A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Naples vs. Boston for Attractions, Beaches, Families, and Food

Should you visit Naples or Boston?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Naples and Boston can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Naples

Naples is a relaxing, peaceful, and nature-filled beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Boston

Boston is a historic, traditional, and classic 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. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Naples and Boston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Naples or Boston?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boston than Naples, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Naples is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Naples is well known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail.

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?

Naples
Boston

Boston is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Boston has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Naples is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most visitors spend most of their time at the beach, on a rainy day you can check out the town's art museums, history museums, or local spots such as the Palm Cottage.


Is Naples or Boston Better for Theater?

Naples
Boston

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Naples is not a theatre destination.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. 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
Boston

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Naples and Boston.

Naples has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is a favorite around town, but you'll also find plenty of Italian food. Everything from casual to fine dining is available with many local favorites to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. 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?

Naples
Boston

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Naples has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.


Is Naples or Boston Better for Music?

Naples
Boston

Boston is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boston. 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 Resorts?

Naples
Boston

Naples is notable for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Naples to choose from. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and a range of prices to choose from. Most have pools and many have oceanfront views with golf facilities available. Many of the major brands such as Marriott are found here.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Boston

Naples is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Naples. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both available in the area, in part because of the impressive artificial reefs that have been constructed. Snorkeling is available at Tigertail Beach, Clam Pass, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Naples or Boston Better for Beaches?

Naples
Boston

Naples is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Naples offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. White sand beaches and calm Gulf waters make this an ideal beach destination. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite beach spot in the area, but you should also check out Naples Municipal Beach which is where you'll find the Naples Pier. If you want a more natural setting, head to Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Naples or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Naples
Boston

Boston is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Naples does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Boston is one of the most recognized in 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 does not have a historic old town.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Hiking?

Naples
Boston

Naples is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Naples offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with state parks and nature reserves where you can explore and enjoy a scenic hike. There are also greenways and coastal paths nearby.

Boston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Boston?

Naples
Boston

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Naples and Boston.

Naples has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find shopping centers, outlet malls, and plenty of retail space around town. Some of the favorite shopping spots are the Mercato, Coastland Center, and Waterside Shops. For souvenirs and beach items head to Tin City Waterfront Shops.

Boston is a great destination for shopping. 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?

Naples
Boston

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Naples does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. 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?

Naples
Boston

Boston is an excellent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Naples does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a lively atmosphere around its 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?

Naples
Boston

Boston is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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 is a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find relaxing beaches, nice parks, plenty of playgrounds, and even the Golisano Childrens Museum for rainy days. There are also nature centers with great walks as well as gardens and wildlife viewpoints.

Is Naples or Boston Better for Couples?

Naples
Boston

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. Beautiful beaches and relaxing spas make this a favorite couples destination. Golf, high end restaurants and plenty of romantic activities will ensure you have the anniversary trip or honeymoon to remember.

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
Boston

Naples and Boston are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Naples is a good beach town to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

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


Is Naples or Boston Better for Students?

Naples
Boston

Boston is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Naples is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular city 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.

Naples is not popular with students.

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

Naples
Boston

Boston is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Naples is lacking in options for its public transit.

Boston has a great public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is generally limited in Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.

Is Naples or Boston a more walkable city?

Naples
Boston

Boston is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Naples is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is relatively walkable, but to fully explore the region you'll need your own car.


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. In our opinion, Boston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Boston than Naples. In general, 2-5 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.


  • How many days in Naples or Boston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Boston 3-5

One day in Naples or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Naples. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 beaches, 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 beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. 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 nightlife and food when visiting the peaceful destination of Naples. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boston or Naples?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Naples is $226, while the average daily cost in Boston is $255. 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 Naples and Boston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Boston $166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Boston $332
Compare Hotels in Naples and Boston

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Boston? 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 Naples


Hotels in Boston


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: Naples Hotel Prices and Boston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Boston $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Naples

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

  • Naples to Southwest Florida Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $102

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

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


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Downtown to Boston Airport (BOS): $69
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Airport (BOS) to City Downtown: $69
  • Round trip transfer in private vehicle from Boston downtown-to the Airport (BOS): $138
  • Round trip Airport Transfer: Logan - Boston: $300
  • Private transfer: Boston to Boston Airport (BOS): $96
  • Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Boston: $959
  • Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $160
  • Private Transfer from Boston to Flynn Cruiseport Boston: $116
  • Private Transfer from Boston City to Boston (BOS) Airport: $103
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Boston (BOS) Airport to Boston City: $103
  • Private Transfer between Boston Logan Airport and Boston City: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Boston?

Prices for flights to both Boston and Naples 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
    Naples $70
    Boston $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

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

  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

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

  • AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $49
  • North End Pizza Tour with 3 Slices and Cannoli: $55
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $68
  • Boston Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $77
  • Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $79
  • Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $81
  • Ultimate Boston Food Tour: North End & Boston Public Market: $89
  • Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $90
  • Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $108
  • Local Gems of the South End Neighborhood Food Tour: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Boston $33

Tours and Activities in Naples

For Naples, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Self-Guided Island Tour - CLEAR or Standard Kayak or Board - Bonita Springs : $30
  • Naples Sightseeing Boat Tour: $51
  • Trike Tour of Naples Florida - Fun Activity Downtown Naples: $55
  • Segway Tour of Downtown Naples FL - Explore The Fun Way: $55
  • Naples, Florida - Segway Electric Moped Tour - Family Fun: $55
  • Naples, Florida: Family Friendly Guided Electric Trike Tour: $55
  • Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour - Explore Naples Florida: $55
  • Naples, FL: Group Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour: $55
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $55
  • Gulf of Mexico Sunset Cruise from Naples: $55
  • Segway Tour Of Naples Florida Fun Family Experience: $55
  • 2 Hours Cycle Boat Sunset Tour in Marco Island : $59

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

  • "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $25
  • 1 If By Land Walking Tours: History Walking Tour of Boston: $45
  • 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with Harbor Cruise Option: $46
  • 1-Day Tour to Portland-Maine from Boston: $175
  • 1692 Salem Day Tour: $32
  • 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $32
  • 2 Hour North End 'Little Italy' Walking Tour : $35
  • 2-Hour Beacon Hill True Crime Expert Guided Tour: $35
  • 90-Minute Boston Harbor Sunset Sightseeing Cruise: $43
  • A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $423
  • A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $216

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Boston $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Naples

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

  • Epic Naples Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $35
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
  • Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
  • Boston Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Naples and Boston, we can see that Boston 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 Naples Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Naples or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Naples. 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.