A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Norfolk vs. Boston for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Norfolk or Boston?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Boston? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Norfolk and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Norfolk or Boston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston than Norfolk, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Boston is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Norfolk or Boston?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a great destination for theatre. However, Norfolk is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Norfolk is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Norfolk or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Boston is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Boston know how to have a good time. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a popular place for live music. However, Norfolk is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Norfolk is not a live music destination.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Boston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Boston and Norfolk.

Norfolk is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Norfolk does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Norfolk does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Norfolk does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to Boston to see its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Norfolk does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Couples?

Boston is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Boston is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a popular place for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a must-visit destination for students. However, Norfolk is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Norfolk is not popular with students.

Is Norfolk or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Boston has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Norfolk or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Boston?

In either Norfolk or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Norfolk because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Norfolk 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 Boston.

One day in Norfolk or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Norfolk. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This 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 Norfolk or Boston?

Norfolk 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.

Because Boston 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Norfolk or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Norfolk. 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.

Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the blue collar destination of Norfolk. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk and Boston, 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 Norfolk or Boston?

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 Norfolk or Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Boston. Most visitors come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Norfolk is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. Norfolk usually receives less sunshine than Boston during summer. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

Norfolk gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Boston. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Norfolk or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Boston. The autumn months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In the autumn, Norfolk is a little warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Norfolk in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In the autumn, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Boston. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Boston. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. It's quite cold in Norfolk in the winter. In January, Norfolk is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 39°F (4°C), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Boston during winter. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of rain as Boston. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Norfolk or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Norfolk during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Norfolk is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the spring, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Boston. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets less rain in April than Boston. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Norfolk