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

Should you visit Panama City or Sedona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Sedona, 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 active, cosmopolitan, and fun-filled beach town. Panama City is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Panama City travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a scenic, striking, and desert town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Sedona is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sedona travel costs.

Panama City and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less charming
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Panama City or Sedona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sedona than Panama City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sedona is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Panama City is more popular for its nightlife, music, and beaches. Panama City is more touristy than Sedona and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Sedona is well known for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. Also, Sedona is famous for Red Rock Crossing Park.

How is Panama City different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Panama City
Sedona

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

Sedona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Panama City
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international 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 Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Panama City
Sedona

Panama City is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Panama City for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Panama City or Sedona Better for Music?

Panama City
Sedona

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

Sedona is not a live music destination.


Is Panama City or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Panama City
Sedona

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

Sedona is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

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 Sedona Better for Beaches?

Panama City
Sedona

Panama City is great for the beach. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not a beach destination.

Is Panama City or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Panama City
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Panama City does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Sedona to see the old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Panama City does not have a historic old town.


Is Panama City or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Panama City
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Sedona?

Panama City
Sedona

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Sedona make it a world-class shopping destination. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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 Sedona More Beautiful?

Panama City
Sedona

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Sedona is one of the main draws. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

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 Sedona Better for Families?

Panama City
Sedona

Panama City is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-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.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Panama City or Sedona Better for Couples?

Panama City
Sedona

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

Sedona has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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 Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Panama City
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Panama City or Sedona Better for Students?

Panama City
Sedona

Panama City is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not popular with students.

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

Panama City
Sedona

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and Sedona.

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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Panama City or Sedona a more walkable city?

Panama City
Sedona

Sedona 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.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have 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 Sedona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Sedona?

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

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

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


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

One day in Panama City or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Panama City. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sedona is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the shopping. 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 Sedona?

Panama City is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Panama City or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Panama City. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Sedona is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cosmopolitan destination of Panama City. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Since Sedona is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the shopping. 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, Sedona 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
    Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Panama City $272
    Sedona $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Panama City is $272, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $200. 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 Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Panama City $128
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Panama City $256
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Panama City and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Panama City or Sedona? 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 Sedona


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 Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Panama City $48
    Sedona $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Panama City or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona 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
    Sedona $83

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

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

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $135
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

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

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sedona.

  • Sedona & Red Rock State Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Sedona, Arizona Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Grand Canyon and Sedona Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $22
  • Jerome Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sedona Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $26
  • From Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $28
  • Out of Africa Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $43
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Hi-Points Van Tour: $50
  • Sedona Aura Cleansing Tour: $55
  • Sightseeing Highlights Tour of Sedona: $63
  • The Magic of Sedona Highlights Tour: $63

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Panama City $56
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $275


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

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 Sedona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Panama City or Sedona?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and Sedona, 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.