A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Naples vs. Boulder for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Naples or Boulder?

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 Boulder 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 peaceful, nature-filled, and relaxing beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Boulder

Boulder is a nature-filled, biker-friendly, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Naples and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or Boulder?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Naples. Although Naples and Boulder are both popular with visitors, Naples has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Naples is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Boulder is known for its skiing, music, and hiking. Naples is more touristy than Boulder and is known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. It is also home to Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach. Boulder is popular for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

How is Naples different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Naples is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Boulder for snow skiing. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Naples is not a skiing destination.

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

Naples is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

Naples offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

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

Naples is a great beach town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Naples has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Both Naples and Boulder have good vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Naples. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

Boulder has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder 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 Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Naples is not a live music destination.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Resorts?

Naples is a great beach town for its luxury resorts. However, Boulder 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.

Boulder is not a resort destination.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Boulder 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.

Boulder is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Naples is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

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.

Boulder is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Boulder is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Boulder. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Boulder?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Naples and Boulder.

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.

Boulder is a great destination for shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Families?

Naples is a great beach town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Naples is very family-friendly. 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.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Couples?

Naples is a great beach town for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Naples is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Boulder is a good beach town for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples and Boulder are both good 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 Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Is Naples or Boulder Better for Students?

Boulder is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Naples is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Naples is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Naples and Boulder.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Naples or Boulder a more walkable city?

Naples and Boulder are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Boulder is somewhat walkable. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Naples?

How long in Naples or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Naples and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Naples than in Boulder. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

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

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

One day in Naples or Boulder?

In Naples, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Boulder. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Naples or Boulder?

In Naples, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Naples has to offer.

Boulder is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Naples or Boulder?

Naples is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Naples has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boulder. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Naples or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Naples. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the biker-friendly destination of Boulder. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Naples or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Boulder, 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.