A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Bangor for Families, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Panama City or Bangor?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Bangor, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Panama City

Panama City is a cosmopolitan, fun-filled, and active beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Bangor

Bangor is a welcoming, friendly, and laid back town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Panama City and Bangor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Panama City or Bangor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Bangor are both popular with visitors, Panama City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Panama City is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is known for its museums and small town charm. Panama City is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also home to Pier Park. Bangor is popular for its history as a lumber town.

How is Panama City different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or Bangor?

Panama City
Bangor

Bangor is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Bangor offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Panama City or Bangor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Panama City
Bangor

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Panama City and Bangor can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Panama City. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Bangor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Panama City or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Bangor

Panama City is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Panama City offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Panama City or Bangor Better for Music?

Panama City
Bangor

Panama City is a beach town with good options for its music scene. However, Bangor is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Bangor is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Bangor Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Bangor

Panama City is a beach town with good options for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Bangor is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Bangor Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Bangor

Panama City is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Panama City attract visitors from all over. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Bangor?

Panama City
Bangor

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bangor and Panama City.

Panama City offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Bangor has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.


Is Panama City or Bangor Better for Families?

Panama City
Bangor

Panama City is an amazing beach town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Panama City is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Bangor is a family-friendly beach town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Panama City or Bangor Better for Couples?

Panama City
Bangor

Panama City is a well-known place for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Panama City is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Panama City or Bangor Better for Students?

Panama City
Bangor

Panama City is a well-known place for students. However, Bangor is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Panama City. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Bangor is not popular with students.


Is Panama City or Bangor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Panama City
Bangor

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and Bangor.

Public transit is generally limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Is Panama City or Bangor a more walkable city?

Panama City
Bangor

Bangor is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

For even more information, also check out Is Panama City Worth Visiting? and Is Bangor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Panama City or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Panama City than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangor than Panama City 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 Bangor.


  • How many days in Panama City or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Panama City 3-7 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Panama City or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Panama City. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the friendly town of Bangor. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Panama City or Bangor?

Panama City is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Bangor. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Panama City or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Panama City. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The welcoming town of Bangor offers museums and food. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the active destination of Panama City. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Bangor. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bangor or Panama City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $224, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $197. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Panama City and Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Bangor? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Panama City


Hotels in Bangor


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Panama City Hotel Prices and Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Bangor $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $69
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor and Panama City change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Panama City $66
    Bangor $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Bangor $45

Tours and Activities in Panama City

Here are a few actual costs in Panama City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Panama City Beach: SkyWheel Ticket with Sunset Option: $19
  • SkyWheel Panama City Beach Sunset Ticket: $23
  • Panama City Beach: SkyWheel Ticket and Mini Golf Combo: $26
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour: Pedal At Your Pace: $28
  • Bike Rental with Smartphone Tour: $28
  • Sunset Dolphin Cruise in St. Andrews Bay: $29
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $35
  • Panama City Beach Dolphin Sightseeing Sail: $40
  • Sunset & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time: $42
  • Panama City Beach: Sunset Catamaran Cruise: $45
  • Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time : $52
  • 90 min Cruise at Lower Grand Lagoon : $54

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Bangor $23


When comparing the travel costs between Panama City and Bangor, we can see that Panama City is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Panama City or Bangor?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Bangor, 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 Panama City or Bangor?

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 Panama City or Bangor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Bangor. The beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Panama City is a little warmer than Bangor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Bangor averages at about 69°F (21°C).

Panama City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Panama City usually receives more rain than Bangor. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Panama City 82°F (28°C) 
    Bangor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Bangor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Bangor. Many travelers come to Panama City for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bangor in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Panama City is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Panama City usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bangor. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Panama City 71°F (22°C) 
    Bangor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Bangor in the Winter?

Both Bangor and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Panama City in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bangor for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bangor can be very cold during winter. Panama City is much warmer than Bangor in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Bangor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Panama City usually receives more rain than Bangor. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Panama City 52°F (11°C) 
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Bangor in the Spring?

Both Bangor and Panama City during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Panama City for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bangor because of the small town charm.

In the spring, Panama City is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Bangor averages at about 43°F (6°C).

Panama City usually gets less rain in April than Bangor. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Panama City 68°F (20°C) 
    Bangor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bangor and Panama City

Panama City Bangor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 61°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.3 inches (184 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.5 inches (192 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)