A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Naples vs. Bar Harbor for Beaches, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Naples or Bar Harbor?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Naples and Bar Harbor 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.

Naples

Naples is a relaxing, peaceful, and nature-filled beach town. Naples is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Naples travel costs.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a quaint, charming, and picturesque coastal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Bar Harbor attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Bar Harbor travel costs.

Naples and Bar Harbor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Naples or Bar Harbor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Naples than Bar Harbor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Naples is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bar Harbor is more popular for its shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Naples is well known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Also, Naples is famous for Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach. Bar Harbor is well known for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park.

How is Naples different from Bar Harbor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Naples or Bar Harbor?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Naples is a beach town with good options for its sights and museums. However, Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Naples
Bar Harbor

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Naples and Bar Harbor.

Naples has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bar Harbor makes for a great culinary experience. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

Is Naples or Bar Harbor Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Naples is a beach town with good options for nightlife. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Naples. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

Bar Harbor doesn't offer many options. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Is Naples or Bar Harbor Better for Resorts?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Naples is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Naples, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Bar Harbor makes a nice vacation spot. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.


Is Naples or Bar Harbor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Naples is a beach town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bar Harbor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Bar Harbor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Bar Harbor Better for Beaches?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Naples is terrific for its beaches. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for the beach.

Naples is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Bar Harbor offers a nice beach destination. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Is Naples or Bar Harbor Better for Hiking?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Both Naples and Bar Harbor are destinations which offer notable hiking.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Bar Harbor offers some nice hiking trails. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.


Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Bar Harbor?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.

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 Naples or Bar Harbor More Beautiful?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Bar Harbor attracts visitors from all around. Surrounded by the water and beautiful landscaping, the town offers visitors plenty of beauty.

Naples is a gorgeous place to visit. White sand beaches and beautiful water make this a relaxing and scenic destination.

Is Naples or Bar Harbor Better for Families?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Naples is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly beach town. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.


Is Naples or Bar Harbor Better for Couples?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Both Naples and Bar Harbor are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Naples makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Bar Harbor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

Is Naples or Bar Harbor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Naples is a beach town with good options for backpackers. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Naples is a good beach town to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

Bar Harbor is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's a small town with mostly high end accommodation so budget travelers and backpackers will struggle to find a place to stay.

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

Naples
Bar Harbor

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Naples and Bar Harbor.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.


Is Naples or Bar Harbor a more walkable city?

Naples
Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Bar Harbor is a very walkable destination. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

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 Naples Worth Visiting? and Is Bar Harbor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bar Harbor or Naples?

How long in Naples or Bar Harbor?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Naples and Bar Harbor. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Naples than in Bar Harbor. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bar Harbor.

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

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

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


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

One day in Naples or Bar Harbor?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the peaceful 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.

Bar Harbor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Naples or Bar Harbor?

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.

Bar Harbor is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Naples or Bar Harbor?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bar Harbor. 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 Naples or Bar Harbor?

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.

Bar Harbor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bar Harbor or Naples?

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

  • Naples Prices
    USA Prices
    Bar Harbor Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Naples $277
    Bar Harbor $243

The average daily cost (per person) in Naples is $277, while the average daily cost in Bar Harbor is $243. 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 Naples and Bar Harbor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Bar Harbor $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Bar Harbor $234
Compare Hotels in Naples and Bar Harbor

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Bar Harbor? 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 Naples


Hotels in Bar Harbor


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: Naples Hotel Prices and Bar Harbor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Bar Harbor $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Bar Harbor?

Prices for flights to both Bar Harbor and Naples 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
    Naples $121
    Bar Harbor $98

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

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

  • Tiramisu Cooking Class Carole's Place Cafe Naples, Fl: $99
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class Carole's Place Cafe Naples Fl: $140
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Typical Food Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • West Street Cafe (for 4)
    $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Bar Harbor $39

Tours and Activities in Naples

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

  • Self-Guided Island Tour: CLEAR/Standard Kayak, SUP-Bonita Springs: $30
  • Easy Ride Pedal Kayak Tour Marco Island & Naples (Pedal or Paddle: $41
  • Guided Tour of Naples on a Vintage Trolley (Hop on - Hop off): $45
  • Naples Florida: Electric Mix & Match Tour - Fun For All Ages: $46
  • Naples Florida: Downtown Electric Trike Tour - Family Fun: $46
  • Naples Florida: Downtown Electric Moped Tour - Fun For All: $46
  • Naples, Florida: Guided Trolley Tour (Hop-On Hop-Off): $47
  • Catamaran Cruises with Wildlife Views: $49
  • Segway Tour of Downtown Naples FL - Explore The Fun Way: $49
  • Trike Tour of Naples Florida - Fun Activity Downtown Naples: $49
  • Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour - Explore Naples Florida: $49
  • Segway Electric Moped Tour - Fun Activity Downtown Naples: $49

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • Acadia National Park Entrance Fee
    $25
  • Sunset Cruise (for 4)
    $96

Tours and Activities in Bar Harbor

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bar Harbor are as follows:

  • 4 Hour Private Tour: Acadia, Fjord, Gardens & Mansions: $700
  • 90-minute Ghost Walking Tour in Bar Harbor: $33
  • Acadia Fat tire Ebike Tours: $190
  • Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike: $427
  • Acadia Mount Desert Island Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $25
  • Acadia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Acadia's Ocean Path Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Bar Harbor Premium Driving Tour With Thunder Hole & Acadia: $159
  • Bar Harbor Premium Tour with Cadillac Mountain and Acadia Park: $149
  • Bar Harbor Walking Tour: $30
  • Bar Harbor, Maine: Culinary Walking Tour with Tastings: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Bar Harbor $30


When comparing the travel costs between Naples and Bar Harbor, 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 Naples Expensive? and Is Bar Harbor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Naples or Bar Harbor?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bar Harbor. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Bar Harbor, 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.