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

Should you visit Panama City or Breckenridge?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Breckenridge, 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 active, cosmopolitan, and fun-filled beach town. Panama City is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping. See Panama City travel costs.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a charming, breathtaking, and adventurous ski resort. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Panama City and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • 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


Is there more to do in Panama City or Breckenridge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Breckenridge than Panama City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Breckenridge is better known for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Panama City is more popular for its nightlife, music, and beaches. Panama City is more touristy than Breckenridge and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Breckenridge is well known for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Also, Breckenridge is famous for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Panama City different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for winter skiing. However, Panama City is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Breckenridge is among the best in the world. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Panama City is not a skiing destination.


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

Panama City
Breckenridge

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Panama City and Breckenridge can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Panama City. 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.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Panama City is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

Panama City offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Music?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Panama City is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

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

Breckenridge is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Breckenridge

With a similar set of options, notable resorts can be found in both Panama City and Breckenridge.

With a selection of resorts, Panama City makes a nice vacation spot. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Panama City is a well-known place for the beach. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Panama City is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Panama City does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Breckenridge to see the old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Panama City does not have a historic old town.


Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Breckenridge has hiking trails worth exploring. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Breckenridge?

Panama City
Breckenridge

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

Breckenridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

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 Breckenridge More Beautiful?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.


Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Panama City is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Panama City is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Panama City and Breckenridge are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Breckenridge is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

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

Panama City
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Panama City or Breckenridge Better for Students?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Panama City is a well-known place for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

Panama City is a very popular beach town for students and younger travelers. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Breckenridge is not popular with students.

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

Panama City
Breckenridge

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and Breckenridge.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Panama City or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Panama City
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort 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 Breckenridge on foot is easy. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

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 Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Breckenridge?

Both Panama City and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Breckenridge has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Breckenridge than Panama City. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge.


  • How many days in Panama City or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Panama City 3-7 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Panama City or Breckenridge?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the live music and food that this cosmopolitan beach town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. Most people visit for the skiing. 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 Breckenridge?

Panama City is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This ski resort offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Panama City or Breckenridge?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this cosmopolitan destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.


A week in Panama City or Breckenridge?

Panama City is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this ski resort.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Panama City?

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

  • Panama City Prices
    USA Prices
    Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Panama City $272
    Breckenridge $301

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $272, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $301. 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 Panama City and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Breckenridge $143
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Breckenridge $286
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Breckenridge? 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 Panama City


Hotels in Breckenridge


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: Panama City Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Breckenridge $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Panama City 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
    Panama City $115
    Breckenridge $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Breckenridge $82

Tours and Activities in Panama City

Here are a few actual costs in Panama City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Sunset Dolphin Cruise in St. Andrews Bay: $29
  • Panama City Beach Dolphin Sightseeing Sail: $35
  • Panama City Beach: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Combo Ticket: $37
  • Panama City Beach: Dolphin Sightseeing Trip by Catamaran: $38
  • Shell Island Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour in Panama City Beach: $40
  • Sunset Cruise with Good Jibez Only in Panama City Beach: $40
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $40
  • Panama City Beach: 90 Minute Sunset Tiki Boat Tour: $44
  • 90 Minute Sunset Tiki Boat Tour: $45
  • Panama City Beach: Shell Island Catamaran Snorkeling Tour: $49
  • Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour: $50
  • Original CRUISIN TIKIS 90 min Cruise - Grand Lagoon : $54

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • Breckenridge Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $12
  • Self-Guided Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Astronomy Tour in Breckenridge : $59
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Ridden-Fall Foliage EBike Guided Tour of Breckenridge: $95
  • Self Guided Ebike Tour of Breckenridge Lake Loop: $108

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Breckenridge $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

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

  • Ridden-Fall Foliage Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85
  • Ridden-Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer and Distillery Tour: $85


When comparing the travel costs between Panama City and Breckenridge, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Breckenridge Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Panama City or Breckenridge?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Breckenridge, 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.