A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Newport vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Newport or Napa Valley?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newport and Napa Valley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Newport travel costs.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. Napa Valley is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Napa Valley travel costs.

Newport and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Newport or Napa Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Newport and Napa Valley are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums and attractions, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Napa Valley attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street. Napa Valley is famous for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

How is Newport different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newport or Napa Valley?

Newport
Napa Valley

Newport is a great town for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Newport or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newport
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Napa Valley has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Newport or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Newport
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Napa Valley has a large number of nightlife venues. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Newport or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

Newport
Napa Valley

Newport is a great town for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Newport attract visitors from all over. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.


Is Newport or Napa Valley Better for its Old Town?

Newport
Napa Valley

Newport is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Napa Valley does not have a historic old town.

Newport is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Napa Valley does not have a historic old town.

Is Newport or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Newport
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Napa Valley?

Newport
Napa Valley

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Newport and Napa Valley.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Napa Valley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.


Is Newport or Napa Valley More Beautiful?

Newport
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Napa Valley is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It is filled with rows of vineyards, classic chateaus, and picturesque settings, which make this a beautiful destination to explore.

Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Is Newport or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Newport
Napa Valley

Newport is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Newport or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Newport
Napa Valley

Both Newport and Napa Valley are amazing destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Newport has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Napa Valley has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.


Is Newport or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport
Napa Valley

Newport is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Newport or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Newport
Napa Valley

Newport is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Napa Valley is not a walkable town. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Newport Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Newport?

How long in Newport or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Newport or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Newport due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Napa Valley 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 Newport.


  • How many days in Newport or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newport 2-5 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Newport or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical town of Newport. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

In Napa Valley, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Newport or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Newport. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This 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.

In Napa Valley, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Napa Valley has to offer.

Five days in Newport or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the seaside town of Newport. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Newport or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napa Valley. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Napa Valley. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Newport?

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

  • Newport Prices
    USA Prices
    Napa Valley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Newport $192
    Napa Valley $333

The average daily cost (per person) in Newport is $192, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $333. 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 Newport and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newport $92
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newport $184
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Newport and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Newport or Napa Valley? 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 Newport


Hotels in Napa Valley


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: Newport Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newport $36
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

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

  • San Francisco Airport Private Transfer to Napa Valley: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Newport or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Newport 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
    Newport $78
    Napa Valley $108

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Napa Valley

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

  • Zero Proof Libations and Food Tour of Downtown Napa: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newport $17
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $32
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40
  • America's Cup Evening Sailing Adventure Newport, RI: $125
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden Hour Cruise: $45
  • Guided Tour of Newport in Open Air LSV : $129
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $100
  • Historic Scenic Tour Through Newport With Elms Admission: $45
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $41
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • 3 Hour Electric Trike Sunset Tour at Sonoma: $175
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour Around Bodega Head : $9.99
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $159
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour with Picnic Lunch: $224
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $169
  • Napa Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Napa Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Napa Valley & Sonoma Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $25
  • Napa Valley Daily Join In Group Wineries Tour Including Lunch: $125
  • Napa Valley Mountainside Small Group Winery Tour: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newport $14
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

  • Napa Exploration Wine Tasting: $78
  • Serene and Romantic Wine Tasting Next to the Vines in Napa Valley: $85
  • Guided Wine Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • ATV Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting: $150
  • ATV Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $155
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $156
  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine Tasting & History Tour (Public Tour): $189
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour | 6-8hr Private Fully Customized.*XL SUV: $250


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

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


Which is Bigger, Newport or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Newport and Napa Valley, 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 Newport or Napa Valley?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Newport or Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Napa Valley. Many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Newport is around the same temperature as Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. Newport usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Newport gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newport usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newport 73°F (23°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Newport or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Newport as well as Napa Valley. Many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Newport is cooler than Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newport in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In the autumn, Newport often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Newport gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Newport usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newport 53°F (12°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Newport or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Newport can be very cold during winter. In January, Newport is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 28°F (-2°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Newport usually receives more sunshine than Napa Valley during winter. Newport gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Newport usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newport 28°F (-2°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Newport or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Newport during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

Newport is cooler than Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Newport. In the spring, Newport often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Newport gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Newport usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newport 48°F (9°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Newport

Newport Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)