A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Antonio vs. Newport for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit San Antonio or Newport?

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

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

San Antonio

San Antonio is a festive, fun, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

San Antonio and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in San Antonio or Newport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newport than San Antonio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newport is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while San Antonio is more popular for its music. Newport is more touristy than San Antonio and is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Also, Newport is famous for Thames Street. San Antonio is well known for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks.

How is San Antonio different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Antonio or Newport?

San Antonio
Newport

Both San Antonio and Newport have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Antonio. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


Is the Food Better in San Antonio or Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Antonio
Newport

Newport is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

San Antonio has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

Is San Antonio or Newport Better for Nightlife?

San Antonio
Newport

It's hard to distinguish whether San Antonio or Newport has a better nightlife scene.

San Antonio has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

If you're looking for night time activities Newport has a few options to choose from. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is San Antonio or Newport Better for Music?

San Antonio
Newport

San Antonio is very good for its music scene. However, Newport is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Antonio. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Newport is not a live music destination.


Is San Antonio or Newport Better for Beaches?

San Antonio
Newport

Newport is a great destination for its beaches. However, San Antonio is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Newport for it's beautiful beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

San Antonio is not a beach destination.

Is San Antonio or Newport Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio
Newport

Newport is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in San Antonio. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Newport?

San Antonio
Newport

Newport is a great destination for shopping. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Antonio. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.


Is San Antonio or Newport Better for Christmas?

San Antonio
Newport

San Antonio is very good for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Newport does not offer Christmas activities.

San Antonio worth visiting during the Christmas season. It's fun to see the lights along the River Walk at Christmas.

Newport does not offer Christmas activities.

Is San Antonio or Newport Better for Families?

San Antonio
Newport

San Antonio is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

San Antonio is one of the most popular family destinations. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is San Antonio or Newport Better for Couples?

San Antonio
Newport

Newport is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.


Is San Antonio or Newport Better for Students?

San Antonio
Newport

San Antonio is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Newport is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit San Antonio. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Newport is not popular with students.

Is San Antonio or Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Antonio
Newport

Newport is a good destination for its public transit. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

Is San Antonio or Newport a more walkable city?

San Antonio
Newport

Newport is a great destination for its walkability. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable city. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.


For even more information, also check out Is San Antonio Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or San Antonio?

How long in San Antonio or Newport?

In either San Antonio or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than San Antonio because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Antonio, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than San Antonio 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 Newport.


  • How many days in San Antonio or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Antonio 2-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in San Antonio or Newport?

In San Antonio, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical town of Newport. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

A weekend in San Antonio or Newport?

In San Antonio, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Antonio has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the seaside destination of Newport. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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.

Five days in San Antonio or Newport?

San Antonio is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the seaside town of Newport. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in San Antonio or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Antonio. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting San Antonio. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Newport or San Antonio?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Antonio is $132, while the average daily cost in Newport is $159. 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 San Antonio and Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Antonio $69
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Antonio $138
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in San Antonio and Newport

Looking for a hotel in San Antonio or Newport? 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 San Antonio


Hotels in Newport


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: San Antonio Hotel Prices and Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Antonio $20
    Newport $36
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • Private Transfer: San Antonio Airport to San Antonio by Sedan, SUV or Minibus : $97
  • Private Round Trip Transfer - San Antonio International Airport (SAT): $93
  • Private One-way San Antonio Airport Transfer To/From San Antonio: $67
  • Galveston: One-Way Transfer GLS Airport to City: $237

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into San Antonio or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport and San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $40
    Newport $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in San Antonio.

  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Antonio $36
    Newport $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

Here are a few typical costs in San Antonio for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

Here are a few actual costs in San Antonio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Private Historic Sightseeing Tour in San Antonio : $95
  • Best of San Antonio Small Group Tour with Boat + Tower + Alamo: $169
  • Cave Without a Name Admission Ticket with Guided Cavern Tour: $25
  • Downtown San Antonio Helicopter Tour: $197
  • Half-Day Afternoon City Tour of Historic San Antonio : $65
  • Historic Downtown & Riverwalk Walking Tour: $39
  • Historic Missions Bike Tour - 2 Mission Southern Route: $65
  • Historic Missions Bike Tour - 2 Missions Northern Route: $65
  • Historic Spanish Missions Bike Tour - 3 Missions Tour: $85
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience: $24
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio Admission Ticket: $27
  • PRIVATE Missions and More - Half-day City Tour: $149

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Newport Downtown Historic Audio APP Self Guided Smart Phone Tour: $6.75
  • Newport Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport's Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Cliff Walk Gilded Age Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Scenic Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Antonio -
    Newport $14

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Death Warmed Over: San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Texas’ Oldest Haunted Pub Crawl Shared Walking Tour: $30
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $155


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

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


Which is Bigger, San Antonio or Newport?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of San Antonio and Newport, 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 San Antonio or Newport?

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 San Antonio or Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Antonio as well as Newport. Many travelers come to San Antonio for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Antonio is generally a little warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 87°F (31°C), and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Antonio this time of the year. In the summer, San Antonio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. San Antonio gets 307 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

San Antonio usually gets less rain in July than Newport. San Antonio gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    San Antonio 87°F (31°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and San Antonio are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Antonio in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

San Antonio is much warmer than Newport in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Antonio averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Antonio. San Antonio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during autumn. San Antonio gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, San Antonio usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. San Antonio gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    San Antonio 73°F (23°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and San Antonio during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Antonio for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. In the winter, San Antonio is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Antonio in January average around 54°F (12°C), and Newport averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, San Antonio often gets less sunshine than Newport. San Antonio gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

San Antonio usually gets less rain in January than Newport. San Antonio gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Antonio 54°F (12°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Antonio and Newport. The spring months attract visitors to San Antonio because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

In April, San Antonio is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 74°F (23°C), and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In San Antonio, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Antonio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during spring. San Antonio gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, San Antonio usually receives less rain than Newport. San Antonio gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Antonio 74°F (23°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and San Antonio

San Antonio Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 54°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 57°F (14°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 84°F (29°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)