A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Miami vs. Saint Petersburg for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Miami or Saint Petersburg?

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 Saint Petersburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a exciting, diverse, and bustling beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Miami and Saint Petersburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Saint Petersburg?

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

How is Miami different from Saint Petersburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Petersburg is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Saint Petersburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Miami has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Petersburg. 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 Miami or Saint Petersburg Better for Nightlife?

Miami is terrific for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

Miami is a must-see 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Miami or Saint Petersburg Better for Music?

Miami is terrific for live music. However, Saint Petersburg is not a live music destination.

Miami is known as a music capital around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Saint Petersburg is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Saint Petersburg Better for Resorts?

Miami is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Miami is a perfect 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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Is Miami or Saint Petersburg Better for Beaches?

Miami and Saint Petersburg are fantastic choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Miami is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

The beaches in Saint Petersburg are among the best in 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 Miami or Saint Petersburg?

Miami is terrific for shopping. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Miami. 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.

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 Miami or Saint Petersburg Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Saint Petersburg.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Petersburg is very family-friendly. 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 Miami or Saint Petersburg Better for Couples?

Both Miami and Saint Petersburg are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Saint Petersburg is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Miami or Saint Petersburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Miami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the 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 Miami or Saint Petersburg Better for Students?

Miami is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

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

Miami 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 Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

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 Miami or Saint Petersburg a more walkable city?

Miami is great for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination 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.

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 Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Petersburg or Miami?

How long in Miami or Saint Petersburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Miami or Saint Petersburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Petersburg.

Families should spend more time in Miami than Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg. 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 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 Miami.

One day in Miami or Saint Petersburg?

People visit Miami because there is so much to do. 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 beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fun-filled destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Saint Petersburg?

People visit Miami because there is so much to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Petersburg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Saint Petersburg?

Miami 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.

Saint Petersburg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Saint Petersburg. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Miami or Saint Petersburg?

Miami 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 find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Saint Petersburg. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Miami and Saint Petersburg, we can see that Miami is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Saint Petersburg?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of Saint Petersburg. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or Saint Petersburg in the Summer?

Both Saint Petersburg and Miami during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Miami because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year.

Miami is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the summer, Miami often gets more sunshine than Saint Petersburg. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Petersburg receives 265 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets less rain in July than Saint Petersburg. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Saint Petersburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Saint Petersburg. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Miami is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Miami in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Saint Petersburg averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Saint Petersburg during autumn. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Petersburg receives 234 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Saint Petersburg. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Miami or Saint Petersburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Miami as well as Saint Petersburg. Many travelers come to Miami for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Miami is generally a little warmer than Saint Petersburg. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 67°F (20°C), and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the winter, Miami often gets more sunshine than Saint Petersburg. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Petersburg receives 200 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Saint Petersburg. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Saint Petersburg in the Spring?

Both Saint Petersburg and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Miami in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches during these months.

Miami is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Petersburg during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Petersburg receives 299 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Miami usually receives more rain than Saint Petersburg. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.

Typical Weather for Saint Petersburg and Miami