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

Should you visit Naples or San Francisco?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Naples or San Francisco, 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 fascinating, historic, and authentic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a one-of-a-kind, scenic, and beautiful coastal city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Naples and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or San Francisco?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in San Francisco than Naples. While Naples is larger than San Francisco, San Francisco has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Francisco is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Naples attracts visitors for its nightlife and historical sights. San Francisco is more touristy than Naples and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also well known for The Golden Gate Bridge. 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 San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Francisco 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 San Francisco on the map. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

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 San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Naples is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Naples is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Naples and San Francisco both to be amazing 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 San Francisco have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

Is Naples or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Naples is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Naples has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Naples or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep San Francisco active and fun. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Naples is not a live music destination.

Is Naples or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is well known for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Francisco. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or San Francisco Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Naples to see the historical old town. 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 Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Is Naples or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Naples is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or San Francisco?

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

San Francisco is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco 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 Francisco is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 Francisco Better for Couples?

Naples and San Francisco are both superb to visit as a couple.

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.

San Francisco is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

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

Naples and San Francisco are superb places to visit 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.

San Francisco is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is Naples or San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is well known for students. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

San Francisco is a great coastal city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

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

San Francisco 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 San Francisco can get you around easily. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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 San Francisco a more walkable city?

Naples and San Francisco both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Naples?

How long in Naples or San Francisco?

Both Naples and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Naples. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco 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 San Francisco.

One day in Naples or San Francisco?

Naples is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of San Francisco. 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 Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco 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 San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic big city of Naples. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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's hard to know how much time to spend in San Francisco. 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 Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Naples. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the one-of-a-kind big city of San Francisco. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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 Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Naples or San Francisco?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of San Francisco. When comparing the sizes of Naples and San Francisco, 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 Francisco?

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 Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Naples during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Naples because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

Naples is a little warmer than San Francisco in the summer. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Naples usually gets more rain in July than San Francisco. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and San Francisco. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Naples this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Naples is around the same temperature as San Francisco. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Naples in October average around 17°C (63°F), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Naples usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Naples or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Naples as well as San Francisco. Many travelers come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to San Francisco in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In January, Naples is generally cooler than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 8°C (47°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Naples receives a lot of rain in the winter. Naples usually gets more rain in January than San Francisco. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Naples in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to San Francisco for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Naples is around the same temperature as San Francisco in the spring. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Naples usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Naples