A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Geneva vs. Saint Thomas for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Geneva or Saint Thomas?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Geneva and Saint Thomas. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: Geneva or Saint Thomas?

Geneva

Geneva is the second largest city in Switzerland and was previously the home for the United Nations Headquarters. The UN is now housed in New York City, but there is still a very strong presence in Geneva. Geneva is not known to be as energetic as some other European cities, but if you search it out, then you're sure to find some interesting places and lively nightlife. It's a very international city, in part because of the heavy UN presence, giving it an interesting feel. It is a French speaking city, and advertisements, signs, and television are all done in French.

Saint Thomas

Saint Thomas is a beautiful island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Together with St. John, St. Croix, and Water Island, it forms the unincorporated territory of the United States. The island is also home to the territorial capital and port of Charlotte Amalie. The island's population is just over 50,000, which is slightly less than half of the territory's total population.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Saint Thomas or Geneva?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Geneva is $288, while the average daily cost in Saint Thomas is $258. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Geneva and Saint Thomas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Geneva $168
    Saint Thomas $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Geneva $336
    Saint Thomas $262
Compare Hotels in Geneva and Saint Thomas

Looking for a hotel in Geneva or Saint Thomas? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Geneva


Hotels in Saint Thomas


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Geneva $11
    Saint Thomas $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Private transfer from Geneva airport (GVA) to Verbier (Minibus): $1,465
  • Private transfers: Geneva airport (GVA) to Interlaken.: $881
  • Private Transfers: Geneva airport (GVA) to Zermatt.: $881
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport(GVA) to Serre Chevalier: $797
  • Private Transfers: Geneva airport (GVA) to Verbier.: $764
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Neuchatel: $528
  • Private transfers: Geneva airport (GVA) to Montreux.: $458
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport(GVA) to Val Thorens: $449
  • Private transfers: Geneva airport (GVA) to Lausanne.: $317
  • Private 1-way Transfer from Geneva Airport (GVA) to Megeve: $305
  • Private 1-way Transfer from Megeve to Geneva Airport (GVA): $304
  • Chamonix: Private Transfer from Geneva with Wi-Fi and Water: $293

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Saint Thomas

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Saint Thomas are as follows:


  • Scooter Rental
    $65
  • Taxi Ride
    $5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint Thomas

Also for Saint Thomas, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Cyril E. King Airport STT to Charlotte Amalie RoundTrip Transfer: $204
  • Exclusive Airport Transfers (up to 4 persons) One-Way: $135
  • PARADISE TAXI & TOURS USVI-St. Thomas- Airport Transfer to Ritz Carlton Elysian : $170
  • PARADISE TAXI & TOURS USVI-St.Thomas-Airport Transfer to Marriott Frenchman Cove: $110
  • Paradise Taxi & Tours USVI- St. Thomas - Airport Transfer to Red Hook Ferry: $160
  • Paradise Taxi & Tours USVI- St.Thomas Airport Transfer to Bolongo Bay / Limetree: $110
  • Paradise Taxi & Tours USVI-St Thomas- Airport Transfer Sapphire / Crystal Cove : $160
  • Prince Taxi & Tours St.Thomas Airport transfer to Redhook Ferry: $200
  • Prince Taxi ST.Thomas Airport transfer to Yacht Haven/Bluebeards: $175
  • Prince Taxi USVI ST.Thomas Airport transfer to Westin : $180
  • Prince Taxi USVI-ST.Thomas Airport Transfer to Ritz Carlton : $180
  • Private Airport Transfer in Luxury Vehicle- St. Thomas, USVI: $179

Is it cheaper to fly into Geneva or Saint Thomas?

Prices for flights to both Saint Thomas and Geneva change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Geneva $105
    Saint Thomas $94

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Geneva.

  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class, Swiss Folklore: $223
  • Taste Geneva – A Full Food Tour of Swiss Flavors by Do Eat Better: $225
  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $228

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Thomas

For Saint Thomas, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Flavors: Cultural Cooking Class, St Thomas, USVI, USA : $81
  • St. John Sail with Bar and Hors d'Oeuvres to Lovango Dinner: $119
  • Sunset & Harbor Lights Dinner Sail from the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove: $119
  • Afternoon Snorkel, Pizza & Sunset Tour departing from St. Thomas & St. John: $120
  • Local Experience, St. John U.S. Virgin Islands Food Tour: $125
  • Pizza Pi Shuttle (Official) - Jet Ski Trip St Thomas: $148
  • St. John PiZZA Pi Snorkel Sail with Beach Stop, Lunch & Open Bar - Westin: $149
  • Christmas Cove and Pizza Pi Happy Hour Sail Tour: $185
  • Turtles, Pizza Pi & Sunset trip: $295

