A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Orlando vs. Saint Augustine for Families, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Orlando or Saint Augustine?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Augustine? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine is a historic, notable, and colonial city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Orlando and Saint Augustine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Saint Augustine?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Saint Augustine are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions and resorts, while Saint Augustine is known for its museums, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Saint Augustine and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Saint Augustine is popular for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States.

How is Orlando different from Saint Augustine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or Saint Augustine?

Saint Augustine is great for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint Augustine offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It's history is brought to life with many monuments and museums. The Lightner Museum, the Old Jail Museum, the Lincolnville Museum, and Castillo De San Marcos are among the city's most notable sights. Also worth a visit is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Saint Augustine is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Saint Augustine is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or Saint Augustine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Orlando and Saint Augustine.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Augustine. The food scene is influenced by the long history of the city. You'll find flavors that are influenced by Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. There are several popular dishes around town such as fried shrimp, clam chowder, and shrimp and grits.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Orlando and Saint Augustine.

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Augustine. There are wineries, pubs, live music venues, and a number of activities that take advantage of the outdoor setting.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Resorts?

Orlando is very popular for its resorts. However, Saint Augustine is not a resort destination.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Saint Augustine is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Beaches?

Saint Augustine is great for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Saint Augustine is considered a top beach destination. Head to the beach to relax and swim. There are miles of sandy beach nearby, with some of the most popular being Ponte Vedra Beach, known for its golf courses, Vilano Beach, with its charming atmosphere, and the scenic Anastasia State Park.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for its Old Town?

Saint Augustine is renowned for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Saint Augustine is one of the most recognized in the world. As the longest running, continuously occupied city in the United States, the Historic Downtown is at the heart of the city. It's filled with quaint restaurants, historic hotels, and charming streets. You can take carriage rides or wander through the historic sites. Many of the buildings date back to the 1700s and offer a glimpse into Florida's past.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Saint Augustine?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Saint Augustine both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Saint Augustine is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic Downtown has unique art galleries and boutiques. St. George Street is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir and Aviles Street is the oldest street in the United States. It's also filled with artisan boutiques. Plaza de la Constitución is known for its long running public market and it often has live entertainment.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Christmas?

Orlando is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Saint Augustine does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando is a world class destination for shoppers. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Saint Augustine does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Families?

Orlando is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Augustine is very family-friendly. Kids will love the Alligator Farm but there's also a surprisingly fascinating archaeological park - The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The Colonial Quarter is fun for all ages as well, as is a visit to Fort Castillo De San Marcos. If you have some time, head outside of town to the Marineland Dolphin Adventure, which is well worth the trip.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Couples?

Saint Augustine is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Saint Augustine is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The Ancient City has a charm that is unique in Florida. There is beautiful architecture and a historical atmosphere that is romantic and genuine. You can enjoy a carriage ride and then sample some local cuisine before heading to the beach.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Students?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for students. However, Saint Augustine is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Saint Augustine is not popular with students.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orlando and Saint Augustine both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Augustine. The Old Town Trolley travels through the historic center. There's also a bus service through the region, but you really need a private vehicle to explore everything.

Is Orlando or Saint Augustine a more walkable city?

Saint Augustine is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Saint Augustine is very walkable. It's one of the more walkable cities in the area. Downtown, Uptown, and even near the beach have accessible areas with sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Saint Augustine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Augustine or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Saint Augustine?

It's fun to spend time in either Orlando or Saint Augustine. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint Augustine due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 3-4 days is enough time in Saint Augustine.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Augustine than Orlando 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 Saint Augustine.

One day in Orlando or Saint Augustine?

The entertaining destination of Orlando offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Saint Augustine, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Orlando or Saint Augustine?

The city of Orlando offers food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Saint Augustine, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Orlando or Saint Augustine?

Orlando is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Saint Augustine is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Saint Augustine?

Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Augustine. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint Augustine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Saint Augustine?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Augustine. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Saint Augustine, 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 Orlando or Saint Augustine?

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 Orlando or Saint Augustine in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Saint Augustine. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Saint Augustine in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Orlando is around the same temperature as Saint Augustine in the summer. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Saint Augustine fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite rainy in Saint Augustine. Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Saint Augustine. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Saint Augustine receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Augustine in the Autumn?

Both Saint Augustine and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Saint Augustine for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Orlando is a little warmer than Saint Augustine. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Saint Augustine averages at about 70°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Saint Augustine. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Saint Augustine receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Saint Augustine is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Augustine in the Winter?

Both Saint Augustine and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Saint Augustine because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Saint Augustine. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Saint Augustine fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Saint Augustine. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Saint Augustine receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Augustine in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Saint Augustine. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint Augustine this time of year.

Orlando is around the same temperature as Saint Augustine in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Saint Augustine fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Augustine. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Saint Augustine receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Saint Augustine is June to November.

Typical Weather for Saint Augustine and Orlando