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

Should you visit Asheville or Boston?

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 Boston. 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. Asheville is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for live music, food, and hiking. See Asheville travel costs.

Boston

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Boston is a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Boston travel costs.

Asheville and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston than Asheville. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Boston is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Asheville attracts visitors for its music, resorts, hiking, and shopping. Boston is more touristy than Asheville and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, and local North Carolina barbecue.

How is Asheville different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston 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 Boston?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for its theatre productions. However, Asheville is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Asheville is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Asheville and Boston can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Asheville. 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.

Boston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Asheville and Boston.

Asheville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Music?

Asheville is notable for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

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.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a good destination for its resorts. However, Boston 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.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for the beach. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Asheville is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

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 Boston Better for Hiking?

Asheville is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston 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.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Boston?

Asheville is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Asheville or Boston More Beautiful?

Asheville and Boston are somewhat similar when it comes to the nice scenery.

Asheville is a beautiful place to visit, too. With the surrounding mountains and the charming town, the area is filled with natural beauty.

Boston offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Asheville. 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.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Couples?

Asheville is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Asheville is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Asheville or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Asheville is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Asheville is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around by using their own vehicle. In particular, if you plan to hike or explore the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll need a car. Many of the downtown hotels offer shuttle buses to the Biltmore area.

Is Asheville or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 reach restaurants and shops on foot. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Boston?

In either Asheville or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Asheville because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

Couples should spend more time in Asheville than Boston. 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 Boston 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.

One day in Asheville or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Asheville or Boston?

Asheville 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.

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Asheville. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Asheville or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the eclectic destination of Asheville. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Boston 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 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 Asheville and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Asheville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Asheville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Asheville 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Asheville.

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

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Boston, 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 Boston?

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 Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Boston. The summer months attract visitors to Asheville because of the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In July, Asheville is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 82°F (28°C), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Asheville usually receives less sunshine than Boston during summer. Asheville gets 268 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Asheville usually receives more rain than Boston. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Asheville or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Boston. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Asheville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Asheville is a little warmer than Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In the autumn, Asheville often gets more sunshine than Boston. Asheville gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Asheville usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Boston. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Boston can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Asheville is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Asheville in January average around 44°F (7°C), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Boston during winter. Asheville gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. In January, Asheville usually receives more rain than Boston. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Asheville or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Asheville during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Asheville in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Asheville is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Asheville. In the spring, Asheville often gets more sunshine than Boston. Asheville gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in April than Boston. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Asheville