A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Saint Petersburg for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Saint Petersburg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a cultural, beautiful, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a fun-filled, underrated, and relaxed coastal city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

La Paz and Saint Petersburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in La Paz than Saint Petersburg. While Saint Petersburg is larger than La Paz, La Paz has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Paz is famous for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also well known for Balandra Beach. Saint Petersburg is famous for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

How is La Paz different from Saint Petersburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint Petersburg and La Paz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both La Paz and Saint Petersburg.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Saint Petersburg. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Saint Petersburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

Foodies will find both La Paz and Saint Petersburg both to be superb destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit La Paz. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Saint Petersburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

Evening events are nice in both La Paz and Saint Petersburg.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

If luxury resorts are your style, both La Paz and Saint Petersburg have nice options.

With a selection of resorts, La Paz makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Saint Petersburg has a few great resort options. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.


Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

La Paz is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

Both La Paz and Saint Petersburg are considered to be amazing beach destinations.

La Paz is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Saint Petersburg offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

La Paz is great for shopping. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Saint Petersburg offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.


Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg Better for Families?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

Both La Paz and Saint Petersburg are superb to visit with kids.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Saint Petersburg. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg Better for Couples?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is notable for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

La Paz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

La Paz is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.


Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

La Paz is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its public transit.

While La Paz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Is La Paz or Saint Petersburg a more walkable city?

La Paz
Saint Petersburg

La Paz is great for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

La Paz is very walkable. The city is very walkable.

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Petersburg or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

It's fun to spend time in either La Paz or Saint Petersburg. In our opinion, La Paz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in La Paz than Saint Petersburg. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Saint Petersburg 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Saint Petersburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Saint Petersburg 2-4

One day in La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the cultural destination of La Paz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Saint Petersburg. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful city of La Paz. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

La Paz is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Petersburg. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

La Paz is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxed destination of Saint Petersburg. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Saint Petersburg or La Paz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $118, while the average daily cost in Saint Petersburg is $204. 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 La Paz and Saint Petersburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Saint Petersburg $127
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Saint Petersburg $254
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Saint Petersburg

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Saint Petersburg? 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 La Paz


Hotels in Saint Petersburg


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Saint Petersburg $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz Airport: Private Roundtrip Transfer to La Ventan: $259
  • Private Transfer from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas: $241
  • La Paz Int. Airport (LAP): Private Transfer to La Paz hotels: $174
  • La Paz Airport to Costa Baja Private Roundtrip Transfer: $89
  • Roundtrip Transfer to La Paz International Airport: $73
  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $53

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

Prices for flights to both Saint Petersburg and La Paz 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
    La Paz $38
    Saint Petersburg $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

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

  • 4 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $82

Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $13
    Saint Petersburg $13

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $133
  • Balandra & San Rafaelito: Sightseeing & Snorkelling: $135
  • Balandra Beach and City Tour: $128
  • Balandra Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $135
  • Can-Am X3 Turbo Adventure: Cabo Desert Trails & Beach Ride: $291
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $91
  • Cruise Date Delight! Swim with Sea Lions! Apr-02: $186
  • Espíritu Santo Island snorkel and sightseeing tour on Small Group: $169
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $12
    Saint Petersburg $41


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

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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of La Paz. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Saint Petersburg, 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 La Paz or Saint Petersburg?

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 La Paz or Saint Petersburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Saint Petersburg. Many visitors come to La Paz in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, La Paz is generally around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 30°C (86°F), and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the summer, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Saint Petersburg. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Petersburg receives 265 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Saint Petersburg. La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Saint Petersburg. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Saint Petersburg in the Autumn?

Both Saint Petersburg and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the shopping scene.

La Paz is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 27°C (80°F) in October, and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Saint Petersburg during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Petersburg receives 234 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Saint Petersburg. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Saint Petersburg in the Winter?

Both Saint Petersburg and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to La Paz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year.

In the winter, La Paz is a little warmer than Saint Petersburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Paz in January average around 18°C (65°F), and Saint Petersburg averages at about 59°F (15°C).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the winter, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Petersburg. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Petersburg receives 200 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Saint Petersburg. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Saint Petersburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Saint Petersburg. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches.

In April, La Paz is generally around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 23°C (73°F), and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Petersburg during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Petersburg receives 299 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Saint Petersburg. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Saint Petersburg and La Paz

La Paz Saint Petersburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)