A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Naples vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Naples or Chicago?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Naples or Chicago, 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 colorful, fascinating, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and beaches.

Naples and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or Chicago?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Naples. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Naples attracts visitors for its historical sights. Chicago is more touristy than Naples and is known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Naples is famous for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

How is Naples different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago 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 Chicago on the map. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

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 Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its shows and theatre. However, Naples is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Chicago. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Naples is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Naples and Chicago both to be terrific destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Naples is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Many restaurants in Chicago have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Chicago just to party. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Many people head to Naples for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

In Chicago you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Naples is not a live music destination.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Naples is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Naples. 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.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Chicago?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Chicago is a world class destination for shoppers. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Naples. 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.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago 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 Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Naples does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Naples does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago has Christmas markets worth visiting. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Naples does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago 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.

Chicago is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

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 Chicago Better for Couples?

Naples is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Naples frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Naples is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Naples or Chicago Better for Students?

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

Chicago is a great destination for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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 Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago 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 Chicago can get you around easily. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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 Chicago a more walkable city?

Naples and Chicago both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Naples?

How long in Naples or Chicago?

In either Naples or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago 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 Chicago.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago 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 Chicago.

One day in Naples or Chicago?

Because Naples is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Chicago. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Naples or Chicago?

Because Naples is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Naples has to offer.

Chicago is a great place to explore. 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 Chicago?

Naples is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Naples. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the diverse big city of Chicago. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Naples and Chicago, we can see that Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Naples or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Chicago, 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 Chicago?

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 Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Naples for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Naples is around the same temperature as Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Naples. Naples usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago during summer. Naples gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In July, Naples usually receives less rain than Chicago. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Naples or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Naples during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Naples because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In the autumn, Naples is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Naples in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Naples often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Naples. Naples usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and Chicago. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Naples this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chicago. In January, Naples is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 8°C (47°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Naples usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during winter. Naples gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Naples usually receives more rain than Chicago. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Naples or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Naples as well as Chicago. Many travelers come to Naples for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Chicago in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Naples is a little warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In the spring, Naples often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Naples usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Naples