A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Portland, Maine for Families, Nightlife, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Panama City or Portland, Maine?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Portland, Maine, 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. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Panama City travel costs.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a picturesque, seaside, and laid-back coastal town. The beauty of Portland, Maine is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Panama City and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Portland, Maine?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Portland, Maine are both popular with visitors, Panama City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Panama City is more popular for its nightlife, music, and resorts, while Portland, Maine is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Panama City is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also home to Pier Park. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Panama City different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Panama City or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Panama City and Portland, Maine can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Portland, Maine is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Panama City is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Panama City is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine Better for Music?

Panama City is a popular place for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine Better for Resorts?

Panama City is a popular place for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Both Panama City and Portland, Maine have very good 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 Portland, Maine attract visitors from all over. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine has hiking trails worth exploring. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Portland, Maine?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland, Maine and Panama City.

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

Portland, Maine has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Portland, Maine is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

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

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Panama City is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine Better for Students?

Panama City is well known for students. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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

Panama City is a beach town with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Panama City or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Portland, Maine is a coastal town 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.

Portland, Maine is generally not very walkable. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need 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 Portland, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Panama City and Portland, Maine. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Panama City than in Portland, Maine. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland, Maine.

Families should spend more time in Panama City than Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine.

One day in Panama City or Portland, Maine?

The active destination of Panama City offers nightlife and live music. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 picturesque coastal town of Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine?

The beach town of Panama City offers live music and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. 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 seaside destination of Portland, Maine. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal 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 Portland, Maine?

Panama City is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This beach town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

The laid-back coastal town of Portland, Maine offers shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Portland, Maine?

The fun-filled beach town of Panama City offers shopping and nightlife. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Portland, Maine. 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.

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

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 Portland, Maine Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Portland, Maine, 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 Portland, Maine?

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 Portland, Maine in the Summer?

Both Portland, Maine and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Panama City is a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during summer. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Panama City. In July, Panama City usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Panama City or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Panama City during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Panama City for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Panama City is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the autumn, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland, Maine. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Portland, Maine. The winter months attract visitors to Panama City because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland, Maine in the winter. Panama City is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during winter. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Panama City usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Panama City or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Portland, Maine. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Panama City is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 43°F (6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Panama City this time of the year. In the spring, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets less rain in April than Portland, Maine. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Panama City