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

Should you visit Naples or Minneapolis?

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 Minneapolis 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 peaceful, nature-filled, and relaxing beach town. Naples is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Naples travel costs.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a diverse, dynamic, and innovative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Naples and Minneapolis: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Naples or Minneapolis?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Naples and Minneapolis are both popular with visitors, Minneapolis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Minneapolis is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Naples is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Naples is more touristy than Minneapolis and is known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Minneapolis is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also home to Mall of America.

How is Naples different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Minneapolis. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

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


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

Naples
Minneapolis

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

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, Minneapolis makes for a great culinary experience. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Naples or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Minneapolis

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

Minneapolis has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

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 Minneapolis Better for Resorts?

Naples
Minneapolis

Naples is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.


Is Naples or Minneapolis Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Minneapolis

Naples is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Minneapolis Better for Beaches?

Naples
Minneapolis

Naples is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or Minneapolis Better for Hiking?

Naples
Minneapolis

Naples is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Minneapolis?

Naples
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Minneapolis specifically to go shopping. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

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 Minneapolis More Beautiful?

Naples
Minneapolis

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

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

Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Naples or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Naples
Minneapolis

Both Naples and Minneapolis are high quality to visit with kids.

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.

Minneapolis is a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.


Is Naples or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Naples
Minneapolis

Naples is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Minneapolis is a good beach town for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Naples or Minneapolis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Minneapolis

Naples is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.

Is Naples or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Naples
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Naples is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Naples is not popular with students.


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

Naples
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Naples is lacking in options for its public transit.

Minneapolis has some public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

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

Is Naples or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Naples
Minneapolis

Naples and Minneapolis are good 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.

Minneapolis is somewhat walkable. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

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

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Naples?

How long in Naples or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Naples or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Naples due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

Families should spend more time in Naples than Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Minneapolis 2-4

One day in Naples or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing beach town of Naples. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Minneapolis. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Naples or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Naples. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town 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.

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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 Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the nature-filled beach town of Naples. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Minneapolis. Don't miss the shopping, 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 Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Naples. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the innovative destination of Minneapolis. 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, Minneapolis 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
    Minneapolis Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Naples $277
    Minneapolis $235

The average daily cost (per person) in Naples is $277, while the average daily cost in Minneapolis is $235. 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 Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in Naples and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Minneapolis? 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 Minneapolis


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 Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Minneapolis $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

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

  • Rochester: One-Way Shared Transfer to or from MSP: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis 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
    Minneapolis $70

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

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

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Minneapolis $27

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
  • 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
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $49
  • Backwater Adventure's CraigCat Tours of the 10,000 Islands: $130
  • Best Family Activity - Trike Tour Of Naples - All Ages Fun!: $69
  • Best of Marco Island Tour: $100
  • CLEAR Kayak Sunset & Light Tour - Bonita Springs / Ft Myers Beach: $79
  • Dolphin Watch/Eco Cruise: $97
  • Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Naples with Florida History: $65

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

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

  • Mall of America: Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket: $31
  • Minneapolis & St. Paul: Private Highlights Riding Tour: $550
  • Mall of America 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $47
  • Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball Game Ticket: $33
  • Mississippi River Cruise with Narration: $28
  • Past and Present Walking Tour: $60
  • Ultimate Minneapolis Walking Tour & Weatherproof Skyway Loop: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Minneapolis $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

Also in Minneapolis, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories: $79
  • Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour in Minneapolis: $100


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Naples and Minneapolis, we can see that Naples is more expensive. And not only is Minneapolis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Minneapolis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis.

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


Which is Bigger, Naples or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Minneapolis, 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.