A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Naples vs. Tampa for Beaches, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Naples or Tampa?

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 Tampa 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 nature-filled, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

Naples and Tampa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Naples or Tampa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Naples. Although Naples and Tampa are popular destinations, Naples has more sights and attractions for tourists. Naples is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tampa attracts visitors for its big city activities. Naples is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. It is also well known for Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Naples different from Tampa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples
Tampa

Naples is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Naples. 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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Naples
Tampa

Naples is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Naples or Tampa Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Naples or Tampa Better for Resorts?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa is not a resort destination.

Naples is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.


Is Naples or Tampa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tampa is lacking in options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Naples has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Is Naples or Tampa Better for Beaches?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is an amazing beach town to visit for the beach. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Naples. 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.

Tampa is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Is Naples or Tampa Better for Hiking?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Naples is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Tampa?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Naples or Tampa Better for Families?

Naples
Tampa

Both Naples and Tampa are excellent 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.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Is Naples or Tampa Better for Couples?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.


Is Naples or Tampa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Naples. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Naples
Tampa

Naples is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Naples or Tampa a more walkable city?

Naples
Tampa

Naples is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.


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

Should I spend more time in Tampa or Naples?

How long in Naples or Tampa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Naples and Tampa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Naples than in Tampa. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 2-3 days is enough time in Tampa.

Families should spend more time in Naples than Tampa. 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 Tampa. 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 Tampa 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 Tampa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Tampa 2-3

One day in Naples or Tampa?

In Naples, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this relaxing destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Tampa. 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 Tampa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Tampa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Tampa?

Naples is a fun place to experience. In Naples, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Tampa. 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 Tampa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Naples. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the low-key destination of Tampa. This 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.


Which place is cheaper, Tampa 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 Tampa is $179. 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 Tampa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Tampa $85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Tampa $170
Compare Hotels in Naples and Tampa

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Tampa? 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 Tampa


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 Tampa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Tampa $69

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: $103
  • Marco Island to Southwest Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

Also for Tampa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer to/from Tampa Airport (TPA): $70
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port-Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa hotel or address to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tampa hotels: $307
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $102
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Airport to Tampa Bay Cruise Port Private Arrival Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Transfer tо Tampa Bay Cruise Port: $307
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Private Transfer to Tampa hotel/address: $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Tampa?

Prices for flights to both Tampa 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
    Tampa $53

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

For Tampa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Tampa $20

Tours and Activities in Naples

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

  • 10,000 Islands Boat Excursion - 3.5-Hour Dolphins & Shelling Tour: $170
  • 10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour : $160
  • 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour : $59
  • 2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour: $100
  • 2 Hours Cycle Boat Sunset Tour in Marco Island : $59
  • 2Hour Everglades Kayak Safari Adventure Through Mangrove Tunnels: $105
  • 3 Hour Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour: $120
  • 3 Hour Hobie Kayak Adventure In Bonita Springs: $70
  • 3 Hour Natural Florida Everglades Guided Bicycle Eco Tour: $119
  • 4-Hour Guided Kayak Adventure in Bonita Springs: $110
  • 90 Minute Guided Moped Tour in Naples Florida: $69
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $62

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour Private Floating Tiki Boat Tour in Tampa: $59
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $41
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $108
  • Christmas Lights Wonderland Deluxe Golf Cart Guided Tour in Tampa: $49
  • Discover Tampa with Local Stories from a Virtual Tour: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Tampa $26

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tampa:

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200
  • Tampa Heights Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Naples and Tampa, we can see that Naples is more expensive. And not only is Tampa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tampa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tampa 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 Naples would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Naples than you might in Tampa.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Naples Expensive? and Is Tampa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Naples or Tampa?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Tampa, 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.