A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Nantucket for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Asheville or Nantucket?

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 Nantucket. 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 is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Asheville travel costs.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nantucket travel costs.

Asheville and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Asheville or Nantucket?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Asheville and Nantucket are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Asheville attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Nantucket is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, and local North Carolina barbecue.

How is Asheville different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Asheville
Nantucket

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

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Asheville
Nantucket

Nantucket is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Nantucket, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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.

Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Asheville
Nantucket

Asheville is a great mountain town for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Asheville has something for everybody. 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 Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for Music?

Asheville
Nantucket

Asheville is a great mountain town for live music. However, Nantucket is not a live music destination.

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

Nantucket is not a live music destination.


Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Asheville
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its resorts. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Nantucket to choose from. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

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.

Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Asheville
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for the beach. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Nantucket for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Asheville
Nantucket

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic 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 Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Asheville
Nantucket

Hiking trails can be found around both Asheville and Nantucket, and they are high quality.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Nantucket?

Asheville
Nantucket

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nantucket and Asheville.

Asheville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Asheville or Nantucket More Beautiful?

Asheville
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

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


Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for Families?

Asheville
Nantucket

Both Asheville and Nantucket are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Asheville is a very kid-friendly mountain town. 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 family-friendly things to do in Nantucket. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Asheville
Nantucket

Nantucket is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Nantucket is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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.

Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville
Nantucket

Asheville is a great mountain town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known 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.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.


Is Asheville or Nantucket Better for Students?

Asheville
Nantucket

Asheville is a great mountain town for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not popular with students.

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

Asheville
Nantucket

Nantucket 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 Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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 Nantucket a more walkable city?

Asheville
Nantucket

Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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 Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Asheville or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Nantucket 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 Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Asheville 2-3 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Asheville or Nantucket?

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.

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Nantucket?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the open-minded 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.

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the open-minded 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.

Nantucket 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. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Asheville or Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nantucket or Asheville?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Asheville Prices
    USA Prices
    Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Asheville $159
    Nantucket $409

The average daily cost (per person) in Asheville is $159, while the average daily cost in Nantucket is $409. 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 Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Asheville $89
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Asheville $178
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Asheville and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Asheville or Nantucket? 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 Nantucket


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 Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Asheville $14
    Nantucket $47

Is it cheaper to fly into Asheville or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket 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 $58
    Nantucket $141

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Asheville $20
    Nantucket $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Asheville

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


  • Biltmore Estate Entrance Fee
    $60
  • 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 Scenic UTV Adventure: $175
  • (4 HR) UTV ECO Elk Wilderness Adventure : $265
  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Asheville: $65
  • 2.5-3 hour Smoky Mountain Cherokee Blue Ridge Parkway Safari tour: $110
  • 2.5-Hour Blue Ridge Parkway Guided Jeep Tour: $109
  • 4 HR Smoky Mtn. Cherokee Eco Elk Waterfall Safari Jeep Adventure : $160
  • Asheville Coffee Tours: $67
  • Asheville Ghost Tour: A Walk Through Riverside Cemetery & Montford Neighborhood: $27
  • Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views: $75
  • Asheville Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour: $41
  • Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour : $27

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nantucket.

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $150
  • Guided Bike Tour: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Asheville $16
    Nantucket $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Asheville

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

  • Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Terrors, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • 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
  • 3 Brewery Walking Tour with Tastings: $74
  • Mobile Craft Brewery Tour with Tastings: $85
  • Floating Bar Crawl Tour: $90
  • Premier Mobile Guided Brewery Tour Around Asheville: $99
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $99
  • Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • 2 Vineyard Wine Tour of Western NC: $159


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


Which is Bigger, Asheville or Nantucket?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nantucket in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Asheville is generally a little warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 82°F (28°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than Nantucket. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Asheville 82°F (28°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Asheville or Nantucket in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Nantucket. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Asheville is much warmer than Nantucket in the autumn. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Nantucket fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Asheville usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Asheville 64°F (18°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Asheville or Nantucket in the Winter?

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

The weather in Nantucket can be very cold. In the winter, Asheville is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the winter temperatures in Asheville in January average around 44°F (7°C), and Nantucket averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Asheville receives a lot of rain in the winter. Asheville usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Nantucket. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Asheville 44°F (7°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Asheville or Nantucket in the Spring?

Both Nantucket 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 beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In April, Asheville is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. It's quite rainy in Asheville. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than Nantucket. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Asheville 64°F (18°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Asheville

Asheville Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 47°F (8°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 71°F (22°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (118 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 55°F (13°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 47°F (8°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)