A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Providence vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Attractions

Should you visit Providence or Napa Valley?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Providence and Napa Valley. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Providence

Providence is a active, friendly, and fascinating city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Providence and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Providence or Napa Valley?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Napa Valley than Providence. While Providence is larger than Napa Valley, Napa Valley has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Napa Valley is very popular for its food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Providence attracts visitors for its museums. Napa Valley is more touristy than Providence and is known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also well known for Louis M. Martini Winery. Providence is famous for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Providence different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Providence
Napa Valley

Providence is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Providence. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


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

Providence
Napa Valley

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

Eat your way through Napa Valley, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Providence makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

Is Providence or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Providence
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great area for its evening party scene. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Napa Valley has something for everybody. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

Is Providence or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Providence
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great area for hiking. However, Providence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Providence is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Providence or Napa Valley?

Providence
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great area for its shopping areas. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Providence is a great destination for shopping. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Is Providence or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Providence
Napa Valley

Both Providence and Napa Valley are nice family-friendly destinations.

Providence offers lots of family activities. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

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 Providence or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Providence
Napa Valley

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

Napa Valley is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.


Is Providence or Napa Valley Better for Students?

Providence
Napa Valley

Providence is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Napa Valley is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Providence. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Napa Valley is not popular with students.

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

Providence
Napa Valley

Providence is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

While Providence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Providence or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Providence
Napa Valley

Providence is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Providence is a very walkable destination. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Napa Valley is not a walkable city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Providence Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Providence?

How long in Providence or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Providence 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, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Providence, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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


  • How many days in Providence or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Providence 2-3 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Providence or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Providence. 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.

With shopping and nightlife around the idyllic area of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Napa Valley, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Providence or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fascinating destination of Providence. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this area.

Five days in Providence or Napa Valley?

The fascinating city of Providence 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, a popular area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Providence or Napa Valley?

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

Napa Valley is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Providence?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Providence is $210, 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 Providence and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Providence $114
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Providence $228
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Providence and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Providence 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 Providence


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: Providence Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Providence $46
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $272
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $170
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $49
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $46
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $46
  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

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

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Providence or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Providence 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
    Providence $48
    Napa Valley $62

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Providence $26
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Providence

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

  • Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal: $58
  • Brews Cruise with Narragansett Beer: $60
  • Creative Capital: Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $40
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $40
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Haunted Boat Tours: $49
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Narrated Boat Tours: $36
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Power and Politics: The Struggle for the Soul of Providence Tour: $35
  • Providence Architecture Boat Tour: $65

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-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • 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 Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Providence $13
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Providence

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

  • Vineyard Voyages - Floating Wine Tasting: $65

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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

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


Which is Bigger, Providence or Napa Valley?

Providence has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence or Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Providence are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Providence for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Providence is around the same temperature as Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 73°F (23°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 Providence. Providence usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Providence gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Providence usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Providence gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Providence 73°F (23°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Providence or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Providence during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Providence because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

In the autumn, Providence is cooler than Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Providence in October average around 53°F (12°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 Providence. In the autumn, Providence often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Providence gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Providence usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Providence gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Providence 53°F (12°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Providence or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Providence and Napa Valley. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Providence this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Providence in the winter. In January, Providence is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Providence average around 28°F (-2°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Providence usually receives more sunshine than Napa Valley during winter. Providence gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Providence usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Providence gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Providence 28°F (-2°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Providence or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Providence as well as Napa Valley. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the spring for the natural beauty.

Providence is cooler than Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 48°F (9°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 Providence this time of the year. In the spring, Providence often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Providence gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Providence usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Providence gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Providence 48°F (9°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Providence

Providence Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)