A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Nashville for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Tampa or Nashville?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Nashville? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches.

Nashville

Nashville is a country music lovers, eclectic, and southern city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and museums.

Tampa and Nashville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Nashville?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nashville than Tampa. Nashville is bigger than Tampa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nashville is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, resorts, and shopping, while Tampa is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Nashville is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its influence in country music and its many live music venues. Also, Nashville is famous for The Grand Ole Opry. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Nashville?

Nashville is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nashville. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tampa or Nashville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Nashville can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Nashville offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Nightlife?

Nashville is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

Nashville has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Music?

Nashville is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Tampa is not a live music destination.

Nashville has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Tampa is not a live music destination.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Resorts?

Nashville is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa is not a resort destination.

Nashville has a few great resort options. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nashville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Nashville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Beaches?

Tampa is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Nashville is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Tampa attract visitors from all over. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Nashville is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Nashville?

Nashville is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nashville has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Christmas?

Nashville is a popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Tampa does not offer Christmas activities.

Nashville worth visiting during the Christmas season. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Tampa does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Families?

Tampa is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tampa is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Couples?

Nashville is a popular place for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Nashville is a good city for couples to visit. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nashville is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nashville. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Tampa or Nashville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Tampa or Nashville offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Tampa or Nashville a more walkable city?

Tampa is a decent place to visit for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

Nashville is not a walkable city. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Nashville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nashville or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Nashville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tampa and Nashville. In our opinion, Nashville has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nashville than Tampa. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nashville than Tampa 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 Nashville.

One day in Tampa or Nashville?

You'll find food around the city of Tampa. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nashville, many people enjoy the food and museums that this southern destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Nashville?

You'll find food around the low-key destination of Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nashville. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Nashville?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the laid-back city of Tampa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nashville is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Nashville. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Nashville?

Tampa is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find live music and food around the southern destination of Nashville. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.

When comparing the travel costs between Tampa and Nashville, we can see that Tampa 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 Tampa Expensive? and Is Nashville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tampa or Nashville?

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Tampa. When comparing the sizes of Tampa and Nashville, 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 Tampa or Nashville?

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 Tampa or Nashville in the Summer?

Both Nashville and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tampa in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Nashville for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Tampa is around the same temperature as Nashville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Nashville averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Nashville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nashville during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tampa. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Nashville. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Nashville in the Autumn?

Both Nashville and Tampa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tampa for the city's sights and attractions during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Nashville because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Nashville. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Nashville fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Nashville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Nashville. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 212 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Nashville. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Nashville in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Nashville. The winter months attract visitors to Tampa because of the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nashville this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nashville in the winter. Tampa is much warmer than Nashville in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Nashville fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Nashville during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Nashville. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tampa or Nashville in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Nashville. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Nashville for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Tampa is a little warmer than Nashville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Nashville averages at about 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nashville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Nashville. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 234 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nashville. Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Nashville. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nashville and Tampa