A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tallahassee vs. Sonoma for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Tallahassee or Sonoma?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Sonoma can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a lively, vibrant, and youthful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Tallahassee and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 Tallahassee or Sonoma?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sonoma. Although Tallahassee and Sonoma are popular destinations, Sonoma has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sonoma is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee attracts visitors for its museums. Sonoma is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also well known for Buena Vista Winery. Tallahassee is famous for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tallahassee or Sonoma?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Tallahassee is a great 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 Tallahassee. 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.

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 Tallahassee or Sonoma? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Sonoma have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

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 Tallahassee or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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 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 Tallahassee or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

In Sonoma, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Tallahassee or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Sonoma attract visitors from all over. 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is Tallahassee or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for hiking. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Sonoma?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for its shopping areas. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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

Tallahassee is a great destination for shopping. 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 Tallahassee or Sonoma Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Both Tallahassee and Sonoma are nice to visit with kids.

Tallahassee offers lots of family activities. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

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 Tallahassee or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Sonoma is a great county for couples, as it 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.

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 Tallahassee or Sonoma Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Tallahassee is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sonoma is not known for backpackers.

Tallahassee is a good city to visit for backpackers. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Sonoma is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget hotel options in the area, but not much in the form of hostels.


Is Tallahassee or Sonoma Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Tallahassee is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Sonoma is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Tallahassee. 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.

Sonoma is not popular with students.

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

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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 Tallahassee or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Sonoma

Tallahassee is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

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

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


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

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Tallahassee or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sonoma than Tallahassee. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallahassee than Sonoma 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 Tallahassee or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Tallahassee or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Tallahassee. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing county of Sonoma. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the food. 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 Tallahassee or Sonoma?

Tallahassee is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the serene destination of Sonoma. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This county 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 Tallahassee or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallahassee. 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.

The scenic county of Sonoma offers shopping and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


A week in Tallahassee or Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Tallahassee. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Sonoma. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Sonoma or Tallahassee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $156, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $219. 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 Tallahassee and Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Sonoma $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47
    Sonoma $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Sonoma $16

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: $245
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $483
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $191
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $376

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • Create your own wine blend experience: $140
  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $300
  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $49
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $126
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $125

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Sonoma $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Sonoma

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Sonoma:

  • San Francisco: Half-Day Wine Tour with 2 Tastings Included: $189
  • Sonoma Food & Wine Tour: $235


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallahassee and Sonoma, we can see that Sonoma 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 Sonoma would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sonoma 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 Tallahassee Expensive? and Is Sonoma Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Sonoma?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee or Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

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

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. In July, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Tallahassee or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Tallahassee during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Tallahassee this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sonoma for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tallahassee is a little warmer than Sonoma. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallahassee in October average around 69°F (20°C), and Sonoma averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Tallahassee usually gets more rain in October than Sonoma. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Sonoma in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Sonoma. Many travelers come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sonoma in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Tallahassee is generally a little warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 51°F (11°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In January, Tallahassee usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sonoma. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Sonoma in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Sonoma. Additionally, most visitors come to Sonoma for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Tallahassee is a little warmer than Sonoma in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in April than Sonoma. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)