A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Naples vs. Boston for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Naples or Boston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Naples or Boston, 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.

Naples

Naples is a authentic, gritty, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Naples and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or Boston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Boston than Naples. While Naples is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Naples is more popular for its food and shopping. Boston is more touristy than Naples and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Naples is well known for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

How is Naples different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Naples or Boston?

Boston is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Boston on the map. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Naples is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Naples is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Naples or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Naples is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Naples, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Naples and Boston.

Naples is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Naples is not a live music destination.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Naples is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Boston?

Naples is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Naples is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Naples does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Naples does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Naples does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Naples does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Couples?

Naples is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Naples is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Naples. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for students. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

It's common for students to visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Naples. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Is Naples or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Naples is very walkable. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Naples Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Naples?

How long in Naples or Boston?

In either Naples or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Naples because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Naples 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 Boston.

One day in Naples or Boston?

Naples is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Boston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Naples or Boston?

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

Boston is a great place to explore. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Naples or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Naples or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic big city of Naples. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the traditional big city of Boston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Naples and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Naples much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Naples is in Europe and Boston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Naples would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Naples 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Naples.

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

Which is Bigger, Naples or Boston?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Boston, 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 Naples or Boston?

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 Naples or Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and Boston. Many travelers come to Naples for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Naples is around the same temperature as Boston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Naples in July average around 23°C (74°F), and Boston averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Naples, it's very sunny this time of the year. Naples usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during summer. Naples gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Naples usually receives less rain than Boston. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Naples or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Naples as well as Boston. Many visitors come to Naples in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Naples is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 17°C (63°F), and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Naples often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Boston. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Naples receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Naples usually gets more rain in October than Boston. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Boston can be very cold. Naples is much warmer than Boston in the winter. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

Naples usually receives less sunshine than Boston during winter. Naples gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Naples. In January, Naples usually receives more rain than Boston. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Naples or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Naples during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Naples because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In the spring, Naples is a little warmer than Boston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Naples in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Boston averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Naples often gets less sunshine than Boston. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

Naples usually gets less rain in April than Boston. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Naples