A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Saint Petersburg vs. Tallahassee for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Saint Petersburg and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee?

You'll generally find more things to do in Saint Petersburg than Tallahassee. Saint Petersburg is bigger than Tallahassee, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Saint Petersburg is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is famous for St. Pete Beach. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

Spend time exploring the superb sights and museums in either Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee.

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 Tallahassee can be an interesting and educational experience. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.


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

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

Saint Petersburg is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Petersburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

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

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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

Saint Petersburg is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

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

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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee offers some nice shopping areas. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Is Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.


Is Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

Saint Petersburg is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Tallahassee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is very popular with students. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.


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

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

Saint Petersburg and Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Is Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Tallahassee

Saint Petersburg and Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saint Petersburg than Tallahassee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

Families should spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.


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

One day in Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled coastal city of Saint Petersburg. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxed destination of Saint Petersburg. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal 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.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the vibrant city of Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee?

The underrated coastal city of Saint Petersburg offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee?

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

Tallahassee 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 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, Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee is $156. 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 Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee? 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 Tallahassee


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 Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47
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
    Tallahassee $12

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $247
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $482
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $375

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Tallahassee $53


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

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 Tallahassee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Tallahassee. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee in the Summer?

Both Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee during summer. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. It's quite rainy in Saint Petersburg. In July, Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tallahassee. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

Both Tallahassee and Saint Petersburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Tallahassee for the shopping scene during these months.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Tallahassee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the autumn, Saint Petersburg often gets less sunshine than Tallahassee. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 256 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in October than Tallahassee. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


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

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Tallahassee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Petersburg in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Tallahassee during winter. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 185 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Tallahassee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Tallahassee. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches.

In April, Saint Petersburg is generally a little warmer than Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 73°F (23°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Petersburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 295 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in April than Tallahassee. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)