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

Should you visit Asheville or Newport?

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 Newport. 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 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.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Asheville and Newport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Newport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newport. Although Asheville and Newport are both popular with visitors, Newport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newport is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Asheville is known for its nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Newport is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also home to Thames Street. Asheville is popular for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate.

How is Asheville different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Newport is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Newport 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 Newport. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Newport Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for Music?

Asheville is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a live music destination.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for Resorts?

Asheville is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Newport for it's beautiful beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Newport 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 Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

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 Newport Better for Hiking?

Asheville is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Newport?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Newport 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 Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for Christmas?

Asheville is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Newport 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.

Newport does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Newport does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for Families?

Both Asheville and Newport 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 Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for Couples?

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

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

Is Asheville or Newport Better for Students?

Asheville is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not popular with students.

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

Newport 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 Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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

Is Asheville or Newport a more walkable city?

Newport 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.

Newport is a very walkable town. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Newport?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Newport 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 Newport?

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 town of Newport. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Newport?

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 charming destination of Newport. 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 Newport?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the charming town of Newport. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Asheville or Newport?

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.

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Newport?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Newport. Many travelers come to Asheville for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Asheville is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the summer temperatures in Asheville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Newport averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In the summer, Asheville often gets less sunshine than Newport. Asheville gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than Newport. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Asheville is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Newport during autumn. Asheville gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Asheville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Asheville or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Asheville during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. Asheville is much warmer than Newport in the winter. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 44°F (7°C) in January, and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Asheville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Asheville gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Asheville or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Newport. 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 Newport this time of year.

In the spring, Asheville is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Asheville in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Newport averages at about 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Newport during spring. Asheville gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than Newport. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Newport and Asheville