A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Memphis vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Attractions

Should you visit Memphis or Napa Valley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Napa Valley, 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.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Memphis and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Memphis or Napa Valley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Memphis than Napa Valley. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Memphis is very popular for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Napa Valley attracts visitors for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Napa Valley is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Memphis or Napa Valley?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Memphis is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Memphis. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Memphis or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Napa Valley is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Memphis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Is Memphis or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Napa Valley

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Memphis and Napa Valley.

The nightlife in Memphis has something for everybody. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

Napa Valley offers plenty to do in the evening. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

Is Memphis or Napa Valley Better for Music?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Memphis is terrific for its music scene. However, Napa Valley is not a live music destination.

Memphis has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Napa Valley is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great area for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Napa Valley?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great area for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Memphis and Napa Valley are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Memphis offers lots of family activities. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.


Is Memphis or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Napa Valley has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Memphis or Napa Valley Better for Students?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Memphis is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Napa Valley is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Napa Valley is not popular with students.

Is Memphis or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Memphis is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.


Is Memphis or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Memphis
Napa Valley

Memphis is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Memphis is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

Napa Valley is not a walkable city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Memphis Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Memphis or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Napa Valley due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Memphis, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Memphis than Napa Valley 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 Memphis.


  • How many days in Memphis or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Memphis or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the laid-back city of Memphis. Most people visit for the live music. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Napa Valley, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Memphis or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the soulful destination of Memphis. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Napa Valley, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Napa Valley has to offer.


Five days in Memphis or Napa Valley?

The laid-back city of Memphis offers food and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Memphis or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Memphis. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the live music. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napa Valley. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Napa Valley. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Memphis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $167, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $288. 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 Memphis and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Napa Valley? 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 Memphis


Hotels in Napa Valley


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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Memphis 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
    Memphis $43
    Napa Valley $62
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

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


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour: $72
  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure - Memphis: $44
  • Beale Street & Sun Studio: Private Half-Day Walking Tour: $160
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Best of Memphis Walking Tour: $149
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Party Experience - Public: $35
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Private Party Experience: $430
  • Elvis Presley's Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis: $111
  • Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour: $150
  • From Tupelo Elvis Presley's Upbringing Tour: $102
  • Guided Memphis City Tour with Riverboat Cruise along Mississippi River: $85

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Memphis:

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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

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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Napa Valley?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Napa Valley, 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 Memphis or Napa Valley?

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 Memphis or Napa Valley in the Summer?

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

Memphis is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Memphis usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Memphis is around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Memphis in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Memphis. In the autumn, Memphis often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Napa Valley. Many visitors come to Memphis in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Memphis can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Memphis is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 40°F (5°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Napa Valley during winter. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Memphis usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Napa Valley. Most visitors come to Memphis for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the natural beauty.

Memphis is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In the spring, Memphis often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Memphis receives a lot of rain in the spring. Memphis usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Memphis

Memphis Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)