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

Should you visit Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cape Cod and Napa Valley. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a wealthy, maritime, and beautiful beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Napa Valley. Although Cape Cod and Napa Valley are popular destinations, Napa Valley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Napa Valley is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cape Cod attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Napa Valley is famous for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also well known for Louis M. Martini Winery.

How is Cape Cod different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is adequate for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Napa Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Napa Valley, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Cape Cod or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Napa Valley for the nightlife scene. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Cape Cod is a beach destination with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Cod or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Cape Cod is a great beach destination for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Cape Cod attract visitors from all over. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is great for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. 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.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Cod and Napa Valley both offer plenty of very good spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Napa Valley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Cape Cod or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Cape Cod is a great beach destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Cape Cod or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for romance.

Napa Valley is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

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

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

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 Cape Cod or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Napa Valley

Cape Cod is a beach destination with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Cod or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cape Cod due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

Couples should spend more time in Napa Valley than Cape Cod. 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 Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

The beautiful area of Napa Valley offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach destination offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Napa Valley is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this area makes for a great vacation. 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, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Napa Valley is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This area offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Cape Cod?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $183, 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 Cape Cod and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod


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: Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $60
    Napa Valley $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    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 Cape Cod and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley is more expensive. And not only is Cape Cod much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cape Cod would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod.

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



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod or Napa Valley?

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 Cape Cod or Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Cape Cod is cooler than Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 68°F (20°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Cape Cod during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

In the autumn, Cape Cod is cooler than Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Cod in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Cape Cod often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Napa Valley in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. In January, Cape Cod is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 31°F (-0°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley during winter. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Napa Valley. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the spring for the natural beauty.

Cape Cod is much colder than Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Cod often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Cape Cod

Cape Cod Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)