A Travel Price Comparison for North Carolina Asheville vs. Charlotte for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Asheville or Charlotte?

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 Charlotte. 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 open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. Asheville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Asheville travel costs.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a growing, evolving, and up-and-coming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Charlotte travel costs.

Asheville and Charlotte: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Charlotte?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Asheville than Charlotte. While Charlotte is larger than Asheville, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Charlotte is known for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Asheville is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, and local North Carolina barbecue. It is also home to The Biltmore Estate. Charlotte is popular for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Asheville different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charlotte offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Asheville is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Asheville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is great for its evening party scene. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Asheville for the nightlife scene. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Music?

Asheville is great for its music scene. However, Charlotte is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Asheville draws a good crowd. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Charlotte is not a live music destination.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Resorts?

Asheville is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Asheville has a few great resort options. 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.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is adequate for its historic old town charm. However, Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

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.

Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Hiking?

Asheville is great for hiking. However, Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. 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.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Charlotte?

Asheville is great for its shopping areas. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Asheville. 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.

Charlotte is a great destination for shopping. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Christmas?

Asheville is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Charlotte does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is a very popular destination during Christmas. 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.

Charlotte does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is adequate for visiting Christmas markets. However, Charlotte does not offer Christmas markets.

During the holidays, visitors often browse through the Christmas markets in Asheville. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Charlotte does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Charlotte More Beautiful?

Asheville is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

Asheville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With the surrounding mountains and the charming town, the area is filled with natural beauty.

Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Families?

Asheville is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Couples?

Asheville is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Asheville is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.

Is Asheville or Charlotte Better for Students?

Asheville is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Asheville is very popular with students. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Charlotte is a good mountain town to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

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

Charlotte is a good destination for its public transit. However, Asheville is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Charlotte, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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 Charlotte a more walkable city?

Asheville and Charlotte both are good when exploring on foot.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Charlotte is a somewhat walkable mountain town. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Charlotte?

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

Families should spend more time in Asheville than Charlotte. 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 Charlotte. 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 Charlotte 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 Charlotte?

You'll find food and shopping around the mountain town of Asheville. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Charlotte. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charlotte has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Asheville or Charlotte?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the eclectic destination of Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this mountain town has to offer. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the growing destination of Charlotte. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Charlotte?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the outdoorsy mountain town of Asheville. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the evolving city of Charlotte. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Asheville or Charlotte?

Asheville is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Charlotte is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Charlotte, we can see that Charlotte 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 Charlotte would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Charlotte 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 Charlotte Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Charlotte?

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

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 Asheville or Charlotte in the Summer?

Both Charlotte and Asheville during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Asheville for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Charlotte in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Asheville is around the same temperature as Charlotte. Typically, the summer temperatures in Asheville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Charlotte averages at about 81°F (27°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Asheville. In the summer, Asheville often gets less sunshine than Charlotte. Asheville gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun.

Charlotte gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than Charlotte. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Charlotte in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Charlotte. Many visitors come to Asheville in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Asheville is generally around the same temperature as Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte 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 Charlotte during autumn. Asheville gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Asheville usually receives more rain than Charlotte. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Asheville or Charlotte in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Charlotte. Most visitors come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Asheville is a little warmer than Charlotte in the winter. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 44°F (7°C) in January, and Charlotte fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

In the winter, Asheville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte. Asheville gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun.

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the winter. Asheville usually gets more rain in January than Charlotte. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Charlotte in the Spring?

Both Charlotte and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Asheville because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year.

In the spring, Asheville is around the same temperature as Charlotte. Typically, the spring temperatures in Asheville in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Charlotte averages at about 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte during spring. Asheville gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than Charlotte. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charlotte and Asheville