A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Portland, Maine for Beaches, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

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 Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Saint Petersburg travel costs.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. Portland, Maine is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

You'll generally find more things to do in Saint Petersburg than Portland, Maine. Saint Petersburg is bigger than Portland, Maine, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Saint Petersburg is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, and beaches, while Portland, Maine is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Saint Petersburg is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is famous for St. Pete Beach. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Saint Petersburg is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint Petersburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Saint Petersburg is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Saint Petersburg is an experience not to be missed. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. 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 Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

The vibe at night is notable in both Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Petersburg has a few options to choose from. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland, Maine. 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 Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Saint Petersburg is a popular place for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Saint Petersburg has a few great resort options. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Saint Petersburg is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Saint Petersburg. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Portland, Maine is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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 Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is very good for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Portland, Maine offers some nice shopping areas. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.


Is Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine More Beautiful?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Portland, Maine is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Saint Petersburg is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint Petersburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

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 Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

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

Couples visit Saint Petersburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Saint Petersburg is a coastal city 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 Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

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 Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Portland, Maine

Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg than in Portland, Maine. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland, Maine.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Portland, Maine 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 Saint Petersburg.


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Portland, Maine 2-3

One day in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

The underrated destination of Saint Petersburg offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

The coastal city of Saint Petersburg offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic coastal town of Portland, Maine. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Portland, Maine is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint Petersburg. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Portland, Maine or Saint Petersburg?

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

  • Saint Petersburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Portland, Maine Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Petersburg $239
    Portland, Maine $227

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $239, while the average daily cost in Portland, Maine is $227. 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 Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Portland, Maine $115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Portland, Maine $230
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine? 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 Saint Petersburg


Hotels in Portland, Maine


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Portland, Maine Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Portland, Maine $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland, Maine

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portland, Maine:

  • Private Transfer from Portland Port to Portland Jetport (PWM): $136
  • Private Transfer from Portland city to Portland Cruise Port: $75
  • Private Transfer from Portland Cruise Port to Portland city: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

Prices for flights to both Portland, Maine and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $84
    Portland, Maine $84
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Typical Food Prices in Portland, Maine

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Portland, Maine:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $17
  • Dinner for 2
    $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland, Maine

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

  • Portland: Walking Food Tour – Warm Donuts & History: $57

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Portland, Maine $39

Tours and Activities in Portland, Maine

Here are a few actual costs in Portland, Maine for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hour Scenic Powerboat Cruise Experience Portland's Waterfront: $143
  • 2-Hour Portland Old Port Ghost Walking Tour: $29
  • A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland: $49
  • Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine: $62
  • Afternoon Windjammer Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine: $67
  • Around The Peninsula Bike Tour: $85
  • Audio Guided Walking Tour from Old Port of Portland, Maine: $7.75
  • Discover Portland City and Lighthouse Tour: $56
  • Guided RIB Boat Adventure of Casco Bay: $75
  • Harbor Lights and Sights Cruise: $56
  • Historical Walking Tour of Portland’s Old Port District: $7.99
  • Lighthouse Bicycle Tour from South Portland with 4 Lighthouses: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Portland, Maine $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland, Maine

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portland, Maine:

  • Portland Old Port Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $99
  • Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $99


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine, we can see that Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg Expensive? and Is Portland, Maine Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Portland, Maine. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Petersburg is generally a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Petersburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Portland, Maine 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during autumn. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Portland, Maine 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

Both Portland, Maine and Saint Petersburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland, Maine. In the winter, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Petersburg in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the winter, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in January than Portland, Maine. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Portland, Maine 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Portland, Maine. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 73°F (23°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during spring. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Portland, Maine 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Portland, Maine
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)