor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Bangor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sonoma for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bangor is much colder than Sonoma. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangor in October average around 48°F (9°C), and Sonoma averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Bangor usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Bangor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangor 48°F (9°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Sonoma in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bangor. In January, Bangor is generally much colder than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Bangor average around 18°F (-8°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Bangor usually gets less rain in January than Sonoma. Bangor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Bangor or Sonoma in the Spring?

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

Bangor is much colder than Sonoma in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangor averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Bangor usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Bangor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangor 43°F (6°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Bangor

Bangor Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)