A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Durham for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Durham?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Durham can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Durham

Durham is a student-filled, sports oriented, and diverse city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint Petersburg and Durham: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Durham?

You'll generally find more things to do in Saint Petersburg than Durham. Saint Petersburg is bigger than Durham, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Saint Petersburg is more touristy than Durham and is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is famous for St. Pete Beach. Durham is well known for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Durham?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Durham?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Saint Petersburg or Durham.

Many visitors head to Saint Petersburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Durham can be an interesting and educational experience. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.


Is the Food Better in Saint Petersburg or Durham? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Saint Petersburg is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Saint Petersburg is an experience not to be missed. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Durham. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

Is Saint Petersburg or Durham Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

The vibe at night is notable in both Saint Petersburg and Durham.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Petersburg has a few options to choose from. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

Is Saint Petersburg or Durham Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Saint Petersburg is very good for its resorts. However, Durham is not a resort destination.

Saint Petersburg has a few great resort options. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Durham is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Durham Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Saint Petersburg is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Durham is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Durham is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Durham?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Durham both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Durham offers some nice shopping areas. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Is Saint Petersburg or Durham Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Saint Petersburg is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint Petersburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Durham is a family-friendly coastal city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.


Is Saint Petersburg or Durham Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Saint Petersburg is a well-known place for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Saint Petersburg or Durham Better for Students?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Durham is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

Durham is very popular with students. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

Is Saint Petersburg or Durham Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Saint Petersburg and Durham both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.


Is Saint Petersburg or Durham a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Durham

Saint Petersburg and Durham are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

Durham is generally not very walkable. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Durham Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Durham or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Durham?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Petersburg and Durham. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg than in Durham. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Durham.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Durham 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 Saint Petersburg.


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Durham? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Durham 1-3

One day in Saint Petersburg or Durham?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the student-filled destination of Durham. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Durham?

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find shopping and museums around the sports oriented city of Durham. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Saint Petersburg or Durham?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Petersburg. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Durham is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Durham?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxed destination of Saint Petersburg. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Durham is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Durham or Saint Petersburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $204, while the average daily cost in Durham is $162. 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 Saint Petersburg and Durham in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Durham $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Durham $184
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Durham

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Durham? 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 Saint Petersburg


Hotels in Durham


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Durham Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Durham $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Durham?

Prices for flights to both Durham and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $49
    Durham $44
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

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


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Durham $26

Tours and Activities in Durham

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Durham are as follows:

  • Downtown Durham Historic Walking Tour: $16
  • Durham African American History Tour: $16
  • Durham NC: Art Walking Tour: $20
  • True Crime Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Durham $34


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

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


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Durham?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Durham. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Durham, 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 Saint Petersburg or Durham?

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 Saint Petersburg or Durham in the Summer?

Both Durham and Saint Petersburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Durham this time of year.

In July, Saint Petersburg is generally around the same temperature as Durham. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 82°F (28°C), and Durham fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Durham, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the summer, Saint Petersburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Durham. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Durham receives 259 hours of full sun.

Durham gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in July than Durham. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Durham receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Durham 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Durham in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Durham. The shopping scene are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Durham for the shopping scene.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Durham in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Durham fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Durham this time of the year. In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Durham during autumn. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Durham receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Durham. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Durham receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Durham 61°F (16°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Durham in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Durham. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Durham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Durham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Durham. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Petersburg in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Durham averages at about 40°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the winter, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Durham. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Durham receives 162 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in January than Durham. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Durham receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Durham 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Durham in the Spring?

Both Durham and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Saint Petersburg is generally a little warmer than Durham. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 73°F (23°C), and Durham fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Durham. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Durham during spring. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Durham receives 251 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Durham. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Durham receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Durham 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Durham and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Durham
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)