A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Naples vs. Panama City for Beaches, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Naples or Panama City?

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 Panama City 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. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Panama City

Panama City is a cosmopolitan, fun-filled, and active beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Naples and Panama City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Naples or Panama City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Naples. Although Naples and Panama City 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, beaches, and hiking, while Panama City is known for its nightlife and music. Panama City is more touristy than Naples and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Naples is popular for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. It is also home to Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach.

How is Naples different from Panama City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples
Panama City

Naples is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Naples
Panama City

Naples is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Naples. 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.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Is Naples or Panama City Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Panama City

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

Panama City has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

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 Panama City Better for Music?

Naples
Panama City

Panama City is a beach town with good options for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Naples is not a live music destination.


Is Naples or Panama City Better for Resorts?

Naples
Panama City

Naples is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Naples is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Is Naples or Panama City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Panama City

Naples is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Naples has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Panama City Better for Beaches?

Naples
Panama City

Naples is an amazing beach town to visit for the beache. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

The beaches in Naples are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Panama City attract visitors from all over. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.


Is Naples or Panama City Better for Hiking?

Naples
Panama City

Naples is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Naples has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Panama City?

Naples
Panama City

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

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.

Panama City is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Is Naples or Panama City Better for Families?

Naples
Panama City

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

Panama City is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Panama City Better for Couples?

Naples
Panama City

Both Naples and Panama City are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Naples makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Is Naples or Panama City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Panama City

Naples is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Naples or Panama City Better for Students?

Naples
Panama City

Panama City 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 Panama City. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Naples is not popular with students.


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

Naples
Panama City

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Naples and Panama City.

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 Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

Is Naples or Panama City a more walkable city?

Naples
Panama City

Naples is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

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

Should I spend more time in Panama City or Naples?

How long in Naples or Panama City?

Both Naples and Panama City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Panama City than in Naples. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 3-7 days is enough time in Panama City.

Families should spend more time in Naples than Panama City. 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 Panama City. 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.

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


  • How many days in Naples or Panama City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Panama City 3-7

One day in Naples or Panama City?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the nature-filled beach town of Naples. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Panama City. 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.


A weekend in Naples or Panama City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Naples. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Panama City 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 Panama City?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the nature-filled beach town of Naples. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Panama City. 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.

A week in Naples or Panama City?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Naples. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cosmopolitan destination of Panama City. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Panama City 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 Panama City is $224. 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 Panama City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Panama City $128
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Panama City $256
Compare Hotels in Naples and Panama City

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Panama City? 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 Panama City


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 Panama City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Panama City $48

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Panama City?

Prices for flights to both Panama City 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
    Panama City $66

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Panama City $19

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: $54
  • Gulf of Mexico Sunset Cruise from Naples: $58
  • 2 Hours Cycle Boat Sunset Tour in Marco Island : $59
  • 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour : $59
  • Naples Florida: Downtown Electric Mix & Match Tour: $60
  • Naples Florida: Downtown Electric Moped Tour: $60
  • Naples Florida: Downtown Electric Trike Tour: $60
  • Manatee Sightseeing and Wildlife Boat Tour: $60
  • Kayak Tour Adventure Marco Island and Naples Florida: $60
  • Guided Island Eco Tour - CLEAR or Standard Kayak or Board : $60
  • Naples Fl, Paddleboard Mangrove Forest Tour: $60

Tours and Activities in Panama City

Here are a few actual costs in Panama City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Capt. Zach's Adventures: $73
  • 2 Hour Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour in Panama City Beach, Fl: $65
  • 2 Hour Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour in Shell Island: $65
  • 2 Hour Dolphin and Snorkeling Experience at Panama City: $90
  • 3 Hour Cruise, Snorkel, Swim/float Sandbar - tandem tiki option: $80
  • 90 min Cruise at Lower Grand Lagoon : $54
  • Cypress Springs Eco Adventure: $110
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $35
  • Famous Private Center Console Boat Tours of Panama City Beach: $295
  • Jet Ski Adventure Tour: $149
  • Lit on the Lagoon Glow and Tiki Bar Cruise Tour in Panama City: $65
  • Mermaid Experience and Snorkel in Panama City Beach: $129

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Panama City $56


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


Which is Bigger, Naples or Panama City?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Panama City, 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.