A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. San Francisco for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Gatlinburg or San Francisco?

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 Gatlinburg and San Francisco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a scenic, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Gatlinburg and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or San Francisco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Gatlinburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Francisco is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, and resorts. Gatlinburg is well known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. San Francisco is well known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge.

How is Gatlinburg different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for skiing. However, San Francisco is not a skiing destination.

Head to Gatlinburg for some great skiing and other winter activities. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

San Francisco is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gatlinburg or San Francisco?

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

Travelers visit San Francisco from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Gatlinburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is very good for theatre. However, Gatlinburg is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in San Francisco, take in a show. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Gatlinburg is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Gatlinburg or San Francisco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Francisco has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

Gatlinburg has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is very good for live music. However, Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is great for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is renowned for hiking. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Gatlinburg is a popular spot for hiking. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or San Francisco?

San Francisco is renowned for shopping. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in San Francisco. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Gatlinburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Couples?

Both Gatlinburg and San Francisco are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Gatlinburg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

San Francisco is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

San Francisco is very popular with students. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

San Francisco has a great public transit system. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Gatlinburg has a few public transit options. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Is Gatlinburg or San Francisco a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg and San Francisco are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Gatlinburg is very walkable. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

San Francisco is a very walkable city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

For even more information, also check out Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting? and Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Gatlinburg and San Francisco, we can see that San Francisco is more expensive. And not only is Gatlinburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Gatlinburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gatlinburg 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 Francisco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Francisco than you might in Gatlinburg.

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

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and San Francisco, 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 Gatlinburg or San Francisco?

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 Gatlinburg or San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Gatlinburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking are the main draw to Gatlinburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Gatlinburg is generally much warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 81°F (27°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. In July, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or San Francisco in the Autumn?

Both San Francisco and Gatlinburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Francisco in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Gatlinburg is around the same temperature as San Francisco in the autumn. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and San Francisco. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Gatlinburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Gatlinburg is much colder than San Francisco. Typically, the winter temperatures in Gatlinburg in January average around 40°F (5°C), and San Francisco averages at about 50°F (10°C).

Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or San Francisco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as San Francisco. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Gatlinburg is generally a little warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 62°F (17°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in April than San Francisco. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Gatlinburg