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

Should you visit Florence or Washington?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Florence or Washington, 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Florence and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or Washington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington than Florence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Washington is very popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Florence attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Florence is more touristy than Washington and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Washington is famous for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Florence different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Washington on the map. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Is Florence or Washington Better for Theater?

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

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Florence is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Florence and Washington 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 Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Florence or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Washington 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 Washington has something for everybody. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington Better for Music?

Washington is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Florence or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Florence is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Florence is revered around 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Florence or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Florence or Washington?

If you're looking to go shopping, Florence and Washington both offer plenty of excellent spots.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Florence or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Florence does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Washington. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Florence does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Florence or Washington Better for Families?

Washington is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Washington is very family-friendly. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington Better for Couples?

Florence is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Florence has plenty to offer. 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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Florence or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Florence. 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Florence or Washington Better for Students?

For students, both Florence and Washington are terrific 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.

Washington is a very popular city for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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

Washington is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Florence or Washington a more walkable city?

Florence and Washington are terrific when it comes to walkability.

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

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Washington or Florence?

How long in Florence or Washington?

Both Florence and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Washington than Florence. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Florence, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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

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

With museums and nightlife around the iconic city of Florence, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Washington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Florence, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Washington?

Florence, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Washington, 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 Washington?

Florence is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Florence or Washington?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Florence and Washington, 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 Washington?

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 Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington and Florence are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Florence is generally around the same temperature as Washington. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 25°C (77°F), and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Washington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. Florence usually receives more sunshine than Washington during summer. Florence gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Florence usually receives less rain than Washington. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Florence or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington and Florence during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

Florence is around the same temperature as Washington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In the autumn, Florence often gets less sunshine than Washington. Florence gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in October than Washington. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Washington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Florence and Washington. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Washington. In the winter, Florence is much warmer than Washington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Florence in January average around 7°C (45°F), and Washington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

Florence usually receives less sunshine than Washington during winter. Florence gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Florence usually receives less rain than Washington. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Florence or Washington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Florence as well as Washington. Many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Washington in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Florence is generally around the same temperature as Washington. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 14°C (57°F), and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. In the spring, Florence often gets less sunshine than Washington. Florence gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in April than Washington. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Washington and Florence