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

Should you visit Panama City or Columbus?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Columbus, 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 food, beaches, and shopping. See Panama City travel costs.

Columbus

Columbus is a welcoming, down-to-earth, and authentic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Columbus travel costs.

Panama City and Columbus: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Columbus?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Columbus are popular destinations, Panama City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Panama City is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Columbus attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Panama City is more touristy than Columbus and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also well known for Pier Park. Columbus is famous for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Panama City different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Columbus is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Columbus offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History Center.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Panama City is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Columbus 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 Columbus. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

Is Panama City or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

Panama City is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Columbus 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.

Columbus has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

Is Panama City or Columbus Better for Music?

Panama City is a popular place for live music. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Columbus Better for Resorts?

Panama City is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Columbus Better for Beaches?

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

Columbus is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Columbus?

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

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

Columbus has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

Is Panama City or Columbus More Beautiful?

Panama City is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Panama City or Columbus Better for Families?

Panama City is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

Columbus is a very kid-friendly beach town. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

Is Panama City or Columbus Better for Couples?

Panama City is a very popular place for romance. However, Columbus 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 Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

Is Panama City or Columbus Better for Students?

Panama City is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Columbus 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.

Columbus is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Is Panama City or Columbus a more walkable city?

Columbus is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Columbus is a somewhat walkable place. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

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 Columbus Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbus or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Panama City or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Panama City than Columbus because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbus.

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

One day in Panama City or Columbus?

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 shopping when visiting the down-to-earth city of Columbus. 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 Columbus?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Columbus. 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 Columbus?

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 down-to-earth city of Columbus offers museums and nightlife. 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 Columbus?

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 nightlife and shopping when visiting Columbus. 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 Columbus, we can see that Panama City is more expensive. And not only is Columbus much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Columbus would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Columbus 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 Columbus.

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 Columbus Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Columbus, 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 Columbus?

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 Columbus in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Columbus. Many visitors come to Panama City in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Columbus for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 82°F (28°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbus. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Panama City this time of the year. In the summer, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbus. Panama City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Panama City usually gets more rain in July than Columbus. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Columbus in the Autumn?

Both Columbus and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Panama City for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Columbus because of the shopping scene.

Panama City is much warmer than Columbus in the autumn. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Columbus fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during autumn. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 179 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Panama City usually receives more rain than Columbus. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Panama City or Columbus in the Winter?

Both Columbus and Panama City during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Panama City because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbus this time of year.

It's quite cold in Columbus in the winter. In the winter, Panama City is much warmer than Columbus. Typically, the winter temperatures in Panama City in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Columbus averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Columbus. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbus receives 105 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets more rain in January than Columbus. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Columbus in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Columbus. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Panama City this time of year.

In April, Panama City is generally much warmer than Columbus. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 68°F (20°C), and Columbus fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Columbus during spring. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Columbus receives 200 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Panama City usually receives less rain than Columbus. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Columbus receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbus and Panama City