A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Orlando vs. Saint Petersburg for Resorts, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Orlando or Saint Petersburg?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Petersburg? 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. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and food.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Orlando and Saint Petersburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Saint Petersburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Saint Petersburg are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, resorts, and shopping, while Saint Petersburg is known for its museums and beaches. Orlando is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is known 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 Petersburg is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

How is Orlando different from Saint Petersburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saint Petersburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Saint Petersburg Better for Theater?

Orlando is very good for theatre. However, Saint Petersburg is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. 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 Petersburg is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Orlando and Saint Petersburg.

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 Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Is Orlando or Saint Petersburg Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Orlando or Saint Petersburg Better for Resorts?

Orlando is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Orlando is a perfect choice. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Is Orlando or Saint Petersburg Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg is renowned for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Saint Petersburg. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Saint Petersburg?

Orlando is great for shopping. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping opportunities.

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 Petersburg offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Is Orlando or Saint Petersburg Better for Christmas?

Orlando is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Saint Petersburg does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Orlando is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Saint Petersburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Saint Petersburg Better for Families?

Orlando is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

Orlando is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very kid-friendly city. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Is Orlando or Saint Petersburg Better for Couples?

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

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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 Petersburg Better for Students?

Orlando is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Orlando. 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 Petersburg is not popular with students.

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

Orlando and Saint Petersburg 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 Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Is Orlando or Saint Petersburg a more walkable city?

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

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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 Petersburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Petersburg or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Saint Petersburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Orlando or Saint Petersburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Petersburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg 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 Petersburg.

One day in Orlando or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find food and shopping around the active destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Saint Petersburg, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Orlando or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find shopping and theater around the active city of Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

In Saint Petersburg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Petersburg has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Saint Petersburg?

Orlando is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Saint Petersburg 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 Petersburg?

Orlando is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Saint Petersburg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint Petersburg. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Petersburg, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Saint Petersburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saint Petersburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saint Petersburg 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 Petersburg.

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 Petersburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Saint Petersburg, 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 Petersburg?

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 Orlando or Saint Petersburg in the Summer?

Both Saint Petersburg and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Petersburg. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Petersburg in the Autumn?

Both Saint Petersburg and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Orlando is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Saint Petersburg averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Saint Petersburg. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Petersburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Saint Petersburg. Many visitors come to Orlando in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Orlando is generally around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In January, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Petersburg. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Petersburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Saint Petersburg. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches.

Orlando is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Orlando usually gets more rain in April than Saint Petersburg. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.

Typical Weather for Saint Petersburg and Orlando