A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. New Bern for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Miami or New Bern?

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 Miami and New Bern can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a glamorous, exciting, and diverse beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Miami travel costs.

New Bern

New Bern is a laid back, quaint, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See New Bern travel costs.

Miami and New Bern: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Miami or New Bern?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Miami and New Bern are both popular with visitors, Miami has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while New Bern is known for its museums and attractions and small town charm. Miami is more touristy than New Bern and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. New Bern is popular for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is Miami different from New Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or New Bern?

Miami
New Bern

New Bern is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

New Bern is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Miami or New Bern? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

New Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Is Miami or New Bern Better for Nightlife?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, New Bern is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Miami is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

New Bern doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

Is Miami or New Bern Better for Music?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is an unbeatable place for live music. However, New Bern is not a live music destination.

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

New Bern is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or New Bern Better for Resorts?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, New Bern is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Miami is a great choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

New Bern is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or New Bern Better for Beaches?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, New Bern is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Miami. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

New Bern is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or New Bern?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting New Bern. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.


Is Miami or New Bern Better for Families?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Miami is a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is Miami or New Bern Better for Couples?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is well known for romance. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

New Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Is Miami or New Bern Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is a popular place for backpackers. However, New Bern is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

New Bern is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not popular with backpackers in part because it's a small town that most people breeze through on their way to the beach.


Is Miami or New Bern Better for Students?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is a popular place for students. However, New Bern is not popular with students.

Miami is popular with students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

New Bern is not popular with students.

Is Miami or New Bern Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is a popular place for its public transit. However, New Bern is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Public transit is quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

Is Miami or New Bern a more walkable city?

Miami
New Bern

Miami is well known for its walkability. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

New Bern is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is New Bern Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New Bern or Miami?

How long in Miami or New Bern?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Miami or New Bern to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in New Bern than Miami because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 1-2 days is enough time in New Bern.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than New Bern 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 Miami.


  • How many days in Miami or New Bern? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    New Bern 1-2

One day in Miami or New Bern?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Even though New Bern is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Miami or New Bern?

Miami is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Bern. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or New Bern?

Miami is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

New Bern is a fun place to experience. New Bern is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Miami or New Bern?

Miami is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach city offers something for everyone.

New Bern is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, New Bern or Miami?

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

  • Miami Prices
    USA Prices
    New Bern Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Miami $258
    New Bern $169

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $258, while the average daily cost in New Bern is $169. 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 Miami and New Bern in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $154
    New Bern $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $308
    New Bern $152
Compare Hotels in Miami and New Bern

Looking for a hotel in Miami or New Bern? 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 Miami


Hotels in New Bern


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: Miami Hotel Prices and New Bern Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    New Bern $34
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • Delray Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $112
  • Group Van Transfers Across Miami: $152
  • Luxury Private Transfer in Miami and Miami Fort Lauderdale: $130
  • Luxury Transfer From Port of Miami to Miami and Fort Lauderdale: $138
  • MIA: Transfer to Miami Beach, Aventura, Coral Gables: $150
  • Miami & Fort Lauderdale - Port & Airport Transfer Service: $200
  • Miami & Ft. Lauderdale Airport Transfer & Transportation Service: $140
  • Miami Airport Private Transfer To Miami Beach: $160
  • Miami Airport, Beach Hotels and Port of Miami Private Transfer: $99
  • Miami Beach: Roundtrip Bimini Ferry & Hotel Transfers: $299
  • Miami Everglades Airboat Roundtrip Transfer & Free Watertaxi: $70
  • Miami MIA International Airport Private Transfer, Pick up service: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or New Bern?

Prices for flights to both New Bern and Miami 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
    Miami $72
    New Bern $70
Typical Food Prices in Miami

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Miami:


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

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

  • Art Deco Food Tour with Private Cigar & Rum Upgrade: $35
  • Historical Walking Food Tour in Calle 8: $50
  • 2-Hour Little Havana Food Tour with 6+ Tastings: $53
  • 2-Hour Express Little Havana & Cuban Culture Food Tour in Miami: $54
  • South Beach Guided Food Tour with Authentic Tastings: $60
  • Handcrafted Donuts & Street Art: Wynwood's Most Unique Food Tour: $65
  • Miami : Best Street Food Tour With A Local Guide: $66
  • Little Havana Food Tour: Discover Iconic Cuban Cuisine in Miami: $69
  • 3-Hour Little Havana Food Tour with Full Authentic Cuban Meal: $75
  • Miami Mosaic Signature Food Tour: $75
  • South Beach Food Tour: $75
  • Little Havana 3-Hour Food Tour: $83

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    New Bern $26

Tours and Activities in Miami

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

  • Self Guided Walking Tour at Miami: $1.14
  • Jetski & ATV Adventure Combo in Miami: $2.00
  • Miami Beach: Personalized Self-Guided App Tour: $5.00
  • Bus & Boat Ultimate Sightseeing Combo Tour: $6.16
  • Little Havana Smartphone guided Audio App Solo Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Private and Exclusive Jet Car Experience: $9.24
  • Luxury Jet Car Experience on Biscayne Bay: $9.24
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Miami: $9.31
  • Wynwood Neighborhood Art Walk Self-Guided Tour of Murals: $9.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Miami by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Sights of Downtown a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Haunted Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    New Bern $30
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • An Epic Bar Crawl in Miami Florida: $15
  • #1 Miami Pub Crawl + Clubbing Experience: $21
  • Miami Pub Crawl + Clubbing Experience: $26
  • Wynwood Pub Crawl with Drinks & VIP Club Entry: $27
  • Miami Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Guided Bar Crawl with Drinks Discounts and Club Entry: $29
  • Miami Wynwood Pub Crawl: Complimentary Drinks & Club Entry: $30
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • BigBeach Bar Crawl - South Beach Bar Hop and Club Experience: $40
  • Pedal Pub Wynwood Art District Party Bike Pub Crawl: $48
  • Miami Pedal Pub: Wynwood Arts District Party Bike Pub Crawl: $58
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63


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

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


Which is Bigger, Miami or New Bern?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of New Bern. When comparing the sizes of Miami and New Bern, 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 Miami or New Bern?

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 Miami or New Bern in the Summer?

Both New Bern and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to New Bern because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Miami is around the same temperature as New Bern in the summer. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and New Bern fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Bern. It's quite rainy in Miami. In July, Miami usually receives less rain than New Bern. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 6.6 inches (169 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    New Bern 80°F (27°C)

Should I visit Miami or New Bern in the Autumn?

Both New Bern and Miami during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Miami because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to New Bern this time of year.

In the autumn, Miami is a little warmer than New Bern. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Miami in October average around 78°F (26°C), and New Bern averages at about 65°F (18°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets more rain in October than New Bern. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    New Bern 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Miami or New Bern in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and New Bern. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New Bern for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Miami is generally much warmer than New Bern. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 67°F (20°C), and New Bern fluctuates around 44°F (7°C).

New Bern receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Miami usually receives less rain than New Bern. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    New Bern 44°F (7°C)

Should I visit Miami or New Bern in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Miami as well as New Bern. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to New Bern in the spring for the small town charm.

Miami is a little warmer than New Bern in the spring. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and New Bern fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

Miami usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as New Bern. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    New Bern 62°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for New Bern and Miami

Miami New Bern
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 69°F (21°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 76°F (25°C) 5 inches (126 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (169 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 79°F (26°C) 7.6 inches (192 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 65°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)