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

Should you visit Panama City or Lewisburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Lewisburg, 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 fun-filled, active, and cosmopolitan beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a charming, historical, and quaint 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 and museums.

Panama City and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 Lewisburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Lewisburg are popular destinations, Panama City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Panama City is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Panama City is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also well known for Pier Park. Lewisburg is famous for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Panama City different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Panama City
Lewisburg

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

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Panama City
Lewisburg

Panama City is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Panama City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Panama City or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Panama City is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Panama City is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Panama City or Lewisburg Better for Music?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Panama City is a popular place for live music. However, Lewisburg is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Panama City is active and vibrant. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Lewisburg is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Lewisburg Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Panama City is a popular place for its resorts. However, Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Panama City has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Lewisburg Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Panama City is well known for its beaches. However, Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Panama City is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Is Panama City or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Panama City does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Lewisburg to see the old town. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Panama City does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Lewisburg?

Panama City
Lewisburg

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

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

Lewisburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Panama City or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Panama City is an amazing beach town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Panama City or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Panama City is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Panama City or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Panama City is well known for students. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Panama City is a very popular beach town for students and younger travelers. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

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

Panama City
Lewisburg

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

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 Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Is Panama City or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Panama City
Lewisburg

Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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 Lewisburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Panama City or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Panama City than Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.

Families should spend more time in Panama City than Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.


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

One day in Panama City or Lewisburg?

You'll find food and shopping around the beach town of Panama City. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical town of Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the cosmopolitan destination of Panama City. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the active beach town of Panama City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

The quaint town of Lewisburg offers shopping and museums. 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 Lewisburg?

Panama City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Panama City, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Lewisburg. 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, Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg is $136. 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 Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Lewisburg? 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 Lewisburg


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Lewisburg $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg 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
    Lewisburg $34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Lewisburg $18

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Lewisburg $12


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

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 Lewisburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Panama City or Lewisburg?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg?

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 Lewisburg in the Summer?

Both Lewisburg and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Panama City in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 82°F (28°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives less sunshine than Lewisburg during summer. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. It's quite rainy in Panama City. In July, Panama City usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Panama City 82°F (28°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

Both Lewisburg and Panama City during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Panama City for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Lewisburg because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Panama City is much warmer than Lewisburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the autumn, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Lewisburg. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Panama City 71°F (22°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Lewisburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Lewisburg. The winter months attract visitors to Panama City because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lewisburg in the winter. In the winter, Panama City is much warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Panama City in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Lewisburg during winter. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Panama City usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Panama City 52°F (11°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Lewisburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Lewisburg. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the small town charm.

In April, Panama City is generally much warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 68°F (20°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Panama City this time of the year. In the spring, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets less rain in April than Lewisburg. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Panama City 68°F (20°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Panama City

Panama City Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 61°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.3 inches (184 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.5 inches (192 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)