A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit La Paz or Napa Valley?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Napa Valley can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See La Paz travel costs.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a picturesque, idyllic, and scenic area. You'll find world class beauty in Napa Valley as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Napa Valley travel costs.

La Paz and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • 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 La Paz or Napa Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Paz than Napa Valley, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. La Paz is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Napa Valley is known for its food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Napa Valley is popular for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

How is La Paz different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

La Paz
Napa Valley

La Paz is a great city for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

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 La Paz or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Napa Valley have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

La Paz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Is La Paz or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Napa Valley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Is La Paz or Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Napa Valley

La Paz is a city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is La Paz or Napa Valley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Napa Valley

La Paz is a great city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Napa Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

La Paz is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Napa Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Napa Valley

La Paz is terrific for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

La Paz is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

La Paz
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Napa Valley is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Napa Valley?

La Paz
Napa Valley

Both La Paz and Napa Valley are great shopping destinations.

La Paz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is La Paz or Napa Valley More Beautiful?

La Paz
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Napa Valley as well. It is filled with rows of vineyards, classic chateaus, and picturesque settings, which make this a beautiful destination to explore.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Napa Valley Better for Families?

La Paz
Napa Valley

La Paz is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 La Paz or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

La Paz
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Is La Paz or Napa Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Napa Valley

La Paz is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Napa Valley is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.

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

La Paz
Napa Valley

La Paz is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

While La Paz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

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 La Paz or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

La Paz
Napa Valley

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

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

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 La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either La Paz or Napa Valley. In our opinion, La Paz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in La Paz than Napa Valley. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

Couples should spend more time in Napa Valley than La Paz. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Napa Valley 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 La Paz.


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

One day in La Paz or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the cultural city of La Paz. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Napa Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in La Paz or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of La Paz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in La Paz or Napa Valley?

The authentic city of La Paz offers museums and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napa Valley. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting La Paz. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the picturesque destination of Napa Valley. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or La Paz?

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

  • La Paz Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Napa Valley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Napa Valley $333

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, 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 La Paz and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in La Paz 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 La Paz


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159
  • La Paz hotels to La Paz International Airport (LAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and La Paz 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
    La Paz $60
    Napa Valley $108

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

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

  • 3 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $77
  • 3 hrs SEAFOOD Tour in La Paz: $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $11
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • 3 Hours La Paz Whale Shark First Class Snorkeling Tour: $167
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $127
  • Birding La Paz Mexico 4hrs.Tour : $160
  • Birding Tour in La Paz Mexico: $177
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • Cultural and Culinary Tour of El Triunfo, Baja California Sur: $250
  • Desert Off Road Adventure Tour in La Paz: $261
  • Desert and Dunes ATV Adventure in La Paz BCS Mexico: $195
  • Espíritu Santo and Balandra Beach Combo Tour: Sea Lion Snorkeling: $250
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145

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
    La Paz $11
    Napa Valley $66

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 La Paz and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley is more expensive. And not only is La Paz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to La Paz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Paz 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 La Paz.

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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Napa Valley?

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

The summer brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Napa Valley. The summer months attract visitors to La Paz because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

In the summer, La Paz is a little warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Napa Valley averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the summer, La Paz often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets more rain in July than Napa Valley. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to La Paz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

La Paz is much warmer than Napa Valley in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Napa Valley. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Napa Valley. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Napa Valley. Many visitors come to La Paz in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, La Paz is much warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Napa Valley averages at about 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and La Paz

La Paz Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)