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

Should you visit Tampa or Providence?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Providence? 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 easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

Providence

Providence is a active, friendly, and fascinating city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Tampa and Providence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Tampa or Providence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tampa than Providence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tampa is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Providence attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also well known for Busch Gardens. Providence is famous for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Tampa different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tampa
Providence

Providence 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 Providence. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Providence

Providence is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Providence has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Tampa or Providence Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Providence

Providence 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 Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

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 Providence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Providence

Tampa is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Providence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can 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.

Providence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Tampa or Providence Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Providence

Tampa is a great city for the beach. However, Providence is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Tampa for it's beautiful beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Providence is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Providence?

Tampa
Providence

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

Providence has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Providence Better for Families?

Tampa
Providence

Tampa is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence 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 Tampa. 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.


Is Tampa or Providence Better for Couples?

Tampa
Providence

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

Providence is a good city for couples to visit. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

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 Providence Better for Students?

Tampa
Providence

Providence is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Tampa is not popular with students.

Providence is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Tampa is not popular with students.

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

Tampa
Providence

Providence is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Providence has some public transit options. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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 Providence a more walkable city?

Tampa
Providence

Providence is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

Providence is a very walkable destination. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Providence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Providence or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Providence?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tampa and Providence. In our opinion, Providence has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Providence 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 Providence. 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 Providence than Tampa. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Providence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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


  • How many days in Tampa or Providence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Providence 2-3

One day in Tampa or Providence?

With food around the low-key city of Tampa, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Providence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this active destination offers. 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 Providence?

With food around the destination of Tampa, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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

Tampa, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

A week in Tampa or Providence?

Tampa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Providence. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


Which place is cheaper, Providence or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, while the average daily cost in Providence is $210. 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 Tampa and Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Providence

Looking for a hotel in Tampa or Providence? 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 Tampa


Hotels in Providence


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Providence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Providence $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tampa hotels: $307
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Transfer tо Tampa Bay Cruise Port: $307
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Private Transfer to Tampa hotel/address: $207
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport TPA to Lakeland/Winter Haven: $190
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach: $190
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg Accommodation: $190
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa hotel or address : $190
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $178
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $178
  • Private Transfer from TPA to Lakeland and Winter Haven: $159
  • Private transfer from Tampa airport To Zephyrhills, FL: $155
  • Private transfer Tampa airport To Ruskin, FL: $135

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $47
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $47
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $173
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $62
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $50
  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36
  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $277

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Providence?

Prices for flights to both Providence and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Providence $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Providence $26

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour Private Floating Tiki Boat Tour in Tampa: $59
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $41
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $108
  • Christmas Lights Wonderland Deluxe Golf Cart Guided Tour in Tampa: $49
  • Discover Tampa with Local Stories from a Virtual Tour: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35

Tours and Activities in Providence

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

  • Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal: $58
  • Brews Cruise with Narragansett Beer: $60
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $40
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Haunted Boat Tours: $49
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Narrated Boat Tours: $38
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Providence Architecture Boat Tour: $65
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Providence Mob Walking Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Providence $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200
  • Tampa Heights Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Providence?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Providence. When comparing the sizes of Tampa and Providence, 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 Providence?

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 Providence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Providence. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Providence because of the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Providence this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Providence during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Providence. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Providence 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Providence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Providence. The autumn months attract visitors to Tampa because of the city's sights and attractions. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Providence this time of year.

In the autumn, Tampa is much warmer than Providence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Providence averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Providence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Providence. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 211 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Providence. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Providence 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Providence in the Winter?

Both Providence and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Providence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Providence. In January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Providence fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Providence during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Providence. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Providence in the Spring?

Both Providence and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Tampa is much warmer than Providence in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Providence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Providence. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Providence. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and Tampa

Tampa Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)