A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Naples vs. San Diego for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Naples or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Naples or San Diego, 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 authentic, gritty, and colorful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Naples and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego than Naples, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Diego is more popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Naples is known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. San Diego is more touristy than Naples and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Naples is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

How is Naples different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Naples or San Diego.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Naples can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Naples is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Naples, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Naples and San Diego.

Naples is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is well known for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Naples is not a live music destination.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Naples is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Naples is not a resort destination.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

The beaches in San Diego are among the best in the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Naples is great for its old town. However, San Diego does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Naples is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or San Diego?

Naples is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Naples is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego 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.

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Naples. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Naples or San Diego Better for Students?

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

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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

Naples is great for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Naples can get you around easily. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Naples or San Diego a more walkable city?

Naples is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Naples?

How long in Naples or San Diego?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Naples than San Diego 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.

One day in Naples or San Diego?

People visit Naples because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Naples has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of San Diego. 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 San Diego?

People visit Naples because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, 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 San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Naples. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 San Diego?

Naples is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of San Diego. This coastal 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, 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 San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Naples or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Naples and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Naples or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Naples during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Naples for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Naples is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 23°C (74°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Naples. In the summer, Naples often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego. Naples gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

Naples usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and San Diego. Many visitors come to Naples in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Naples is cooler than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Naples usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during autumn. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Naples usually receives more rain than San Diego. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Naples or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Naples as well as San Diego. Most visitors come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Naples is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Naples in January average around 8°C (47°F), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the winter, Naples often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Naples gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Naples receives a lot of rain in the winter. Naples usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Naples because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In April, Naples is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 13°C (55°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Naples usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during spring. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Naples usually receives more rain than San Diego. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Naples