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

Should you visit Panama City or Cleveland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Cleveland, 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 fun-filled, active, and cosmopolitan beach town. Panama City is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Panama City travel costs.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a diverse, authentic, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cleveland travel costs.

Panama City and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Panama City or Cleveland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Cleveland are popular destinations, Panama City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Panama City is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cleveland attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and music. Panama City is more touristy than Cleveland and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also well known for Pier Park. Cleveland is famous for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Panama City different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

Panama City
Cleveland

Cleveland 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 Cleveland can be an interesting and educational experience. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Panama City
Cleveland

Panama City is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Panama City or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Cleveland

Panama City is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Panama City has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Panama City or Cleveland Better for Music?

Panama City
Cleveland

Cleveland is a great destination for its live music scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

Cleveland has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

You'll find some good live music in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.


Is Panama City or Cleveland Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Cleveland

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

Panama City has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Cleveland

Panama City is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Cleveland 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.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Cleveland?

Panama City
Cleveland

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cleveland and Panama City.

Panama City offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Cleveland has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.


Is Panama City or Cleveland More Beautiful?

Panama City
Cleveland

Panama City is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cleveland is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Cleveland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Panama City or Cleveland Better for Families?

Panama City
Cleveland

Panama City is an amazing beach town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Panama City or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Panama City
Cleveland

Panama City is a very popular place for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Panama City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.


Is Panama City or Cleveland Better for Students?

Panama City
Cleveland

Panama City is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland is not popular with 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.

Cleveland is not popular with students.

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

Panama City
Cleveland

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

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 Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Is Panama City or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Panama City
Cleveland

Cleveland is a city with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

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 Cleveland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Panama City and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Panama City than in Cleveland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

Families should spend more time in Panama City than Cleveland. 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 Cleveland. 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland.


  • How many days in Panama City or Cleveland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Panama City 3-7 
    Cleveland 1-3

One day in Panama City or Cleveland?

You'll find food and shopping around the beach town of Panama City. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the under-rated city of Cleveland. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Panama City or Cleveland?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the cosmopolitan destination of Panama City. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Cleveland. 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 Cleveland?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the active beach town of Panama City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

The authentic city of Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

Panama City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Panama City, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cleveland. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Cleveland 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
    Cleveland Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Panama City $272
    Cleveland $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $272, while the average daily cost in Cleveland is $158. 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 Cleveland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Cleveland $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Cleveland $150
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Cleveland

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Cleveland? 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 Cleveland


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 Cleveland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Cleveland $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

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

  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $207
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $104
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $68
  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or Cleveland?

Prices for flights to both Cleveland 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
    Cleveland $62

Typical Food Prices in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

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

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $53
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $79
  • Tremont Neighborhood Food Tour: $79
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Cleveland $40

Tours and Activities in Panama City

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

  • Big Kahuna Sunset Dolphin Cruise Experience: $55
  • 2 Hour Private Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour Shell Island: $70
  • 2 Hour Shell Island Jet Ski Dolphin Tour: $149
  • 2 Hours Shell Island Jet Ski Tour: $159
  • 3 Hour Tiki Boat Adventure: $55
  • 90 Minute Sunset Tiki Boat Tour: $45
  • Adventure Tour to Shell Island on the Privateer Catamaran: $65
  • Cruisin Tikis Shell Island Big Kahuna Beach and Snorkel Cruise: $70
  • Cypress Springs Eco Adventure: $120
  • Discover Snorkeling Tour in Panama City: $65
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $40
  • Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour: $50

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

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

  • Akron Secrets: Rubber City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.00
  • Cleveland Downtown Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Cleveland by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Skip the Line: Cleveland History Center Admission Ticket: $14
  • Ghost Tour of Cleveland with free Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Cleveland with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cleveland Sights & Stories: $28
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of University Circle Sights & Stories: $28
  • Phantom's Parade on Prospect: Cleveland Ghost Tours: $32
  • Cleveland Browns Football Game Ticket at Huntington Bank Field: $35
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $39
  • Cleveland Comedy City Tour: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Cleveland $45

Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Cleveland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cleveland:

  • Cleveland Brewery Golf Cart Tour Experience: $60


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Panama City and Cleveland, we can see that Panama City is more expensive. And not only is Cleveland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cleveland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cleveland 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 Cleveland.

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 Cleveland Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Panama City or Cleveland?

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

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 Panama City or Cleveland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Cleveland. The summer months attract visitors to Panama City because of the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year.

In July, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 82°F (28°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cleveland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Panama City this time of the year. In the summer, Panama City often gets less sunshine than Cleveland. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cleveland. Panama City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Panama City usually gets more rain in July than Cleveland. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Panama City 82°F (28°C) 
    Cleveland 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Cleveland in the Autumn?

Both Cleveland and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cleveland for the shopping scene and the music scene.

Panama City is much warmer than Cleveland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Cleveland fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during autumn. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Panama City usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Panama City 71°F (22°C) 
    Cleveland 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Cleveland in the Winter?

Both Cleveland and Panama City during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Panama City for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cleveland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cleveland can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Panama City is much warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Panama City in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Cleveland averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets more rain in January than Cleveland. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Panama City 52°F (11°C) 
    Cleveland 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Cleveland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Cleveland. Many visitors come to Panama City in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Panama City is generally much warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 68°F (20°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cleveland this time of the year. In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during spring. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Panama City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cleveland. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Panama City 68°F (20°C) 
    Cleveland 51°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Panama City

Panama City Cleveland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Mar 61°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 40°F (5°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.3 inches (184 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.5 inches (192 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 34°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)