A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Beaufort for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Asheville or Beaufort?

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 Asheville and Beaufort. 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.

Asheville

Asheville is a eclectic, outdoorsy, and progressive mountain town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Asheville and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Asheville or Beaufort?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Asheville. Although Asheville and Beaufort are popular destinations, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, and christmas markets, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. It is also well known for The Biltmore Estate. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Asheville different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Asheville or Beaufort?

Asheville
Beaufort

Beaufort is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Asheville or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Asheville
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaufort. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Asheville is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Asheville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Music?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is notable for live music. However, Beaufort is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Asheville. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Beaufort is not a live music destination.


Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Asheville has a handful of resorts to choose from. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Asheville
Beaufort

Beaufort is a good destination for the beache. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Beaufort offers a nice beach destination. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Asheville
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for its old town. However, Asheville is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

The old town area in Asheville is worth visiting. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.


Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Hiking?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Asheville is a popular spot for hiking. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Beaufort?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Asheville is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Christmas?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Beaufort does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Beaufort does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is a moderate mountain town for its Christmas markets. However, Beaufort does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville is a good spot to see some Christmas markets. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Beaufort does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Families?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Asheville is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville and Beaufort both great destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Asheville frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Beaufort is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.


Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is notable for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Students?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is notable for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Asheville is a great mountain town to visit as a student. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

Is Asheville or Beaufort Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Asheville
Beaufort

Asheville is a moderate mountain town for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Asheville or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Asheville
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Beaufort is a very walkable town. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable mountain town. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Asheville Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Asheville and Beaufort. In our opinion, Asheville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Asheville than Beaufort. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Beaufort 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 Asheville.


  • How many days in Asheville or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Asheville 2-3 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Asheville or Beaufort?

The mountain town of Asheville offers live music and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Asheville or Beaufort?

Asheville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Asheville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Asheville or Beaufort?

Asheville is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Asheville or Beaufort?

Asheville is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This mountain town offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Asheville?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Asheville is $133, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $131. 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 Asheville and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Asheville $89
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Asheville $178
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Asheville and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Asheville or Beaufort? 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 Asheville


Hotels in Beaufort


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: Asheville Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Asheville $14
    Beaufort -

Is it cheaper to fly into Asheville or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Asheville 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
    Asheville $33
    Beaufort $31
Typical Food Prices in Asheville

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Asheville:


  • Biltmore Estate Entrance Fee
    $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Asheville

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

  • 1-HR cooking class: $40
  • Electric Bike Tour of Asheville's Best Pizza: $98
  • Best Pizza E-bike Tour: $111

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Asheville $16
    Beaufort -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Asheville

Here are a few typical costs in Asheville for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Massage
    $40

Tours and Activities in Asheville

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

  • Downtown Asheville Tip-Based Sightseeing Walking Tour : $5.00
  • River Arts District Tip-Based Sightseeing Walking Tour : $5.00
  • Asheville's Famous Ghosts Smart Phone GPS APP Solo Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Asheville's Historic Smart Phone Guided App (GPS) Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Blue Ridge Parkway South Audio Driving Tour: $7.99
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Audio Driving Tour: $7.99
  • Asheville Historic Highlights: Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Self-Drive Tour w/ Audio Guide: $9.99
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Driving Audio Tour (Asheville ↔ Roanoke): $12
  • Asheville Scavenger Hunt: Downtown Asheville Adventure: $12
  • Blue Ridge Parkway (Asheville to Roanoke) Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Asheville Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Asheville $16
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Asheville

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

  • Skip the Line: Copper Barrel's Premium Distillery Tour & Tasting: $10
  • Terrors, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ultimate Late Night Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $39
  • Expert-Led Brewery Walking Tour with Beer Samples: $65
  • Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour: $69
  • Premier Walking Guided Brewery Tour Through Downtown Asheville: $69
  • Electric Bike Brewery Crawl of Asheville: $74
  • Premier Mobile Guided Brewery Tour Around Asheville: $99
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $99
  • Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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


Which is Bigger, Asheville or Beaufort?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Beaufort, 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 Asheville or Beaufort?

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 Asheville or Beaufort in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Beaufort. Many visitors come to Asheville in the summer for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Asheville is generally around the same temperature as Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 82°F (28°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Asheville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during summer. Asheville gets 268 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Asheville usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Asheville 82°F (28°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Asheville or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Beaufort. Most visitors come to Asheville for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Asheville is cooler than Beaufort in the autumn. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In the autumn, Asheville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Asheville gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Asheville usually gets more rain in October than Beaufort. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Asheville 64°F (18°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Asheville or Beaufort in the Winter?

Both Beaufort and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Asheville because of the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In the winter, Asheville is cooler than Beaufort. Typically, the winter temperatures in Asheville in January average around 44°F (7°C), and Beaufort averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Asheville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during winter. Asheville gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. In January, Asheville usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Asheville 44°F (7°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Asheville or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Asheville during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Asheville this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Asheville is generally around the same temperature as Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Asheville. In the spring, Asheville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Asheville gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in April than Beaufort. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Asheville 64°F (18°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Asheville

Asheville Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 47°F (8°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 71°F (22°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (118 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 55°F (13°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 47°F (8°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)