A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Antonio vs. Norfolk for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit San Antonio or Norfolk?

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 San Antonio and Norfolk. 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.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a colorful, festive, and fun city. San Antonio is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See San Antonio travel costs.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Norfolk travel costs.

San Antonio and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Antonio or Norfolk?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Antonio than Norfolk, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Antonio is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. It is also home to The Alamo. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is San Antonio different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Antonio or Norfolk?

San Antonio is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

San Antonio offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Is the Food Better in San Antonio or Norfolk? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Antonio is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Antonio makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether San Antonio or Norfolk has a better nightlife scene.

San Antonio has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk Better for Music?

San Antonio is a popular place for live music. However, Norfolk is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Antonio is active and vibrant. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Norfolk is not a live music destination.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to San Antonio to see the historical old town. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Norfolk?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Norfolk and San Antonio.

San Antonio is a great destination for shopping. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk More Beautiful?

San Antonio is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Antonio is a gorgeous place to visit. The RiverWalk feels almost like a European city and its filled with colors and festiveness.

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk Better for Families?

San Antonio is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Antonio is a very family-friendly destination. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk Better for Couples?

San Antonio is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

San Antonio is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk Better for Students?

San Antonio is a popular place for students. However, Norfolk is not popular with students.

San Antonio is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Norfolk is not popular with students.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both San Antonio and Norfolk.

Public transit is generally limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is San Antonio or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Norfolk is a good destination for its walkability. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Norfolk is somewhat walkable. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable city. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is San Antonio Worth Visiting? and Is Norfolk Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or San Antonio?

How long in San Antonio or Norfolk?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio than Norfolk 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 San Antonio.

One day in San Antonio or Norfolk?

In San Antonio, you'll find shopping and museums. This city 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 authentic city of Norfolk. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in San Antonio or Norfolk?

In San Antonio, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Antonio has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the blue collar destination of Norfolk. 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 San Antonio or Norfolk?

San Antonio is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The authentic city of Norfolk offers shopping and museums. 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 San Antonio or Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Antonio. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting San Antonio. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Norfolk. 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 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Antonio and Norfolk, we can see that Norfolk is more expensive. And not only is San Antonio much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Antonio would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Antonio 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 Norfolk would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Norfolk than you might in San Antonio.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Antonio Expensive? and Is Norfolk Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Antonio or Norfolk?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of San Antonio and Norfolk, 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 San Antonio or Norfolk?

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 San Antonio or Norfolk in the Summer?

Both Norfolk and San Antonio are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Antonio this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences.

San Antonio is a little warmer than Norfolk in the summer. The daily temperature in San Antonio averages around 87°F (31°C) in July, and Norfolk fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Antonio. San Antonio usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during summer. San Antonio gets 307 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. In July, San Antonio usually receives less rain than Norfolk. San Antonio gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Antonio or Norfolk in the Autumn?

Both Norfolk and San Antonio during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to San Antonio for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Norfolk in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, San Antonio is a little warmer than Norfolk. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Antonio in October average around 73°F (23°C), and Norfolk averages at about 62°F (16°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Antonio. In the autumn, San Antonio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. San Antonio gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun.

San Antonio usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Norfolk. San Antonio gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Antonio or Norfolk in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both San Antonio and Norfolk. Many visitors come to San Antonio in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Norfolk can be very cold during winter. In January, San Antonio is generally much warmer than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 54°F (12°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

San Antonio usually receives less sunshine than Norfolk during winter. San Antonio gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, San Antonio usually receives less rain than Norfolk. San Antonio gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Antonio or Norfolk in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to San Antonio as well as Norfolk. Most visitors come to San Antonio for the natural beauty during these months.

San Antonio is much warmer than Norfolk in the spring. The daily temperature in San Antonio averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Norfolk fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Antonio this time of the year. In the spring, San Antonio often gets less sunshine than Norfolk. San Antonio gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

San Antonio usually gets less rain in April than Norfolk. San Antonio gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Norfolk and San Antonio