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

Should you visit Florence or Seattle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Florence or Seattle, 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 alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a laid-back, bustling, and progressive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Florence and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle than Florence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Florence is known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Florence is more touristy than Seattle and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Seattle is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle.

How is Florence different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Florence on the map. 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 a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Florence is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Florence is not a theatre destination.

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

Florence is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is a great 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 Seattle has something for everybody. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a great city for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

Seattle has a thriving music scene. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

Seattle has a beach worth visiting. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Florence is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is a great city for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Florence or Seattle?

Florence is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for Families?

Florence and Seattle are both good destinations for the whole family.

Florence offers lots of family activities. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for Couples?

Florence is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Florence is a very popular city to visit 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Florence or Seattle Better for Students?

Florence is renowned for students. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Florence and Seattle 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.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Florence or Seattle a more walkable city?

Florence is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Florence?

How long in Florence or Seattle?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Seattle 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 Seattle?

In Florence, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

In Florence, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer.

Seattle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Florence or Seattle?

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Seattle is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Florence or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. In Florence, you'll find museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Seattle is a great place to explore. 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 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Florence or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Florence and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Florence or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Florence during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Florence because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In the summer, Florence is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Florence in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Florence. In the summer, Florence often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle. Florence gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Florence and Seattle. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Florence this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Florence is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 16°C (61°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Florence usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Florence gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Florence usually receives more rain than Seattle. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Florence or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Florence as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Seattle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Florence is a little warmer than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Florence often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Florence gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Florence usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Florence are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Florence in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Florence is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Florence in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. Florence usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during spring. Florence gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Florence usually receives more rain than Seattle. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Florence