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

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Saint Petersburg travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a serene, relaxing, and scenic county. Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Sonoma travel costs.

Saint Petersburg and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Sonoma?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sonoma than Saint Petersburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sonoma is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums and attractions and beaches. Sonoma is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. Also, Sonoma is famous for Buena Vista Winery. Saint Petersburg is well known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Saint Petersburg. 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.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


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

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Sonoma is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sonoma has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Saint Petersburg or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Sonoma for the nightlife scene. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

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 Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sonoma. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

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 Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Saint Petersburg is terrific for the beach. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for its beaches.

Saint Petersburg is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Many people visit Sonoma for it's beautiful beaches. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Is Saint Petersburg or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

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

Many visitors go to Sonoma for the hiking trails. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Sonoma?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Sonoma 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 Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

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 Sonoma More Beautiful?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Sonoma is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Petersburg or Sonoma Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Saint Petersburg. 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.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is Saint Petersburg or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Sonoma is terrific for romance. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Sonoma has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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.


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

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Saint Petersburg is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Saint Petersburg or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Sonoma

Saint Petersburg is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its 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.

Sonoma is not a walkable coastal city. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Sonoma?

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

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


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

One day in Saint Petersburg or Sonoma?

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 shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Sonoma. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This county offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Sonoma?

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 nightlife and food around the scenic county of Sonoma. If you have a weekend, this county 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 food. 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 Sonoma?

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.

Sonoma 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 Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled 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.

Sonoma 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 food. 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, Sonoma or Saint Petersburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Saint Petersburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Petersburg $239
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $239, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Sonoma? 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 Sonoma


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 Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Sonoma $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma 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 $84
    Sonoma $96
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
    Sonoma $16

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Sonoma $41


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Sonoma, we can see that Sonoma 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 Sonoma Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Sonoma?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Sonoma, 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 Sonoma?

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 Saint Petersburg or Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Sonoma in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Petersburg is generally a little warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 82°F (28°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Saint Petersburg. In July, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Saint Petersburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sonoma for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Sonoma in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Sonoma fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in October than Sonoma. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Sonoma in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Sonoma. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Sonoma. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Petersburg in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Sonoma averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In January, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Sonoma. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Sonoma in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Sonoma. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

In April, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 73°F (23°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in April than Sonoma. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)