A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Food

Should you visit Panama City or Palm Springs?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Palm Springs, 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. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Panama City travel costs.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a ritzy, chic, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Palm Springs travel costs.

Panama City and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Palm Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Panama City and Palm Springs are popular destinations, Palm Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palm Springs is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Panama City attracts visitors for its music, beaches, and impressive beauty. Panama City is famous for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Palm Springs is famous for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also well known for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

How is Panama City different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

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 Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

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 Palm Springs Better for Music?

Panama City is very good for live music. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Palm Springs offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

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 Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Panama City is notable for its beaches. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Panama City or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Palm Springs?

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

Palm Springs is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

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 Palm Springs More Beautiful?

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

Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Panama City or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Panama City is an amazing beach town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Is Panama City or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Panama City and Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

Is Panama City or Palm Springs Better for Students?

Panama City is notable for students. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

Is Panama City or Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs.

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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Is Panama City or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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 Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Panama City or Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs.

One day in Panama City or Palm Springs?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the chic city of Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the ritzy destination of Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs?

In Panama City, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this fun-filled 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.

The chic city of Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs?

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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Panama City or Palm Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 82°F (28°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Panama City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Panama City usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Panama City or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Palm Springs. The autumn months attract visitors to Panama City because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

Panama City is around the same temperature as Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Panama City usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Panama City is cooler than Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Panama City in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Panama City usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Panama City or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Panama City during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Panama City for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Panama City usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Panama City