A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Newport for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Cape Cod or Newport?

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 Newport. 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. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Cape Cod and Newport: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Cape Cod and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Cape Cod attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street.

How is Cape Cod different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cape Cod
Newport

Newport is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Newport. 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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cape Cod
Newport

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Cod and Newport can be an enjoyable experience.

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Cape Cod or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Newport

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

If you're looking for night time activities Newport has a few options to choose from. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

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 Newport Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Newport

Cape Cod is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Cod or Newport Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Newport

Cape Cod and Newport both offer high quality beaches.

Many people visit Cape Cod for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Is Cape Cod or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Cape Cod
Newport

Newport is great for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Is Cape Cod or Newport Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Newport

Cape Cod is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Newport is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Newport?

Cape Cod
Newport

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Cod and Newport both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Cape Cod or Newport Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Newport

Both Cape Cod and Newport are high quality family-friendly destinations.

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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Cape Cod or Newport Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Newport

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

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

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

Cape Cod
Newport

Newport is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

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

Is Cape Cod or Newport a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Newport

Newport is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

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.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Newport or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Newport?

In either Cape Cod or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than Newport because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

Families should spend more time in Newport than Cape Cod. 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 Cape Cod. 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 Newport 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 Newport.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Cape Cod or Newport?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Newport offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Cape Cod or Newport?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Newport is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newport, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cape Cod or Newport?

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newport, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cape Cod or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Newport is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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, Newport 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 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 Cape Cod and Newport in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod


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: Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $45

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.
    Cape Cod $27
    Newport $17

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 Newport

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

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Newport $14


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



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod or Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Newport. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during summer. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Newport. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Cape Cod or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Newport. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cape Cod is around the same temperature as Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Cod in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. In the autumn, Cape Cod often gets less sunshine than Newport. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in October than Newport. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. Cape Cod can be very cold during winter. In January, Cape Cod is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 31°F (-0°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Cape Cod usually receives less sunshine than Newport during winter. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. In January, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Newport. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Cape Cod during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Cape Cod is cooler than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. In the spring, Cape Cod often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in April than Newport. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Cape Cod

Cape Cod Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)