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

Should you visit Orlando or San Francisco?

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

Should I visit Orlando or San Francisco? 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 active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a scenic, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Orlando and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or San Francisco?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Francisco than Orlando. San Francisco is bigger than Orlando, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Francisco is better known for its museums, food, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is more popular for its resorts. Orlando is well known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. San Francisco is well known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge.

How is Orlando different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Francisco 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 San Francisco?

San Francisco is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit San Francisco from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Theater?

There are notable theater venues available in both Orlando and San Francisco.

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.

San Francisco offers a number of shows and performances. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

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

San Francisco is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, San Francisco is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Orlando and San Francisco.

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 San Francisco. 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 Orlando or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a popular place for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Francisco is active and vibrant. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is great for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

San Francisco is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is renowned for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

People visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or San Francisco?

San Francisco is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in San Francisco. 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.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Christmas?

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, San Francisco does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Orlando. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

San Francisco does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Orlando or San Francisco.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Couples?

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

San Francisco is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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 San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

San Francisco is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

San Francisco is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Orlando is a good city to visit for 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.

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

San Francisco is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

San Francisco has a great public transit system. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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

Is Orlando or San Francisco a more walkable city?

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

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.

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 San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or San Francisco?

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

Families should spend more time in San Francisco than Orlando. 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 Orlando. 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 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 San Francisco.

One day in Orlando or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the active destination of Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Orlando or San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Orlando or San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the family-friendly destination of Orlando. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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 Orlando or San Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 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 San Francisco, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is San Francisco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Francisco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Francisco 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 San Francisco.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orlando is generally much warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 82°F (28°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orlando or San Francisco in the Autumn?

Both San Francisco and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Orlando is a little warmer than San Francisco in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and San Francisco. 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 San Francisco because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Orlando is a little warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and San Francisco averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orlando or San Francisco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as San Francisco. Additionally, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

In April, Orlando is generally much warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Orlando usually gets more rain in April than San Francisco. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 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 Orlando