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

Should you visit Panama City or Raleigh?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Raleigh, 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a southern, student-friendly, and suburban-style city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife. See Raleigh travel costs.

Panama City and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Raleigh?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Panama City. Although Panama City and Raleigh are both popular with visitors, Panama City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Panama City is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Raleigh is known for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Panama City is more touristy than Raleigh and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. It is also home to Pier Park. Raleigh is popular for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Panama City different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Raleigh offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Panama City and Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is becoming an appealing option for foodies. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Panama City or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

Panama City is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Raleigh 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 Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is Panama City or Raleigh Better for Music?

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

Raleigh is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Raleigh Better for Resorts?

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

Raleigh is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Raleigh Better for Beaches?

Panama City is well known for the beach. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Raleigh?

Panama City is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Panama City to go shopping. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Panama City or Raleigh More Beautiful?

Panama City is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Raleigh is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Raleigh is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Panama City or Raleigh Better for Families?

Panama City is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Panama City or Raleigh Better for Couples?

Panama City is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known 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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Panama City or Raleigh Better for Students?

Panama City and Raleigh are very good places to visit for students.

Panama City is a great beach town to visit as a student. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Students come from all over to stay in Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Is Panama City or Raleigh 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, Raleigh 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 Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Panama City or Raleigh a more walkable city?

Raleigh is a city 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.

Raleigh is generally not very walkable. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else 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 Raleigh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Raleigh?

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

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

One day in Panama City or Raleigh?

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 student-friendly city of Raleigh. 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 Raleigh?

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 museums when visiting the suburban-style destination of Raleigh. 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 Raleigh?

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.

The suburban-style city of Raleigh 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 Raleigh?

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

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 Raleigh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Raleigh?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Raleigh, 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 Raleigh?

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 Raleigh in the Summer?

Both Raleigh 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 Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Panama City is around the same temperature as Raleigh. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Raleigh averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Raleigh. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during summer. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 259 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. It's quite rainy in Panama City. In July, Panama City usually receives more rain than Raleigh. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Panama City or Raleigh in the Autumn?

Both Raleigh 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 Raleigh because of the city's sights and attractions.

In October, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Raleigh. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the autumn, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 211 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets more rain in October than Raleigh. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Raleigh in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Raleigh in the winter. Panama City is much warmer than Raleigh in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Raleigh fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Panama City usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during winter. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Panama City usually receives more rain than Raleigh. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Panama City or Raleigh in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Panama City is a little warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Raleigh averages at about 60°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. 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 Raleigh. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 251 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets less rain in April than Raleigh. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Raleigh and Panama City