A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Naples for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Washington or Naples?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Naples can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Naples

Naples is a relaxing, peaceful, and nature-filled beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Washington and Naples: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Washington or Naples?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Naples, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Naples is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Washington is well known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Naples is well known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts.

How is Washington different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or Naples?

Washington
Naples

Washington is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Naples is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most visitors spend most of their time at the beach, on a rainy day you can check out the town's art museums, history museums, or local spots such as the Palm Cottage.


Is Washington or Naples Better for Theater?

Washington
Naples

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Naples is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Naples is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Washington or Naples? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington
Naples

Washington is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Naples makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is a favorite around town, but you'll also find plenty of Italian food. Everything from casual to fine dining is available with many local favorites to choose from.

Is Washington or Naples Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Naples

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Washington has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Naples has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.


Is Washington or Naples Better for Music?

Washington
Naples

Washington is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Naples is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Naples Better for Resorts?

Washington
Naples

Naples is great for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Naples. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and a range of prices to choose from. Most have pools and many have oceanfront views with golf facilities available. Many of the major brands such as Marriott are found here.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Washington
Naples

Naples is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Naples. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both available in the area, in part because of the impressive artificial reefs that have been constructed. Snorkeling is available at Tigertail Beach, Clam Pass, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Washington or Naples Better for Beaches?

Washington
Naples

Naples is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Naples is a very popular vacation destination. White sand beaches and calm Gulf waters make this an ideal beach destination. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite beach spot in the area, but you should also check out Naples Municipal Beach which is where you'll find the Naples Pier. If you want a more natural setting, head to Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Naples Better for Hiking?

Washington
Naples

Naples is very good for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many people include a hike when visiting Naples. The area is filled with state parks and nature reserves where you can explore and enjoy a scenic hike. There are also greenways and coastal paths nearby.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Naples?

Washington
Naples

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Naples is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping centers, outlet malls, and plenty of retail space around town. Some of the favorite shopping spots are the Mercato, Coastland Center, and Waterside Shops. For souvenirs and beach items head to Tin City Waterfront Shops.


Is Washington or Naples Better for Christmas?

Washington
Naples

Washington is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Naples does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Washington draws large crowds. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Naples does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Naples Better for Families?

Washington
Naples

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Naples.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Naples is a very kid-friendly city. You'll find relaxing beaches, nice parks, plenty of playgrounds, and even the Golisano Childrens Museum for rainy days. There are also nature centers with great walks as well as gardens and wildlife viewpoints.

Is Washington or Naples Better for Couples?

Washington
Naples

Both Washington and Naples are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Naples is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and relaxing spas make this a favorite couples destination. Golf, high end restaurants and plenty of romantic activities will ensure you have the anniversary trip or honeymoon to remember.


Is Washington or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Washington
Naples

Naples is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Naples is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or Naples Better for Students?

Washington
Naples

Washington is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Naples is not popular with students.

Washington is a very popular city for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Naples is not popular with students.

Is Washington or Naples Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington
Naples

Washington is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Naples is lacking in options for its public transit.

Washington has a great public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.


Is Washington or Naples a more walkable city?

Washington
Naples

Washington is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Naples is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is relatively walkable, but to fully explore the region you'll need your own car.

For even more information, also check out Is Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Naples Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Naples or Washington?

How long in Washington or Naples?

In either Washington or Naples, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than Naples because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-5 days is enough time in Naples.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington than Naples 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 Washington.


  • How many days in Washington or Naples? Ideal Length of Stay
    Washington 3-7 
    Naples 2-5

One day in Washington or Naples?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the nature-filled beach town of Naples, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Washington or Naples?

Washington is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Naples, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.


Five days in Washington or Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Naples, a popular beach town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Naples?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Naples is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Naples or Washington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, while the average daily cost in Naples is $226. 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 Washington and Naples in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Naples $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Naples $238
Compare Hotels in Washington and Naples

Looking for a hotel in Washington or Naples? 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 Washington


Hotels in Naples


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Naples Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Naples $62
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Washington, DC: Airport Transfer to/from DCA or IAD: $350
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • Washington to Newark Airport Departure Private Transfer: $187
  • Washington to NY Kennedy Airport(JFK)- Departure Private Transfer: $199
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA): Transfer to Washington: $173
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $52
  • Washington DC: Private Transfer to Airports or Baltimore: $160
  • Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110
  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Washington Airport (DCA) to Washington RoundTrip Private Transfer: $116

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Naples

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

  • Naples to Southwest Florida Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $102

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Naples?

Prices for flights to both Naples and Washington 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
    Washington $38
    Naples $70
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $69
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
  • Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $85
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $97
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise: $144
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $151
  • Private Traditional Filipino Cooking Class Near Washington DC : $154

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

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

  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Naples $26

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • See DC In A Day: Guided Small Group Ultimate Day Tour : $99
  • 2 For 1! DC Highlights & Arlington Cemetery Tour Bundle: $84
  • 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill: $55
  • 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour in Washington DC: $25
  • 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour : $75
  • 2-Hour National Mall Walking Tour from Washington DC: $25
  • 4 Hours Washington Tour with Boat Cruise: $169
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Washington DC's Monumental Marvels: $25
  • Admission & Guided Tour of Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria: $99
  • African American History Private Tour w/ Museum Entry: $450
  • African American History Tour with Museum Admission: $89
  • African American History Tour with Museum of African American History Ticket: $90

Tours and Activities in Naples

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

  • 10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour : $160
  • 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour : $59
  • 2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour: $100
  • 2 Hours Cycle Boat Sunset Tour in Marco Island : $59
  • 3 Hour Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour: $120
  • 3 Hour Hobie Kayak Adventure In Bonita Springs: $70
  • 90 Minute Guided Moped Tour in Naples Florida: $62
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $55
  • Backwater Adventure's CraigCat Tours of the 10,000 Islands: $130
  • Barrier Island Shelling Tour: $125
  • Best of Marco Island Tour: $100
  • Bicycle Tour of Naples Florida Scenic Ride: $62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Naples $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.: $59
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
  • Full-Day Private Virginia Wine Tour Experience from Washington : $242
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255

Sample the Local Flavors in Naples

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

  • Epic Naples Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12


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


Which is Bigger, Washington or Naples?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Naples, 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.