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

Should you visit Panama City or Newport?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Newport, 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. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Panama City travel costs.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Newport is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Newport travel costs.

Panama City and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Panama City or Newport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newport. Although Panama City and Newport are both popular with visitors, Newport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newport is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Panama City is known for its nightlife, music, and resorts. Panama City is more touristy than Newport and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Newport is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also home to Thames Street.

How is Panama City different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Panama City
Newport

Newport 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 Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Panama City
Newport

Newport 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 Newport. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Newport Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Newport

Panama City is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Panama City or Newport Better for Music?

Panama City
Newport

Panama City is very good for its music scene. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Newport Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Newport

Panama City is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Newport Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Newport

Both Panama City and Newport have excellent beaches worth visiting.

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.

The beaches at Newport attract visitors from all over. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Panama City or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Panama City
Newport

Newport is a great destination for its old town. However, Panama City does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Panama City does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Newport?

Panama City
Newport

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

Newport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport More Beautiful?

Panama City
Newport

Panama City and Newport 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.

Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Is Panama City or Newport Better for Families?

Panama City
Newport

Panama City is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.


Is Panama City or Newport Better for Couples?

Panama City
Newport

Newport is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Newport has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Panama City is a great beach town if you're traveling as 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.

Is Panama City or Newport Better for Students?

Panama City
Newport

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

Newport is not popular with students.

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

Panama City
Newport

Newport 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 Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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 Newport a more walkable city?

Panama City
Newport

Newport 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.

Newport is a very walkable town. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Newport?

In either Panama City or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Panama City than Newport because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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


  • How many days in Panama City or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Panama City 3-7 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Panama City or Newport?

In Panama City, you'll find nightlife and live music. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical town of Newport. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Newport?

In Panama City, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Newport. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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 Newport?

Panama City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Panama City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the seaside town of Newport. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Panama City. In Panama City, you'll find shopping and nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. 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, Newport 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
    Newport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Panama City $272
    Newport $192

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $272, while the average daily cost in Newport is $192. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Newport $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Panama City $19
    Newport $17

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: $130
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach: $40
  • Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour: $50
  • Original CRUISIN TIKIS 3 Hour Cruise, Snorkel, Swim/float Sandbar: $80

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Newport's Opulent Gilded Age Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Self guided Tour of the Old Colony House: $10
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Scenic Newport, RI Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Ultimate Newport Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: Walk & Drive: $18
  • Road to Independence Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour: $20
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Walking Ghost Tour Through Newport RI: $23

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Newport $14


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

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 Newport Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Panama City or Newport?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 46% larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Newport. Most visitors come to Panama City for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Panama City is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Newport averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Panama City this time of the year. In the summer, Panama City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Panama City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Panama City usually gets more rain in July than Newport. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Panama City 82°F (28°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Panama City because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

In October, Panama City is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Newport during autumn. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Panama City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Panama City 71°F (22°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Panama City or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Panama City during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Newport. Panama City is much warmer than Newport in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Newport. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets more rain in January than Newport. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Panama City or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Newport. Many travelers come to Panama City for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newport in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Panama City is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Newport averages at about 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Newport during spring. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Panama City usually receives less rain than Newport. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Panama City 68°F (20°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Panama City

Panama City Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 61°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.3 inches (184 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.5 inches (192 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)