A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Providence vs. Sonoma for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Attractions

Should you visit Providence or Sonoma?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Providence and Sonoma. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Providence

Providence is a active, friendly, and fascinating city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Providence travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking. See Sonoma travel costs.

Providence and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Providence or Sonoma?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sonoma. Although Providence and Sonoma are popular destinations, Sonoma has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sonoma is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Providence attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Sonoma is more touristy than Providence and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also well known for Buena Vista Winery. Providence is famous for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Providence different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Providence or Sonoma?

Providence
Sonoma

Providence is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Providence. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


Is the Food Better in Providence or Sonoma? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Providence
Sonoma

Sonoma is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Sonoma, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Providence makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

Is Providence or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Providence
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for its evening party scene. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Sonoma has something for everybody. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

Is Providence or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Providence
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for its luxury resorts. However, Providence is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Sonoma to choose from. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Providence is not a resort destination.


Is Providence or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Providence
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for the beach. However, Providence is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Sonoma for it's beautiful beaches. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Providence is not a beach destination.

Is Providence or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Providence
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for hiking. However, Providence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sonoma for the hiking trails. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Providence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Providence or Sonoma?

Providence
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for its shopping areas. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Providence is a great destination for shopping. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.


Is Providence or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Providence
Sonoma

Sonoma is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Providence is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Providence is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Providence or Sonoma Better for Families?

Providence
Sonoma

Both Providence and Sonoma are nice family-friendly destinations.

Providence offers lots of family activities. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is Providence or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Providence
Sonoma

Sonoma is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Sonoma is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.


Is Providence or Sonoma Better for Students?

Providence
Sonoma

Providence is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Sonoma is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Providence. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Sonoma is not popular with students.

Is Providence or Sonoma Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Providence
Sonoma

Providence is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known for its public transit.

While Providence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Providence or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Providence
Sonoma

Providence is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

Providence is a very walkable destination. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Sonoma is not a walkable city. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.


For even more information, also check out Is Providence Worth Visiting? and Is Sonoma Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Providence?

How long in Providence or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Providence or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Providence, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sonoma than Providence 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 Sonoma.


  • How many days in Providence or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Providence 2-3 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Providence or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Providence. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With shopping and nightlife around the serene county of Sonoma, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Providence or Sonoma?

Providence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Sonoma, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this county.

Five days in Providence or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Providence. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sonoma, a popular county, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Providence or Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active destination of Providence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sonoma is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sonoma or Providence?

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

  • Providence Prices
    USA Prices
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Providence $245
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Providence is $245, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Providence and Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Providence $114
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Providence $228
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Providence and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Providence or Sonoma? 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 Providence


Hotels in Sonoma


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: Providence Hotel Prices and Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Providence $46
    Sonoma $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

Also for Providence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $133
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $125
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • Providence to Boston Airport (BOS) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $40
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • Private Airport Transfer TO/FROM Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Providence or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma and Providence 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
    Providence $82
    Sonoma $96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $99
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll A Guided Italian Culinary Experience: $150
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll with Italian Dinner: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Providence $26
    Sonoma $16

Tours and Activities in Providence

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

  • Providence Downtown and Brown Self Guided App GPS Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal: $46
  • Creative Capital: Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $40
  • Dark Tales: Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $35
  • Dark Tales: The Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $30
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $45
  • Haunted Boat Tours: $54
  • Haunted Boat Tours in Providence: $55
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Historic Providence Boat Tours: $45
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Providence RI: $15
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Providence $13
    Sonoma $41


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


Which is Bigger, Providence or Sonoma?

Providence has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Providence and Sonoma, 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 Providence or Sonoma?

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 Providence or Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma and Providence are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Providence for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Providence is around the same temperature as Sonoma in the summer. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In July, Providence usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Providence gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Providence 73°F (23°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Providence or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Providence during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Providence because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

In the autumn, Providence is cooler than Sonoma. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Providence in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Sonoma averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Providence usually gets more rain in October than Sonoma. Providence gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Providence 53°F (12°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Providence or Sonoma in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Providence and Sonoma. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Providence this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sonoma for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Providence in the winter. In January, Providence is generally much colder than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Providence average around 28°F (-2°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In January, Providence usually receives less rain than Sonoma. Providence gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Providence 28°F (-2°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Providence or Sonoma in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Providence as well as Sonoma. Also, many visitors come to Sonoma in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Providence is cooler than Sonoma in the spring. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Providence usually gets more rain in April than Sonoma. Providence gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Providence 48°F (9°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Providence

Providence Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)