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

Should you visit Miami or Norfolk?

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 Norfolk 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Miami and Norfolk: 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
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Miami or Norfolk?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Miami than Norfolk, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Norfolk is known for its museums. Miami is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Miami different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

Miami
Norfolk

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

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Miami or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Miami is a world class party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Miami or Norfolk Better for Music?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or Norfolk Better for Resorts?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Norfolk Better for Beaches?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Norfolk?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk 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 Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.


Is Miami or Norfolk Better for Families?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Miami or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options 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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Miami or Norfolk Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a popular place for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options 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.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.


Is Miami or Norfolk Better for Students?

Miami
Norfolk

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

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

Norfolk is not popular with students.

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

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a popular place for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options 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 mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Miami or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Miami
Norfolk

Miami is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.


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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Miami?

How long in Miami or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Miami or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Norfolk 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 Norfolk.

Families should spend more time in Miami than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Norfolk 1-2

One day in Miami or Norfolk?

Because Miami is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Norfolk, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This city 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 Norfolk?

You'll find live music and food around the diverse big city of Miami. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Norfolk. 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 Norfolk?

Miami is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Norfolk is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Norfolk. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Miami or Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Miami. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the maritime destination of Norfolk. 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, Norfolk or Miami?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $206, while the average daily cost in Norfolk is $166. 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 Norfolk in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Norfolk $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Norfolk $168
Compare Hotels in Miami and Norfolk

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Norfolk? 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 Norfolk


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 Norfolk Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Norfolk $54
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:

  • All Inclusive Miami Pass with Airport Transfer: $119
  • Door to Door Shuttle Transfer from Miami to Orlando: $80
  • Door to Door Transfers Miami - Tampa - Miami: $90
  • Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Ride with Roundtrip Transfer: $70
  • Everglades National Park & Airboat tour with Roundtrip Transfer: $70
  • From Miami - Private Transfer from Miami Hotels to Airport: $265
  • From Miami Airport - Private Transfer to Hotels and Homes: $265
  • From Miami Beach: Roundtrip Bimini Ferry and Hotel Transfers: $289
  • From Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show & Bus Transfer: $55
  • From Everglades Wildlife Show, Airboat & Bus Transfer: $40
  • Hotel's To Port & Airport Transfer: $95
  • MIA: Transfer to Miami Beach, Aventura, Coral Gables: $150

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Norfolk?

Prices for flights to both Norfolk 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 $41
    Norfolk $49
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.

  • Little Havana- Family Friendly Walking Food Tour : $52
  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $64
  • Wynwood Street Art, Culture, Donuts & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Little Havana Street Food Tour with Enthusiastic Guide: $69
  • Cuban Food Tour Of Little Havana: $70
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Taste of Little Havana Food Tour in Miami with Cuban Street Food: $75
  • Little Havana Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Food Tour of Miami's South Beach: $79
  • South Beach Miami Food & Fun Art Deco Food Tour : $79
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $140
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    Norfolk $14

Tours and Activities in Miami

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

  • Haunted a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour : $6.05
  • Haunted Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $7.33
  • Miami Beach: Self-Guided Walking Tour With Audio Guide: $7.33
  • Sights of Downtown a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Miami: $8.82
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Little Havana: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Miami by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Audio Tour of Downtown, South Beach, and Wynwood: $11
  • Miami Marlins Baseball Game Ticket at loandepot Park: $11
  • Giant Fish Feeding Experience: $12
  • Wynwood Walls Admission Ticket : $12
  • Wynwood Walls Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $13

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

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

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $84
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $84
  • Mother's Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk: $103
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $103

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Norfolk $10
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:

  • Miami Bar Crawl: $25
  • Miami Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Miami Beach Bar Crawl: Art Deco & Neon Lights with Historian: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Downtown Norfolk: $30


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Miami and Norfolk, we can see that Miami is more expensive. And not only is Norfolk much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Norfolk would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Norfolk 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 Norfolk.

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


Which is Bigger, Miami or Norfolk?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Miami and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

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 Norfolk in the Summer?

Both Norfolk 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 Norfolk because of the family-friendly experiences.

Miami is around the same temperature as Norfolk in the summer. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Norfolk fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during summer. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. It's quite rainy in Miami. In July, Miami usually receives around the same amount of rain as Norfolk. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Miami or Norfolk in the Autumn?

Both Norfolk 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. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year.

In the autumn, Miami is much warmer than Norfolk. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Miami in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Norfolk averages at about 62°F (16°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the autumn, Miami often gets more sunshine than Norfolk. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Norfolk. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Miami or Norfolk in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Norfolk. In January, Miami is generally much warmer than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 67°F (20°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during winter. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Miami usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C)

Should I visit Miami or Norfolk in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Miami as well as Norfolk. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Miami is much warmer than Norfolk in the spring. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Norfolk fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the spring, Miami often gets more sunshine than Norfolk. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Norfolk. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Miami

Miami Norfolk
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)