A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Napa Valley for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit New Orleans or Napa Valley?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Napa Valley 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.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a festive, vibrant, and energetic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the food, nightlife, and live music.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

New Orleans and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Napa Valley?

You'll generally find more things to do in New Orleans than Napa Valley. New Orleans is bigger than Napa Valley, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New Orleans is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Napa Valley is more popular for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Napa Valley and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Also, New Orleans is famous for The French Quarter. Napa Valley is well known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Napa Valley and New Orleans. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Orleans or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Napa Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both New Orleans and Napa Valley both to be world-class destinations.

Many restaurants in New Orleans have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Eat your way through Napa Valley, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for nightlife.

New Orleans is a must-see party destination. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Napa Valley offers plenty to do in the evening. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley Better for Music?

New Orleans is terrific for its music scene. However, Napa Valley is not a live music destination.

New Orleans has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Napa Valley is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Napa Valley does not have a historic old town.

New Orleans is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Napa Valley does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Napa Valley is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Napa Valley is a area with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly area. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley Better for Students?

New Orleans is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Napa Valley is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Napa Valley is not popular with students.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New Orleans is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is New Orleans or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

New Orleans is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable city. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

Napa Valley is not a walkable city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is New Orleans Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either New Orleans or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Napa Valley due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for New Orleans, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New Orleans than Napa Valley 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 New Orleans.

One day in New Orleans or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the festive city of New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the idyllic area of Napa Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in New Orleans or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the fun-filled destination of New Orleans. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Napa Valley. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This area 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.

Five days in New Orleans or Napa Valley?

The festive city of New Orleans offers food and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The scenic area of Napa Valley offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in New Orleans or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting New Orleans. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Napa Valley. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Napa Valley?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans and Napa Valley, 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 New Orleans or Napa Valley?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit New Orleans or Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Napa Valley. The summer months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

In July, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 82°F (28°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. New Orleans usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. New Orleans gets 264 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New Orleans or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Napa Valley. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

New Orleans is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the autumn. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in New Orleans this time of the year. In the autumn, New Orleans often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. New Orleans gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

New Orleans usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, New Orleans is a little warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the winter temperatures in New Orleans in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 46°F (8°C).

New Orleans usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley during winter. New Orleans gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. In January, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New Orleans or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and New Orleans during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to New Orleans in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, New Orleans is generally much warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 68°F (20°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in New Orleans. In the spring, New Orleans often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. New Orleans gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and New Orleans