A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chattanooga vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Napa Valley? 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.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. The famous beauty of Napa Valley is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Napa Valley travel costs.

Chattanooga and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Napa Valley than Chattanooga. While Chattanooga is larger than Napa Valley, Napa Valley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Napa Valley is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Napa Valley is more touristy than Chattanooga and is popular for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also well known for Louis M. Martini Winery. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Chattanooga is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chattanooga. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Chattanooga or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Napa Valley is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Chattanooga or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Napa Valley know how to have a good time. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Is Chattanooga or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

If you're looking to go hiking, Chattanooga and Napa Valley both have excellent trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.


Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Chattanooga or Napa Valley More Beautiful?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Napa Valley is one of the main draws. It is filled with rows of vineyards, classic chateaus, and picturesque settings, which make this a beautiful destination to explore.

Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chattanooga or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Chattanooga or Napa Valley.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Chattanooga. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Napa Valley offers lots of family activities. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.


Is Chattanooga or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Napa Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

Is Chattanooga or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Chattanooga is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

The public transit in Chattanooga can get you to most places easily. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Chattanooga or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Napa Valley

Chattanooga is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

Napa Valley is not a walkable city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Chattanooga or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Napa Valley due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Chattanooga, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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


  • How many days in Chattanooga or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Chattanooga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the idyllic area of Napa Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the bustling destination of Chattanooga. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the picturesque destination of Napa Valley. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This area 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 Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

The bustling city of Chattanooga offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

The picturesque area of Napa Valley offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chattanooga. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Napa Valley. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Chattanooga?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Chattanooga Prices
    USA Prices
    Napa Valley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chattanooga $225
    Napa Valley $333

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $225, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $333. 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 Chattanooga and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Napa Valley? 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 Chattanooga


Hotels in Napa Valley


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Napa Valley $183
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chattanooga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chattanooga:

  • Private One Way Transfer from/to Chattanooga Airport and Hotels: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $103
    Napa Valley $108

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chattanooga.

  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • Southside Food Tour with Lunch: $129
  • Downtown Food Tour with 3-4 Tastings: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chattanooga $52
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

Here are a few actual costs in Chattanooga for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bridge to Fun a Chattanooga Rydable Experience : $69
  • Bridge to Fun: A Chattanooga 1 Hour Rydable Experience: $69
  • Chattanooga "C-Block Prison Break" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga "Locker Room Lockdown: Mascot Rescue" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $40
  • Chattanooga "Secret Agent" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $40
  • Chattanooga "The Inheritance Mystery Room" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga "Vaccine: Search For The Zombie Cure" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga Blues to Bridges Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $32
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $24
  • Chattanooga’s Rydables Tour from Trains to Bridges: $89
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $30

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • Self-Guided Napa Art Walking Tour: $9.00
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour Around Bodega Head : $9.99
  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $25
  • Napa Valley & Sonoma Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $25
  • Napa Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Snob Free Sonoma Plaza Walking Experience: $109
  • Safari West Sonoma Adventure Tour: $110
  • Napa Valley Daily Join In Group Wineries Tour Including Lunch: $125
  • Napa Valley Wine Trolley Castle Tour: $135
  • Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour: $135
  • Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour: $135
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chattanooga $24
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Chattanooga

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

  • Distillery Tour at Gate 11: $18
  • Chattanooga Wine Tasting with Art Sightseeing Tour: $180

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

  • Guided Wine Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • ATV Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting: $150
  • ATV Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $155
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $156
  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine Tasting & History Tour (Public Tour): $179
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour | 6-8hr Private Fully Customized.*XL SUV: $250


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

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


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Napa Valley, 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 Chattanooga or Napa Valley?

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 Chattanooga or Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Chattanooga during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chattanooga in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the summer, Chattanooga often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in July than Napa Valley. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Napa Valley. Most visitors come to Chattanooga for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chattanooga is around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chattanooga usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during autumn. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Napa Valley. The winter months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

The weather in Chattanooga can be very cold. In January, Chattanooga is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In the winter, Chattanooga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the winter. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in January than Napa Valley. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during spring. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In April, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)