A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Nashville for Food, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Nashville?

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 Destin and Nashville can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxing beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Nashville

Nashville is a eclectic, southern, and country music lovers city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Nashville travel costs.

Destin and Nashville: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Destin or Nashville?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nashville. Although Destin and Nashville are both popular with visitors, Nashville has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nashville is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Destin is known for its resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Destin is more touristy than Nashville and is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Nashville is popular for its influence in country music and its many live music venues. It is also home to The Grand Ole Opry.

How is Destin different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Destin or Nashville?

Destin
Nashville

Nashville is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Nashville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Destin or Nashville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Destin
Nashville

Nashville is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Nashville makes for a great culinary experience. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Nashville Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Nashville

Nashville is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Nashville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Nashville Better for Music?

Destin
Nashville

Nashville is terrific for live music. However, Destin is not a live music destination.

Nashville is a world class music destination. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Destin is not a live music destination.


Is Destin or Nashville Better for Resorts?

Destin
Nashville

Destin is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

In Destin, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

With a selection of resorts, Nashville makes a nice vacation spot. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Is Destin or Nashville Better for Beaches?

Destin
Nashville

Destin is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Nashville is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Destin attract visitors from all over. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Nashville is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Nashville?

Destin
Nashville

Destin is a beach town with good options for shopping. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

If you're looking to go shopping, Nashville has some nice offerings. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.


Is Destin or Nashville More Beautiful?

Destin
Nashville

Destin is a beach town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Nashville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Nashville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Destin or Nashville Better for Families?

Destin
Nashville

Destin is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Destin is a very family-friendly destination. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

Is Destin or Nashville Better for Couples?

Destin
Nashville

Both Destin and Nashville are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Nashville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.


Is Destin or Nashville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Nashville

Nashville is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Nashville is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Nashville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Destin
Nashville

Neither Destin or Nashville offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Public transit is quite limited in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Destin or Nashville a more walkable city?

Destin
Nashville

Neither Destin or Nashville are walkable places.

Destin is not a walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

Nashville is not a very walkable beach town. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.


For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Nashville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nashville or Destin?

How long in Destin or Nashville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Nashville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Nashville. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nashville.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nashville than Destin 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 Nashville.


  • How many days in Destin or Nashville? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Nashville 2-3

One day in Destin or Nashville?

You'll find food and shopping around the beach town of Destin. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nashville. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or Nashville?

You'll find shopping and food around the peaceful destination of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nashville is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, 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 Destin or Nashville?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful beach town of Destin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nashville. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Destin or Nashville?

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the country music lovers destination of Nashville. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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 Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Nashville or Destin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Destin Prices
    USA Prices
    Nashville Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Destin $229
    Nashville $202

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $229, while the average daily cost in Nashville is $202. 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 Destin and Nashville in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Nashville $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Nashville $198
Compare Hotels in Destin and Nashville

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Nashville? 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 Destin


Hotels in Nashville


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: Destin Hotel Prices and Nashville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Nashville $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nashville

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

  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $60
  • Airport to Downtown Private Transfer: $70
  • Nashville Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Nashville: $90
  • Transfer from John C Tune Airport-JWN: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Nashville?

Prices for flights to both Nashville and Destin 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
    Destin $89
    Nashville $72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

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

  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nashville

For Nashville, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Gulch Walking & Tasting Food Tour: $98
  • 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour: $106
  • East Nashville Walking Food Tour with 5+ Tastings: $106
  • Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Food Tour: $189

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Nashville $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

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


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

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

  • Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $37
  • 10-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Adventure: $224
  • 2-Stop Snorkeling and Dolphin Cruise from Destin: $50
  • 3 Hour Crab Island Sandbar Cruise : $89
  • 3 Hour Crab Island and Harbor Tour from Destin Non-Private: $70
  • 3 hour Crab Island Adventure with Cruise Destin Bay: $75
  • 5-Hour Deep Sea Family Fishing Adventure: $112
  • Buccaneer Pirate Cruise in Destin: $55
  • Clear Kayak Glow Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach: $80
  • Crab Island Boat Tour – Half Day in Destin: $69
  • Crab Island Dolphin & Sunset Cruise – 3-Hour Tour: $65
  • Crab Island Dolphin Jet Ski Adventure : $227

Tours and Activities in Nashville

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

  • Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Factory Tour: $8.74
  • Music History Guided Walking Tour: $10
  • Legends of Country Music Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Hatch Show Print Shop Guided Tour: $23
  • Haunted History Walking Tour with Guide: $25
  • Nashville's Wildest Honky Tonk Party Bus | Public Tour (21+): $25
  • Nightmare & Hauntings of Music City Nashville Ghost Tour: $27
  • Madame Tussauds Admission Ticket: $30
  • Guided Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $30
  • True Crime Walking Tour from Mr. E's Crimecast: $30
  • Ryman Auditorium Self-Guided Tour: $30
  • Belle Meade Historic Mansion Tour: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Nashville $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Nashville

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nashville:

  • Music City Pub Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl: $33
  • Seeking Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Live Music Bar Crawl with Local Artists: $35
  • Music History and Moonshine Pub Crawl: $35
  • Revelry Tours Nashville Bordellos, Burlesque, and Blood Tour: $35
  • Murder Mystery Interactive Party Game & Pub Crawl: $38
  • Nashville's Haunted Spirits Murder & True Crime Pub Crawl: $38
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Brewery Trolley Tour: $45
  • Nashville Bar Crawl: Guided Pub Crawl with Drinks Discounts: $48
  • Nashville's Speakeasy Secrets: True Crime Tasting Pub Crawl: $55


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


Which is Bigger, Destin or Nashville?

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Nashville, 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 Destin or Nashville?

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 Destin or Nashville in the Summer?

Both Nashville and Destin during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nashville in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Destin is around the same temperature as Nashville in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nashville fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in July than Nashville. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Nashville 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Destin or Nashville in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Nashville. Many visitors come to Destin in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nashville for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Destin is a little warmer than Nashville. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Nashville averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than Nashville. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Nashville 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Destin or Nashville in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Destin as well as Nashville. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Nashville because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nashville can be very cold. In January, Destin is generally much warmer than Nashville. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Nashville fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin usually gets more rain in January than Nashville. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Nashville 38°F (4°C)

Should I visit Destin or Nashville in the Spring?

Both Nashville and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Nashville this time of year.

Destin is a little warmer than Nashville in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Nashville fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nashville. In April, Destin usually receives less rain than Nashville. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Nashville 62°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Nashville and Destin

Destin Nashville
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 52°F (11°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 62°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 81°F (27°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 52°F (11°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 43°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)