A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Berkeley for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Panama City or Berkeley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Berkeley, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Panama City

Panama City is a cosmopolitan, fun-filled, and active beach town. Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Panama City travel costs.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. Berkeley is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Berkeley travel costs.

Panama City and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Berkeley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Berkeley are both popular with visitors, Panama City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Panama City is more popular for its music, resorts, and beaches, while Berkeley is known for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Panama City is more touristy than Berkeley and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also home to Pier Park. Berkeley is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Panama City different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or Berkeley?

Berkeley is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Panama City or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berkeley is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Panama City or Berkeley has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Panama City know how to have a good time. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

The nightlife in Berkeley has something for everybody. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Music?

Panama City is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Berkeley is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Panama City active and fun. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Berkeley is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Panama City is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Panama City is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Panama City. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Berkeley?

Berkeley is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Berkeley is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Panama City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Is Panama City or Berkeley More Beautiful?

Panama City and Berkeley are somewhat similar when it comes to the good scenery.

Panama City is a beautiful place to visit, too. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

Berkeley offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Families?

Panama City is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Panama City is an amazing family-friendly beach town to visit. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Berkeley is a family-friendly beach town. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Panama City is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Panama City is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley is a great destination for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Berkeley is a great city to visit for backpackers. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Students?

Panama City and Berkeley are superb places to visit for students.

Panama City is a great beach town to visit as a student. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Is Panama City or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Berkeley is top-notch. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is mostly limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

Is Panama City or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

For even more information, also check out Is Panama City Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Panama City and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Panama City than in Berkeley. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Panama City 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 Berkeley.

One day in Panama City or Berkeley?

The beach town of Panama City offers live music and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the progressive city of Berkeley. 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.

A weekend in Panama City or Berkeley?

Panama City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the progressive destination of Berkeley. This city 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.

Five days in Panama City or Berkeley?

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

The diverse city of Berkeley offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or Berkeley?

Panama City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Panama City has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Berkeley, 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 Panama City or Berkeley?

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 Panama City or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Berkeley. The summer months attract visitors to Panama City because of the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In the summer, Panama City is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Panama City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Panama City usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Panama City or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Berkeley. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Panama City usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Panama City for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Panama City is around the same temperature as Berkeley in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Panama City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Berkeley. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Panama City or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Panama City during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Panama City in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Panama City is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Berkeley averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Panama City usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Panama City