A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Phoenix vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Phoenix or Napa Valley?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Napa Valley can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Napa Valley

Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food.

Phoenix and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Phoenix or Napa Valley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Phoenix than Napa Valley. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Phoenix is very popular for its museums, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Napa Valley attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Phoenix is more touristy than Napa Valley and is known for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. It is also well known for Desert Botanical Garden. Napa Valley is famous for

How is Phoenix different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phoenix or Napa Valley?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Phoenix is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Phoenix. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

Napa Valley does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Phoenix or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Napa Valley have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Phoenix or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Phoenix is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Napa Valley is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Phoenix has a few options to choose from. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Napa Valley is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Phoenix or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Phoenix is a city with good options for hiking. However, Napa Valley is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Phoenix. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Napa Valley is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Napa Valley?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Phoenix is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Napa Valley is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Napa Valley is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Phoenix or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Both Phoenix and Napa Valley are nice to visit with kids.

Phoenix offers lots of family activities. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Phoenix or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Napa Valley is a great for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.


Is Phoenix or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Phoenix is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley does not have public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Napa Valley does not have public transit.

Is Phoenix or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Phoenix
Napa Valley

Phoenix is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not a walkable destination.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

Napa Valley is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Phoenix or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Napa Valley due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Phoenix, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Phoenix than Napa Valley 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 Phoenix.


  • How many days in Phoenix or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Phoenix 1-3 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Phoenix or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back city of Phoenix. 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.

In Napa Valley, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Phoenix or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the desert destination of Phoenix. 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.

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

Five days in Phoenix or Napa Valley?

The laid back city of Phoenix 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.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. 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 Phoenix or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Phoenix. Anyone can find something fun to do 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 Napa Valley. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Napa Valley. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Phoenix?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Phoenix is $238, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $288. 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 Phoenix and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phoenix $144
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phoenix $288
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Phoenix and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Phoenix or Napa Valley? 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 Phoenix


Hotels in Napa Valley


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: Phoenix Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phoenix $39
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

Also for Phoenix, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $149
  • Phoenix International Airport (PHX) - Private transfer From/to Hotels: $118
  • Arrival Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix City : $117
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $110
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $110
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $110
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $110
  • Departure Private Transfer Phoenix City to Phoenix Airport PHX : $110
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Business Car: $96
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer From Hotels To Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport PHX : $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Phoenix or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $52
    Napa Valley $62
Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

For Phoenix, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $92
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $92
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Quiche Lorraine French Cooking Class in Scottsdale: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Phoenix $40
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $79
  • 1/2 DAY SONORAN DESERT HIKE. Tour, Workout or Challenge Pace.: $115
  • 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $76
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: $76
  • 2-Hour Arizona Desert Guided E-Bike Tour: $135
  • 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure: $119
  • 3 Cities & Nature Tour. Shop, Art, History, Food. Scottsdale, Phoenix, & Tempe.: $168
  • 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Tour in Sonoran Desert: $219
  • 3 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $135
  • Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour: $160
  • Beautiful Boat Cruise in Lake Pleasant Arizona: $89
  • Black Ops Experience: $259

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3 hr Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike or Regular Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $184
  • Napa Valley - River History Kayak Tour - Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sailing Tour of Bodega Bay: $122
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Phoenix $17
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Scottsdale Bar Hunt: Scorching Scottsdale Bar Crawl: $12
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $55
  • Verde Valley Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix/Tempe: $199
  • Haunted Jerome Wine & Brewery tasting from Scottsdale: $225
  • Custom Arizona Brewery / Vineyard Tour: $245

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Sonoma Valley Bike and Wine Tour (E-bike or Regular): $189
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Affordable Wine Tour in Napa and Sonoma: $200
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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

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


Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Napa Valley?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix and Napa Valley, 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 Phoenix or Napa Valley?

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 Phoenix or Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Phoenix are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

It's very hot in Phoenix this time of the year. Phoenix is much warmer than Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 98°F (36°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. Phoenix usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Phoenix gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Phoenix usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Phoenix gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Phoenix or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Phoenix during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Phoenix is much warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phoenix in October average around 79°F (26°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Phoenix. In the autumn, Phoenix often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley. Phoenix gets 305 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Phoenix usually gets less rain in October than Napa Valley. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Phoenix or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Phoenix and Napa Valley. Many travelers come to Phoenix for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the winter for the cuisine.

In January, Phoenix is generally much warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 58°F (14°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Napa Valley during winter. Phoenix gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Phoenix or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Phoenix as well as Napa Valley. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty during these months.

Phoenix is much warmer than Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In the spring, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Napa Valley. Phoenix gets 355 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Phoenix usually gets less rain in April than Napa Valley. Phoenix gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Phoenix

Phoenix Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)