A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Newport vs. San Francisco for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Newport or San Francisco?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newport and San Francisco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a outdoorsy, quirky, and eccentric coastal city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and beaches.

Newport and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newport or San Francisco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco. Although Newport and San Francisco are popular destinations, San Francisco has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Francisco is very popular for its museums & sights, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Newport attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. San Francisco is more touristy than Newport and is known 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. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history.

How is Newport different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Francisco and Newport. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newport or San Francisco?

San Francisco is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, San Francisco has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Is Newport or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is very good for its shows and theatre. However, Newport is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Newport is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

San Francisco has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Newport or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newport and San Francisco.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

San Francisco has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Newport or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is very good for its music scene. However, Newport is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Newport is not a live music destination.

Is Newport or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

Newport and San Francisco are excellent choices for a beach vacation.

Newport is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

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.

Is Newport or San Francisco Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Is Newport or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking. 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.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or San Francisco?

San Francisco is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to San Francisco specifically to go shopping. 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.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Newport or San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Newport or San Francisco Better for Couples?

Newport is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Newport has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Newport or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Francisco. 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.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

Is Newport or San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Newport is not popular with students.

San Francisco is very popular with students. 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.

Newport is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of San Francisco can take you anywhere. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Is Newport or San Francisco a more walkable city?

Newport and San Francisco are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting? and Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Newport?

How long in Newport or San Francisco?

Both Newport 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 Newport. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

Families should spend more time in San Francisco than Newport. 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 Newport. 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 Newport 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 Newport or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Newport. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Newport or San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Newport or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical destination of Newport. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Francisco has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Newport or San Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Newport. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Francisco. Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Newport and San Francisco, we can see that San Francisco is more expensive. And not only is Newport much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Newport would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newport 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 Newport.

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

Which is Bigger, Newport or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Newport 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 Newport or San Francisco?

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 Newport or San Francisco in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and San Francisco. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newport this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Newport is a little warmer than San Francisco in the summer. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Newport usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Newport or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Newport as well as San Francisco. Many travelers come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to San Francisco in the autumn 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, Newport is cooler than San Francisco. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newport in October average around 53°F (12°C), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Newport usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newport or San Francisco in the Winter?

Both San Francisco and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Newport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Newport can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Newport is generally much colder than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 28°F (-2°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Newport usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Newport or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Newport during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Newport is much colder than San Francisco in the spring. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Newport usually gets more rain in April than San Francisco. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Newport