A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pensacola vs. Bangor for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Pensacola or Bangor?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Bangor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a entertaining, fun-filled, and active beach town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Pensacola travel costs.

Bangor

Bangor is a welcoming, friendly, and laid back town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Bangor travel costs.

Pensacola and Bangor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pensacola or Bangor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pensacola. Although Pensacola and Bangor are both popular with visitors, Pensacola has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pensacola is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and hiking, while Bangor is known for its small town charm. Pensacola is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. It is also home to Gulf Islands National Seashore. Bangor is popular for its history as a lumber town.

How is Pensacola different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pensacola or Bangor?

Pensacola
Bangor

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Pensacola and Bangor.

Pensacola offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bangor. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.


Is the Food Better in Pensacola or Bangor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pensacola
Bangor

Pensacola is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Pensacola is an experience not to be missed. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Pensacola or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola
Bangor

Pensacola is a beach town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Pensacola or Bangor Better for Resorts?

Pensacola
Bangor

Pensacola is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

In Pensacola, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Pensacola or Bangor Better for Beaches?

Pensacola
Bangor

Pensacola is an amazing beach town to visit for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

Pensacola is considered to be a world-class beach destination. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is Pensacola or Bangor Better for Hiking?

Pensacola
Bangor

Pensacola is a moderate beach town for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Bangor?

Pensacola
Bangor

Both Pensacola and Bangor are good shopping destinations.

Pensacola offers some nice shopping areas. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

Bangor has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.


Is Pensacola or Bangor Better for Families?

Pensacola
Bangor

Pensacola is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Pensacola is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Bangor is a family-friendly beach town. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Pensacola or Bangor Better for Couples?

Pensacola
Bangor

Pensacola is a well-known place for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Pensacola or Bangor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pensacola
Bangor

Bangor is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.


Is Pensacola or Bangor a more walkable city?

Pensacola
Bangor

Bangor is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its ease of walking around.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable beach town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

For even more information, also check out Is Pensacola Worth Visiting? and Is Bangor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pensacola or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Pensacola than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pensacola, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

Families should spend more time in Pensacola than Bangor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Pensacola, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pensacola than Bangor 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 Pensacola.


  • How many days in Pensacola or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pensacola 3-7 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Pensacola or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pensacola. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Bangor. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangor has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Pensacola or Bangor?

Pensacola is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the welcoming destination of Bangor. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Pensacola or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pensacola. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid back town of Bangor. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Pensacola or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Pensacola. 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.

Bangor is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bangor or Pensacola?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Pensacola Prices
    USA Prices
    Bangor Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pensacola $234
    Bangor $237

The average daily cost (per person) in Pensacola is $234, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $237. 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 Pensacola and Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pensacola $115
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pensacola $230
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Pensacola and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Pensacola or Bangor? 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 Pensacola


Hotels in Bangor


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: Pensacola Hotel Prices and Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pensacola $64
    Bangor $36
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Pensacola

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Pensacola:


  • Boca Grande Causeway Toll
    $5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Pensacola or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor and Pensacola 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
    Pensacola $84
    Bangor $93
Typical Food Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Two Ice Creams
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pensacola

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Pensacola.

  • Palafox Palete Food Tour: $50
  • Seville Haunted Luncheon or Dinner and Ghost Tour: $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pensacola $13
    Bangor $45
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Bike Rental
    $16

Tours and Activities in Pensacola

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pensacola are as follows:

  • Pensacola's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided App Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Wacky Walks: $10
  • The Great Pensacola Birthday Party Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Pensacola Ghost Tours: Perdition, Pirates, & Purgatory: $24
  • Spooky Stories Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Penscola Most Haunted: Ghost Tour and Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Pensacola Haunted Walking Tour with Ghost Equipment: $30
  • Pensacola Amazing Race Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Pensacola Most Haunted Ghost Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • North Hill Historic Homes Tour of Pensacola: $32
  • Pensacola Ghost Tours: Perdition, Pirates, & Purgatory: $32

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pensacola $44
    Bangor $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Pensacola

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

  • Walking Ghost Tour Pub Crawl - Boos with Booze : $20
  • Walking Pub Tour : $21
  • Party Bike Pub Crawl of Downtown Pensacola : $45


When comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Bangor, we can see that Bangor 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 Pensacola Expensive? and Is Bangor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Bangor?

Pensacola has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Pensacola and Bangor, 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 Pensacola or Bangor?

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 Pensacola or Bangor in the Summer?

Both Bangor and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pensacola for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bangor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pensacola is a little warmer than Bangor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pensacola in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Bangor averages at about 69°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Pensacola. In July, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Bangor. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pensacola 82°F (28°C) 
    Bangor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Bangor in the Autumn?

Both Bangor and Pensacola during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pensacola in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bangor for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Pensacola is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 69°F (21°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets more rain in October than Bangor. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Pensacola is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pensacola 69°F (21°C) 
    Bangor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Bangor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pensacola and Bangor. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bangor because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bangor can be very cold. Pensacola is much warmer than Bangor in the winter. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 51°F (10°C) in January, and Bangor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Bangor. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pensacola 51°F (10°C) 
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Bangor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Bangor. The spring months attract visitors to Pensacola because of the beaches. Additionally, the small town charm are the main draw to Bangor this time of year.

In the spring, Pensacola is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pensacola in April average around 67°F (20°C), and Bangor averages at about 43°F (6°C).

Pensacola usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bangor. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Pensacola is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pensacola 67°F (20°C) 
    Bangor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bangor and Pensacola

Pensacola Bangor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)