A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Naples vs. Saint Petersburg for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Naples or Saint Petersburg?

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 Saint Petersburg 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Naples and Saint Petersburg: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Naples or Saint Petersburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Naples than Saint Petersburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Naples is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums & sights. Naples is well known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Also, Naples is famous for Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach. Saint Petersburg is well known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

How is Naples different from Saint Petersburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Saint Petersburg. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

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 the Food Better in Naples or Saint Petersburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Naples and Saint Petersburg.

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, Saint Petersburg makes for a great culinary experience. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Is Naples or Saint Petersburg Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Both Naples and Saint Petersburg have notable 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.

Saint Petersburg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Naples or Saint Petersburg Better for Resorts?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Naples is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Naples. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.


Is Naples or Saint Petersburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

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

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Saint Petersburg Better for Beaches?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Both Naples and Saint Petersburg are considered to be amazing beach destinations.

Naples is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Saint Petersburg offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Is Naples or Saint Petersburg Better for Hiking?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Naples is very good for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Naples. 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Saint Petersburg?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

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

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.

Saint Petersburg is a great destination for shopping. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Is Naples or Saint Petersburg Better for Families?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Both Naples and Saint Petersburg are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Naples. 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Is Naples or Saint Petersburg Better for Couples?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Both Naples and Saint Petersburg are superb 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 Saint Petersburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.


Is Naples or Saint Petersburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Naples is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Naples is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

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

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Naples and Saint Petersburg.

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 Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Is Naples or Saint Petersburg a more walkable city?

Naples
Saint Petersburg

Naples is very good for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.


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

Should I spend more time in Saint Petersburg or Naples?

How long in Naples or Saint Petersburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Naples or Saint Petersburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Naples due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Petersburg.

Families should spend more time in Naples than Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Saint Petersburg 2-4

One day in Naples or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing destination of Naples. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the relaxing beach town of Naples. If you have a weekend, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Saint Petersburg 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.

Five days in Naples or Saint Petersburg?

Naples is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Petersburg. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Saint Petersburg?

Naples is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the underrated destination of Saint Petersburg. This coastal city 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg is $204. 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 Saint Petersburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Saint Petersburg $127
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Saint Petersburg $254
Compare Hotels in Naples and Saint Petersburg

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Saint Petersburg? 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 Saint Petersburg


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 Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Saint Petersburg $47

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: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Saint Petersburg?

Prices for flights to both Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $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

Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Saint Petersburg $13

Tours and Activities in Naples

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

  • 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour : $63
  • 2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour: $100
  • 3 Hour Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour: $120
  • 6-Hour Fishing on Deep Sea Split Charter with Experienced Captain: $287
  • 90 Minute Guided Moped Tour in Naples Florida: $69
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $69
  • Avi's Premium Dolphin Tour by Jet Ski: $275
  • Backwater Adventure's CraigCat Tours of the 10,000 Islands: $130
  • Best Family Activity - Trike Tour Of Naples - All Ages Fun!: $69
  • Best of Marco Island Tour: $79
  • Clear Kayak Guided Tours in Naples: $79
  • Clear Kayak Sunset & Light Tour - Bonita Springs / Ft Myers Beach: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Saint Petersburg $41

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


When comparing the travel costs between Naples and Saint Petersburg, 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 Saint Petersburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Naples or Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Saint Petersburg, 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.