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

Should you visit Tampa or Norfolk?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Norfolk? 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. It's also known for food and beaches.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Tampa and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Norfolk?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tampa than Norfolk. Tampa is bigger than Norfolk, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tampa is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Norfolk is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. Also, Tampa is famous for Busch Gardens. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Tampa different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Norfolk 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 Norfolk. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Norfolk 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.

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Tampa or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Norfolk. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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 Norfolk Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa is a city with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. 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.

Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Norfolk Better for Beaches?

Tampa is a great destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Norfolk?

Norfolk is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Norfolk has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Norfolk Better for Families?

Tampa is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Tampa or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Neither Tampa or Norfolk is generally regarded as a top spot for a couple to visit.

Tampa is not always the best place to visit for a couple. 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.

Norfolk is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

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

Norfolk is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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

Is Tampa or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Norfolk is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tampa or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tampa than Norfolk because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 1-2 days is enough time in Norfolk.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Norfolk 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 Norfolk.

One day in Tampa or Norfolk?

In Tampa, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Norfolk, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tampa or Norfolk?

In Tampa, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tampa has to offer.

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

Tampa is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Norfolk is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Norfolk. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Norfolk. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Norfolk, 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 Norfolk Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tampa or Norfolk?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Tampa and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

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 Tampa or Norfolk in the Summer?

Both Norfolk and Tampa during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year.

In the summer, Tampa is around the same temperature as Norfolk. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Norfolk averages at about 79°F (26°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the summer, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun.

Norfolk gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually gets more rain in July than Norfolk. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Norfolk in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Norfolk. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Norfolk for the shopping scene.

In October, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during autumn. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tampa usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tampa or Norfolk in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Norfolk. Many travelers come to Tampa for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Norfolk in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Norfolk can get quite cold in the winter. Tampa is much warmer than Norfolk in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the winter, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Norfolk. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in January than Norfolk. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Norfolk in the Spring?

Both Norfolk and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tampa in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Tampa is much warmer than Norfolk. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Norfolk averages at about 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during spring. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tampa usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Tampa