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Geneva $35
    Saint Thomas $60

Tours and Activities in Geneva

Here are a few actual costs in Geneva for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • (KTG210) - Geneva City Tour and Yvoire: $203
  • (KTG353) - Winter Tour: Gruyeres, chocolate tour from Geneva: $200
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $37
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Geneva’s Old Town: $12
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $96
  • Annecy Private Guided Tour from Geneva: $477
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $24
  • Best Intro Tour of Geneva with a Local: $178
  • Best of Geneva City Tour with optional boat cruise: $74
  • Best of Geneva City Tour: International Area and Old Town: $73
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $108
  • Chamonix Day Trip and Geneva City Tour: $196

Tours and Activities in Saint Thomas

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Saint Thomas.

  • Nature and Sightseeing Tour at Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden: $16
  • Children's Treasure Hunt Walking Tour: $25
  • Coral World Ocean Park General Admission Ticket: $29
  • Cruise Ship Shuttle to Ferry going to St. John: $34
  • Rum Tasting Experience in the Old Barrel House: $35
  • Admission Ticket to Coral World & Coki Point Beach with Snorkeling: $40
  • St. Thomas Sightseeing Tour with a Guide: $40
  • Guided Tour of Coral World Ocean Park & Happy Hour: $40
  • St. Thomas Ghost Tour of Historic Charlotte Amalie : $41
  • Prince taxi & Tours St.Thomas Virgin Islands-Island Scenic Tour: $45
  • Guided Kayak Tour from Margaritaville: $48
  • Guided Kayak Tour from Elysian: $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Geneva $26
    Saint Thomas $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Geneva

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Geneva:

  • Geneva Countryside Wine tasting, Aperitif, Castle By E-bike: $175
  • Swiss Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour in Vaud: $262
  • Lavaux, Chexbres, and Valais Wine Tasting Tour: $450
  • Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting by TukTuk: $541


When comparing the travel costs between Geneva and Saint Thomas, we can see that Geneva is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Geneva is in Europe and Saint Thomas is in Caribbean Islands, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Geneva or Saint Thomas?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Saint Thomas. When comparing the sizes of Geneva and Saint Thomas, 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 Geneva or Saint Thomas?

Geneva has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Saint Thomas experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Saint Thomas in the Summer?

Both Saint Thomas and Geneva during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Geneva this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Saint Thomas year-round.

Geneva is cooler than Saint Thomas in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Saint Thomas fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

In Saint Thomas, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Geneva. In the summer, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Thomas. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Thomas receives 287 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Saint Thomas. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Saint Thomas receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Geneva 22°C (71°F) 
    Saint Thomas 29°C (83°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Saint Thomas in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Saint Thomas. Many travelers come to Geneva for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Saint Thomas attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the autumn, Geneva is much colder than Saint Thomas. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Saint Thomas averages at about 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Thomas this time of the year. Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Saint Thomas during autumn. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Thomas receives 235 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Saint Thomas receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Geneva usually receives less rain than Saint Thomas. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Saint Thomas receives 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Geneva 14°C (56°F) 
    Saint Thomas 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Saint Thomas in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Saint Thomas. Many visitors come to Geneva in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Saint Thomas throughout the year.

Geneva can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Geneva is generally much colder than Saint Thomas. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and Saint Thomas fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Thomas. In the winter, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Saint Thomas. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Thomas receives 240 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in January than Saint Thomas. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Saint Thomas receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Geneva 4°C (39°F) 
    Saint Thomas 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Saint Thomas in the Spring?

Both Saint Thomas and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Geneva for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Saint Thomas because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Geneva is much colder than Saint Thomas in the spring. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Saint Thomas fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint Thomas. Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Saint Thomas during spring. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Thomas receives 272 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Geneva usually receives less rain than Saint Thomas. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Saint Thomas receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Geneva 11°C (53°F) 
    Saint Thomas 27°C (80°F)

Typical Weather for Saint Thomas and Geneva

Geneva Saint Thomas
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 26°C (78°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 26°C (78°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 27°C (80°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 28°C (82°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 28°C (83°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 29°C (83°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 29°C (84°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 28°C (83°F) 127 mm (5 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 28°C (82°F) 146 mm (5.7 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 126 mm (4.9 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 26°C (80°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)