A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Bern vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit New Bern or New York City?

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

Should I visit New Bern or New York City? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

New Bern

New Bern is a laid back, quaint, and charming town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See New Bern travel costs.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. New York City is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See New York City travel costs.

New Bern and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Bern or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although New Bern and New York City are both popular with visitors, New York City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New York City is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while New Bern is known for its small town charm. New York City is more touristy than New Bern and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. New Bern is popular for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is New Bern different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Bern or New York City?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in New York City that are not to be missed. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

New Bern offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

Is New Bern or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is an unbeatable place for theatre. However, New Bern is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in New York City draw crowds from around the world. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

New Bern is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New Bern or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, New York City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

New Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Is New Bern or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, New Bern is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in New York City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

New Bern doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

Is New Bern or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is an unbeatable place for live music. However, New Bern is not a live music destination.

New York City is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

New Bern is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Bern or New York City?

New York City is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

New York City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting New Bern. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.

Is New Bern or New York City More Beautiful?

New York City is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, New Bern is not a destination known for its beauty.

New York City is a gorgeous place to visit. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

New Bern is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New Bern or New York City Better for Families?

New York City is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

New York City is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is New Bern or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

New York City makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

New Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Is New Bern or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is well known for backpackers. However, New Bern is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

New Bern is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not popular with backpackers in part because it's a small town that most people breeze through on their way to the beach.

Is New Bern or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is an unbeatable place for students. However, New Bern is not popular with students.

Many students frequent New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

New Bern is not popular with students.

Is New Bern or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, New Bern is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in New York City can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

Public transit is quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

Is New Bern or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

New Bern is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is New Bern Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or New Bern?

How long in New Bern or New York City?

Both New Bern and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in New Bern. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for New Bern, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than New Bern 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 New York City.

One day in New Bern or New York City?

Even though New Bern is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

New York City is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in New Bern or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Bern. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in New Bern or New York City?

New Bern is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

New York City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New York City, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in New Bern or New York City?

New Bern is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, New Bern or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 340 times larger than the population of New Bern. When comparing the sizes of New Bern and New York City, 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 New Bern or New York City?

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 New Bern or New York City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to New Bern as well as New York City. Most visitors come to New Bern for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to New York City because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

New Bern is around the same temperature as New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in New Bern averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in New York City. New Bern receives a lot of rain in the summer. New Bern usually gets more rain in July than New York City. New Bern gets 6.6 inches (169 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Bern or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City and New Bern are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to New Bern because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

In the autumn, New Bern is a little warmer than New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in New Bern in October average around 65°F (18°C), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In October, New Bern usually receives more rain than New York City. New Bern gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit New Bern or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City and New Bern during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to New Bern this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to New York City for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in New York City. In January, New Bern is generally much warmer than New York City. Daily temperatures in New Bern average around 44°F (7°C), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Bern. New Bern usually gets more rain in January than New York City. New Bern gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Bern or New York City in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both New Bern and New York City. Many travelers come to New Bern for the small town charm. Furthermore, many visitors come to New York City in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

New Bern is a little warmer than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in New Bern averages around 62°F (16°C) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In April, New Bern usually receives less rain than New York City. New Bern gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New York City and New Bern