A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Norfolk vs. Sonoma for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Attractions

Should you visit Norfolk or Sonoma?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Sonoma? 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Norfolk travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a serene, relaxing, and scenic county. The famous beauty of Sonoma is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Sonoma travel costs.

Norfolk and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Norfolk or Sonoma?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sonoma than Norfolk, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sonoma is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Norfolk is more popular for its museums and attractions. Sonoma is more touristy than Norfolk and is popular for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. Also, Sonoma is famous for Buena Vista Winery. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Norfolk or Sonoma?

Norfolk is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Norfolk. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.

Is the Food Better in Norfolk or Sonoma? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sonoma is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Sonoma is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Sonoma is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Sonoma know how to have a good time. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Sonoma is a great destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Sonoma is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Sonoma is a great destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Sonoma is considered a top beach destination. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Sonoma is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Sonoma. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Sonoma?

Sonoma is a great destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Sonoma is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Sonoma is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Sonoma is one of the main draws. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Norfolk or Sonoma.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Norfolk. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Sonoma offers lots of family activities. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Sonoma is a must-visit destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Sonoma makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Norfolk is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Norfolk or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Norfolk is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

Sonoma is not a walkable city. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

For even more information, also check out Is Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Sonoma Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Sonoma?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sonoma than Norfolk 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 Sonoma.

One day in Norfolk or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Norfolk. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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

A weekend in Norfolk or Sonoma?

Norfolk is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Sonoma, 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 Sonoma has to offer.

Five days in Norfolk or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Norfolk. 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.

Sonoma is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Norfolk or Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Norfolk. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Sonoma. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Sonoma. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Sonoma?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk and Sonoma, 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 Norfolk or Sonoma?

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 Norfolk or Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma and Norfolk during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Norfolk in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sonoma for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Norfolk is generally a little warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 79°F (26°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually gets more rain in July than Sonoma. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Sonoma in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Sonoma. Most visitors come to Norfolk for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Norfolk is around the same temperature as Sonoma in the autumn. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Sonoma fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Norfolk or Sonoma in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Sonoma. The winter months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

The weather in Norfolk can be very cold. In the winter, Norfolk is much colder than Sonoma. Typically, the winter temperatures in Norfolk in January average around 39°F (4°C), and Sonoma averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Norfolk usually gets less rain in January than Sonoma. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Sonoma in the Spring?

Both Sonoma and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Sonoma for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Norfolk is generally around the same temperature as Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 58°F (14°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Norfolk