A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. El Paso for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Asheville or El Paso?

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 El Paso. 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 outdoorsy, progressive, and open-minded mountain town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

El Paso

El Paso is a low-key, undiscovered, and laid-back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Asheville and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Asheville or El Paso?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Asheville than El Paso. While El Paso is larger than Asheville, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while El Paso attracts visitors for its museums. Asheville is more touristy than El Paso and is popular 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. El Paso is famous for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Asheville different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Asheville
El Paso

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

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Asheville
El Paso

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

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

El Paso is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Asheville has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Music?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for live music. However, El Paso is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Asheville while you're in town. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

El Paso is not a live music destination.


Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Resorts?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is very good for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or El Paso Better for its Old Town?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a decent place to visit for its historic old town. However, El Paso does not have a historic old town.

Asheville is a good place to visit the old town. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

El Paso does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Hiking?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, El Paso is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Asheville. 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.

El Paso is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or El Paso?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for shopping. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

El Paso offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Christmas?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, El Paso does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Asheville is a very popular place to visit 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.

El Paso does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a decent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Families?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Asheville is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Couples?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Asheville makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Asheville is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

El Paso is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's little in the area that appeals to backpackers.


Is Asheville or El Paso Better for Students?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, El Paso is not popular with students.

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

El Paso is not popular with students.

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

Asheville
El Paso

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Asheville and El Paso.

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 mostly limited in El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

Is Asheville or El Paso a more walkable city?

Asheville
El Paso

Asheville is very good for its walkability. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Asheville is somewhat walkable. 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.

El Paso is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around town.


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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or El Paso?

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

Families should spend more time in Asheville than El Paso. 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 El Paso. 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 El Paso 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 El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Asheville 2-3 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Asheville or El Paso?

In Asheville, you'll find nightlife and live music. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Asheville or El Paso?

In Asheville, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Asheville has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid-back destination of El Paso. 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 El Paso?

Asheville is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered city of El Paso. 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 El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Asheville. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Asheville. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

El Paso 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 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, El Paso 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 El Paso is $161. 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 El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Asheville $89
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Asheville $178
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Asheville and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Asheville or El Paso? 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 El Paso


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 El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Asheville $14
    El Paso $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

Also for El Paso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $120
  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $240
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Asheville or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso 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
    El Paso $54
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.

  • Electric Bike Tour of Asheville's Best Pizza: $98
  • Best Pizza E-bike Tour: $111

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Asheville $16
    El Paso $27
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:

  • (3 HR) Guided Safari Jeep Mile-High & Waterfall Adventure: $100
  • (3 HR) Off-Road UTV Wilderness Adventure : $175
  • (4 HR) UTV Sunset, Waterfall, and Eco Elk Wilderness Adventure : $275
  • 2.5-Hour Blue Ridge Parkway Guided Jeep Tour: $99
  • Amazing Asheville Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Asheville Child-Focused Mountain and Waterfall Tour: $250
  • Asheville Coffee Tours: $65
  • Asheville Ghost Tour: A Walk Through Riverside Cemetery & Montford Neighborhood: $27
  • Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views: $75
  • Asheville Historic Highlights: Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour : $27

Tours and Activities in El Paso

For El Paso, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Sun City Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Sun City Ghosts Haunted Cowboys and Outlaws Tour: $30
  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $115
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $120
  • Jeep Tour - Pikes Peak or Bust: $175
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $249

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Asheville $16
    El Paso $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Asheville

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

  • 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
  • 3-Hour Guided Walking Brewery Tour Through Downtown Asheville: $69
  • Electric Bike Brewery Crawl of Asheville: $74
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $99
  • Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Asheville and El Paso, we can see that El Paso 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 El Paso would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in El Paso 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 El Paso Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Asheville or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and El Paso, 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.