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

Should you visit Naples or Vail?

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 Vail 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Naples travel costs.

Vail

Vail is a resort-filled, charming, and picturesque ski town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Vail 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 shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Vail travel costs.

Naples and Vail: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
  • Home to the Vail Ski Resort


Is there more to do in Naples or Vail?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vail. Although Naples and Vail are both popular with visitors, Vail has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vail is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Naples is known for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Vail is more touristy than Naples and is known for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also home to The Vail Ski Resort. Naples is popular for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts.

How is Naples different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Naples or Vail Better for Skiing?

Naples
Vail

Vail is renowned for skiing and snowboarding. However, Naples is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Vail. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Naples is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Naples or Vail?

Naples
Vail

Naples is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Naples offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Naples
Vail

Naples is a great beach town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Naples has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Naples or Vail Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Vail

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

Vail has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail Better for Music?

Naples
Vail

Vail is a ski town with good options for its music scene. However, Naples is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Naples is not a live music destination.

Is Naples or Vail Better for Resorts?

Naples
Vail

If luxury resorts are your style, both Naples and Vail have excellent options.

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.

There are plenty of resorts in Vail to choose from. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Is Naples or Vail Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Vail

Naples is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vail is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Naples has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Vail is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Naples or Vail Better for Beaches?

Naples
Vail

Naples is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Vail is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Naples. 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.

Vail is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or Vail Better for Hiking?

Naples
Vail

Vail is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Naples offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Vail?

Naples
Vail

Vail 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 Vail. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail More Beautiful?

Naples
Vail

Vail 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, Vail attracts visitors from all around. It is a beautiful town that has stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

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

Is Naples or Vail Better for Families?

Naples
Vail

Vail is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Vail is an extremely popular ski town to visit for families. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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.

Is Naples or Vail Better for Couples?

Naples
Vail

Vail is renowned for couples. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Vail is a great ski town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

Couples visit Naples frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.


Is Naples or Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Vail

Naples and Vail are both good 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 Vail. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Naples
Vail

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

Vail has some public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

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

Is Naples or Vail a more walkable city?

Naples
Vail

Vail is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vail. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Naples?

How long in Naples or Vail?

Both Naples and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vail than in Naples. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 3-7 days is enough time in Vail.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Naples or Vail? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Vail 3-7

One day in Naples or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Naples. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

A weekend in Naples or Vail?

Naples is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail is a great place to explore. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Naples or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Naples. This beach town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vail. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Naples or Vail?

The relaxing beach town of Naples offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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, Vail 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
    Vail Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Naples $277
    Vail $345

The average daily cost (per person) in Naples is $277, while the average daily cost in Vail is $345. 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 Vail in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Vail $174
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Vail $348
Compare Hotels in Naples and Vail

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Vail? 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 Vail


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 Vail Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Vail $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vail

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

  • Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon to Eagle County Airport-Departure Transfer: $217
  • Private Eagle County Regional / Vail Airport Transfer to Beaver Creek: $299
  • Private Departure Transfer to Vail Airport EGE: $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Vail?

Prices for flights to both Vail 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
    Vail $129

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Vail $133

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 Vail

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

  • Bike Tour or Mountain Bike down Vail Mountain: $120
  • Inflatable Kayak Adventure Colorado River: Half Day Guided Tour : $109
  • Private You-Drive Jeep Adventure in Scenic Backcountry: $1,200
  • Save the Mountain Escape Room Adventure: $40
  • Smartphone Driving Tour between Denver & Vail / Breckenridge: $12
  • Stand Up Paddle Board Colorado River Adventure: Guided Half Day : $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Vail $9.79

Sample the Local Flavors in Vail

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

  • Vail Bar Crawl: $15


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

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


Which is Bigger, Naples or Vail?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Vail, 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.