A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bar Harbor vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bar Harbor and Napa Valley 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.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a picturesque, relaxed, and quaint coastal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Bar Harbor and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Napa Valley than Bar Harbor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Napa Valley is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bar Harbor is more popular for its resorts, beaches, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Bar Harbor is well known for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park. Napa Valley is well known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. Also, Napa Valley is famous for Louis M. Martini Winery.

How is Bar Harbor different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a moderate area for its sights and museums. However, Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Napa Valley have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Bar Harbor has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

Is Bar Harbor or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for nightlife and partying.

Napa Valley offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Bar Harbor doesn't offer many options. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Is Bar Harbor or Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Bar Harbor is a coastal town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

Bar Harbor has a few great resort options. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is Bar Harbor or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Bar Harbor is a coastal town with good options for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Bar Harbor. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Bar Harbor or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its hiking trails.

Napa Valley is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Bar Harbor offers some nice hiking trails. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.

Is the Shopping Better in Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Both Bar Harbor and Napa Valley are great shopping destinations.

Bar Harbor is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.

Napa Valley is well-known for its shopping. 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 Bar Harbor or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Both Bar Harbor and Napa Valley are notable to visit with kids.

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly coastal town. 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 Bar Harbor or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for romance. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its romantic activities.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it 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.

Bar Harbor makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

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

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.

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 Bar Harbor or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Bar Harbor
Napa Valley

Bar Harbor is a great coastal town for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Bar Harbor is a very walkable destination. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Bar Harbor?

How long in Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

Couples should spend more time in Napa Valley than Bar Harbor. 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 Napa Valley than Bar Harbor 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 Napa Valley.


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

One day in Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

Bar Harbor is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic area of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Napa Valley, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

Bar Harbor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This coastal town 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this area.


Five days in Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

Because Bar Harbor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Napa Valley, a popular area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

Since Bar Harbor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Bar Harbor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bar Harbor is $202, 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 Bar Harbor and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bar Harbor $117
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bar Harbor $234
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Bar Harbor and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor


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: Bar Harbor Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bar Harbor $35
    Napa Valley $183

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 Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Bar Harbor 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
    Bar Harbor $57
    Napa Valley $62
Typical Food Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • West Street Cafe (for 4)
    $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bar Harbor $39
    Napa Valley $28
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bar Harbor

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


  • Acadia National Park Entrance Fee
    $25
  • Sunset Cruise (for 4)
    $96

Tours and Activities in Bar Harbor

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bar Harbor are as follows:

  • 3 Hour Private Tour: Insiders tour of Acadia National Park: $675
  • 4 Hour Private Tour: Acadia, Fjord, Gardens & Mansions: $775
  • 6 Hour Private Tour: Ultimate Acadia Tour with Lobster Lunch: $1,000
  • 90-minute Ghost Walking Tour in Bar Harbor: $30
  • Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour: $299
  • Acadia Half Day Private Bike Tour: $548
  • Acadia Mount Desert Island Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Acadia NP & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour: $21
  • Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $25
  • Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Acadia National Park Small Group Guided Tour: $279
  • Acadia's Ocean Path Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15

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
    Bar Harbor $30
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bar Harbor and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley is more expensive. And not only is Bar Harbor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bar Harbor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor.

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


Which is Bigger, Bar Harbor or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bar Harbor. When comparing the sizes of Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor or Napa Valley in the Summer?

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

In July, Bar Harbor is generally around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Bar Harbor average around 69°F (21°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bar Harbor 69°F (21°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

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

Bar Harbor is much colder than Napa Valley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bar Harbor averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bar Harbor 48°F (9°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Napa Valley in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bar Harbor. In the winter, Bar Harbor is much colder than Napa Valley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bar Harbor in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 46°F (8°C).

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bar Harbor 18°F (-8°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Napa Valley in the Spring?

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

In April, Bar Harbor is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Bar Harbor average around 43°F (6°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bar Harbor 43°F (6°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor Napa Valley
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)