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

Should you visit Panama City or Gatlinburg?

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

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

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a high energy, wild, and flashy city. And you can't forget about the museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Panama City and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Gatlinburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Panama City and Gatlinburg are popular destinations, Gatlinburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Gatlinburg is very popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Panama City attracts visitors for its food, music, beaches, and impressive beauty. Panama City is famous for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Gatlinburg is famous for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also well known for the Gatlinburg Strip.

How is Panama City different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for winter skiing. However, Panama City is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Gatlinburg is a great destination to visit. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Panama City is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Gatlinburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Panama City is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Gatlinburg has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

The nightlife in Panama City has something for everybody. 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.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Music?

Panama City is very good for live music. However, Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

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.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

Panama City is great for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Panama City is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Gatlinburg. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Gatlinburg?

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

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

Gatlinburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg More Beautiful?

Panama City is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg 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.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Panama City is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Panama City is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Panama City and Gatlinburg are both excellent 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.

Gatlinburg is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Is Panama City or Gatlinburg Better for Students?

Panama City is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

Panama City is very popular with students. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

Gatlinburg is a nice place 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.

You'll find some public transit in Gatlinburg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

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 Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable city. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

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 Gatlinburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Gatlinburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Panama City or Gatlinburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Panama City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gatlinburg.

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

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

One day in Panama City or Gatlinburg?

With shopping and nightlife around the fun-filled beach town of Panama City, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the flashy city of Gatlinburg. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Gatlinburg?

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Panama City, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the high energy destination of Gatlinburg. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Gatlinburg?

Panama City, a popular beach town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The wild city of Gatlinburg offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Gatlinburg?

Panama City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Gatlinburg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 comparing the travel costs between Panama City and Gatlinburg, we can see that Panama City 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 Gatlinburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Gatlinburg?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Gatlinburg, 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 Gatlinburg?

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 Gatlinburg in the Summer?

Both Gatlinburg and Panama City during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Panama City for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Gatlinburg because of the hiking.

In July, Panama City is generally around the same temperature as Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 82°F (28°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the summer, Panama City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun.

Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually gets more rain in July than Gatlinburg. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Gatlinburg. The autumn months attract visitors to Panama City because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Gatlinburg this time of year.

Panama City is a little warmer than Gatlinburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gatlinburg this time of the year. In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during autumn. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Panama City usually receives more rain than Gatlinburg. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Panama City or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Gatlinburg. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Gatlinburg. In the winter, Panama City is much warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Panama City in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. Panama City usually gets less rain in January than Gatlinburg. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

Both Gatlinburg and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Panama City for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 68°F (20°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during spring. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Panama City usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Panama City