A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Florence vs. San Diego for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Florence or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Florence or San Diego, 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 iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a fun-filled, hip, and dynamic coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Florence and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or San Diego?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Florence. San Diego is bigger than Florence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Florence is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. San Diego is well known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo.

How is Florence different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is renowned for its historical sights. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

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.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Is the Food Better in Florence or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a great coastal city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in San Diego has something for everybody. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

San Diego has a thriving music scene. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Florence is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, San Diego makes a nice vacation spot. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

The beaches in San Diego are among the best in the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Florence is renowned for its old town. However, San Diego 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a great coastal city for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Florence or San Diego?

Florence is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego 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.

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

Florence and San Diego 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.

San Diego is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Florence or San Diego Better for Students?

For students, both Florence and San Diego 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.

San Diego is a very popular city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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

Florence is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Florence or San Diego a more walkable city?

Florence is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Florence Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Florence?

How long in Florence or San Diego?

In either Florence or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Florence, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than San Diego 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 Florence.

One day in Florence or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Florence. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

The coastal city of San Diego offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the alluring destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and food around the iconic city of Florence. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Diego, 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 San Diego?

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches 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 coastal 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Florence and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Florence or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Florence and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Florence are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Florence is a little warmer than San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. Florence usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during summer. Florence gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Florence usually receives more rain than San Diego. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Florence or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Florence during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Florence is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Florence in October average around 16°C (61°F), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Florence often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Florence gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Florence and San Diego. Most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Florence is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 7°C (45°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Florence usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Florence gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Florence usually receives more rain than San Diego. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Florence or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Florence as well as San Diego. The spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Florence is cooler than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the spring, Florence often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Florence gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Florence