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

Should you visit Naples or Memphis?

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 Memphis 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 nature-filled, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. Naples offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Naples travel costs.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and museums. See Memphis travel costs.

Naples and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Naples or Memphis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Memphis. Although Naples and Memphis are popular destinations, Memphis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Memphis is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Naples attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Naples is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Naples different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples
Memphis

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Memphis and Naples.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Naples. 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.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.


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

Naples
Memphis

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Naples and Memphis.

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, Memphis makes for a great culinary experience. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Is Naples or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Memphis

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

Memphis has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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 Naples or Memphis Better for Music?

Naples
Memphis

Memphis is renowned for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

Memphis has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Naples is not a live music destination.


Is Naples or Memphis Better for Resorts?

Naples
Memphis

Naples is a great beach town for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis is not a resort destination.

Naples is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Naples or Memphis Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Memphis

Naples is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Memphis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Naples has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Memphis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Memphis Better for Beaches?

Naples
Memphis

Naples is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Naples are among the best in the world. 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.

Memphis is not a beach destination.


Is Naples or Memphis Better for Hiking?

Naples
Memphis

Naples is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Naples has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Memphis?

Naples
Memphis

Naples is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Naples has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Naples or Memphis More Beautiful?

Naples
Memphis

Naples is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Naples offers plenty of beauty for visitors. White sand beaches and beautiful water make this a relaxing and scenic destination.

Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Naples or Memphis Better for Families?

Naples
Memphis

Naples is a great beach town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Naples. 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.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Naples or Memphis Better for Couples?

Naples
Memphis

Naples is a great beach town for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Naples is a great beach town if you're traveling as 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.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Naples or Memphis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Memphis

Naples and Memphis are both nice destinations for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Memphis. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.


Is Naples or Memphis Better for Students?

Naples
Memphis

Memphis is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Naples is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Naples is not popular with students.

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

Naples
Memphis

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Naples and Memphis.

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 Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Is Naples or Memphis a more walkable city?

Naples
Memphis

Naples and Memphis are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.


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

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Naples?

How long in Naples or Memphis?

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

Families should spend more time in Naples than Memphis. 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 Memphis. 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 Memphis 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 Memphis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Memphis 2-3

One day in Naples or Memphis?

In Naples, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Memphis. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Naples or Memphis?

In Naples, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Naples has to offer.

Memphis is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, 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 Naples or Memphis?

Naples is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Naples has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Memphis. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Memphis?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Naples. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of Memphis. This city 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, Memphis 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
    Memphis Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Naples $277
    Memphis $199

The average daily cost (per person) in Naples is $277, while the average daily cost in Memphis is $199. 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 Memphis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Memphis $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Memphis $168
Compare Hotels in Naples and Memphis

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Memphis? 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 Memphis


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 Memphis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Memphis $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Memphis Airport Private Black Car Transfer: $149
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $171

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Memphis?

Prices for flights to both Memphis 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
    Memphis $74

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
  • Dubai Chocolate Cooking class Carole's Place Cafe Naples Fl: $150
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Typical Food Prices in Memphis

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


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Memphis $45

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 Boat Tour + Naturalist Led Walk in the Everglades!: $169
  • 10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour : $160
  • 2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour: $110
  • 2 Hour Naples Sunset Adventure: $64
  • 2-hour Shelling Boat Tour in the 10,000 Islands: $110
  • 2Hour Everglades Kayak Safari Adventure Through Mangrove Tunnels: $89
  • 4 Hour Keewaydin Island Beach Tour: $106
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $49
  • Avi's Premium Dolphin Tour by Jet Ski: $295
  • Backwater Adventure's CraigCat Tours of the 10,000 Islands: $130
  • Barrier Island Shelling Tour: $125
  • Beginner Friendly 1-Hour Paddle Tour by Kayak or SUP: $45

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour: $88
  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis: $15
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Elvis Presley's Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis: $102
  • From Elvis Presley Birthplace and Park Guided Tour: $215
  • From Official Elvis Birthplace Tour of Tupelo: $102
  • Guided Memphis City Tour that includes Riverboat Cruise: $85
  • Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour: Memphis Beyond Beale: $33
  • Memphis 2-Hour Historic Walking Tour: Beyond Beale: $33
  • Memphis 3.5h Walking Tour with Beale Street & Sun Studio: $175

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Memphis $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Tennessee Bar Crawl Brews and Blues Bar Crawl: $15
  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $31
  • Guided Bar Crawl on a Pedal Bike: $40
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • #1 Way To See Beale Street, Bar Crawl and Murals: $430


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

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


Which is Bigger, Naples or Memphis?

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