A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs?

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 Palm Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Saint Petersburg is known for its museums and beaches. Palm Springs is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Saint Petersburg is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Saint Petersburg is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.


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

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Petersburg. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palm Springs. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Is Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is terrific for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a must-see party destination. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Palm Springs is a perfect choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.


Is Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Saint Petersburg is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is great for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Palm Springs for the hiking trails. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs?

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is great for shopping. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Palm Springs. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

Saint Petersburg offers some nice shopping areas. 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.


Is Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Palm Springs is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Is Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Both Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

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

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs both offer decent 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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.


Is Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is very good for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Palm Springs is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs. In our opinion, Palm Springs has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Palm Springs than Saint Petersburg. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs?

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this underrated coastal city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the chic destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs?

Saint Petersburg is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the chic city of Palm Springs. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. 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 Palm Springs?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the underrated destination of Saint Petersburg. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Palm Springs?

Saint Petersburg is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs is $206. 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 Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs? 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 Palm Springs


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 Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Palm Springs Airport to Desert Hot Springs Round-Trip Transfer: $175
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to INDIAN WELLS - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Private Transfer from PSP to Palm Desert / Indian Wells: $135
  • Palm Springs Airport PSP to Snow Summit-Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to SANTA ANA - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to ONTARIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport Departure Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Private Transfer: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $53
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
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

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

  • 10+ Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas: $50
  • 100+ Self Guided Driving & Walking Tours by Action: $100
  • Best of Palm Springs Small Group Tour w/ Aerial Tram: $166
  • Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ: $129
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Desert Healing Experience: $175
  • Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bicycle Adventure: $139
  • Food Adventure Game: $99
  • Indian Canyons Walking Tour by Jeep from Palm Springs: $200
  • Joshua Tree National Park Driving Tour : $235
  • Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour: $235
  • Joshua Tree National Park Scenic Tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Palm Springs $13


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs, we can see that Palm Springs is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Palm Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs?

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 Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs 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. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Palm Springs. The shopping scene are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Petersburg in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs in the Winter?

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

In January, Saint Petersburg is generally around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 59°F (15°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs 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.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)