A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Panama City vs. Tallahassee for Families, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Panama City or Tallahassee?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Tallahassee, 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. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a youthful, lively, and vibrant city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Panama City and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Panama City or Tallahassee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Tallahassee are both popular with visitors, Panama City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Panama City is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is known for its museums. Panama City is more touristy than Tallahassee and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also home to Pier Park. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Panama City different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Panama City
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallahassee can be an interesting and educational experience. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Panama City
Tallahassee

Panama City is a beach town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Panama City or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Tallahassee

Panama City is great for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Panama City for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Panama City or Tallahassee Better for Music?

Panama City
Tallahassee

Panama City is a beach town with good options for its music scene. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Tallahassee

Panama City is a beach town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Tallahassee

Panama City is great for the beach. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Tallahassee?

Panama City
Tallahassee

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

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

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.


Is Panama City or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Panama City
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Panama City or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Panama City
Tallahassee

Panama City is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Panama City is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Panama City or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Panama City
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Panama City or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Panama City
Tallahassee

Panama City and Tallahassee are high quality places to visit for students.

Panama City is a great beach town to visit as a student. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Students come from all over to stay in Tallahassee. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

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

Panama City
Tallahassee

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

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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Is Panama City or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Panama City
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a city with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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 Tallahassee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Tallahassee?

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

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


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

One day in Panama City or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the fun-filled beach town of Panama City. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A weekend in Panama City or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the cosmopolitan destination of Panama City. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Tallahassee. This city 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cosmopolitan beach town of Panama City. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The youthful city of Tallahassee offers museums and nightlife. 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Panama City. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Tallahassee. 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, Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee is $156. 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 Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Tallahassee? 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 Tallahassee


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 Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Tallahassee $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Tallahassee $12

Tours and Activities in Panama City

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

  • 2 Hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Capt. Zach's Adventures: $73
  • 2 Hour Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour in Panama City Beach, Fl: $72
  • 2 Hour Private Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour in Shell Island: $65
  • 3 Hour Cruise, Snorkel, Swim/float Sandbar - tandem tiki option: $80
  • Beach Sunset and Lagoon Skyline Tour: $70
  • Beginner Scuba Diving Tour PCB Free Videos: $129
  • Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour in Panama City Beach: $60
  • Cypress Springs Eco Adventure: $110
  • Discover Snorkeling Tour in Panama City: $65
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $35
  • Famous Private Center Console Boat Tours of Panama City Beach: $295
  • Jet Ski Adventure Tour: $149

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $247
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $375
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $482

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Tallahassee $53


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Panama City and Tallahassee, we can see that Panama City is more expensive. And not only is Tallahassee much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tallahassee would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.

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 Tallahassee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Panama City or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

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 Panama City or Tallahassee in the Summer?

Both Tallahassee and Panama City during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Panama City is around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 82°F (28°C).

In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the summer, Panama City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 283 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually gets less rain in July than Tallahassee. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Panama City 82°F (28°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Tallahassee. Many travelers come to Panama City for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tallahassee in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Panama City is generally around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallahassee this time of the year. In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee during autumn. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 256 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Panama City usually receives more rain than Tallahassee. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Panama City 71°F (22°C) 
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Tallahassee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Tallahassee. Many visitors come to Panama City in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Panama City is around the same temperature as Tallahassee in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In the winter, Panama City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 185 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Tallahassee. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Panama City 52°F (11°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Tallahassee in the Spring?

Both Tallahassee and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Panama City for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Panama City is around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee during spring. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 295 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. In April, Panama City usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Panama City 68°F (20°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Panama City

Panama City Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 61°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.3 inches (184 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.5 inches (192 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)