A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Florence vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Florence or Los Angeles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Florence or Los Angeles, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a multicultural, sprawling, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Florence and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Florence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Florence is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Florence is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Los Angeles is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood.

How is Florence different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Florence or Los Angeles?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Florence and Los Angeles.

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great city for its theatre productions. However, Florence is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Florence is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Florence or Los Angeles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Florence and Los Angeles can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Many restaurants in Los Angeles have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Los Angeles is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Los Angeles. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Florence is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

Florence is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Los Angeles draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Florence or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Los Angeles draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Florence and Los Angeles are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Los Angeles is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Students?

For students, both Florence and Los Angeles are world-class places to visit.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Los Angeles is a very popular city for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Is Florence or Los Angeles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Florence and Los Angeles both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Florence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Florence or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Florence is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Florence. Most people explore the city on foot.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Florence Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Florence?

How long in Florence or Los Angeles?

Both Florence and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Los Angeles than Florence. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Florence, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

One day in Florence or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the artistic city of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Florence or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the artistic destination of Florence. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city 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.

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Florence or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the iconic city of Florence. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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

A week in Florence or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Florence and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Florence much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Florence is in Europe and Los Angeles is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Florence would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florence 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Florence.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Florence Expensive? and Is Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Florence or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Florence and Los Angeles, 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 Florence or Los Angeles?

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 Florence or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Florence and Los Angeles. Many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Florence is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Florence in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In July, Florence usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Florence or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Florence as well as Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Florence is generally cooler than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 16°C (61°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Florence usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Florence are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Florence is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In January, Florence usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Florence or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Florence during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In the spring, Florence is cooler than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Florence in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Florence usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Florence