A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Portland, Maine for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Asheville or Portland, Maine?

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 Portland, Maine. 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 progressive, open-minded, and eclectic mountain town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a picturesque, seaside, and laid-back coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Asheville and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Portland, Maine?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Asheville. Although Asheville and Portland, Maine are about the same size, Asheville has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Asheville is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Portland, Maine is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Asheville is popular for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. It is also home to The Biltmore Estate. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Asheville different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland, Maine and Asheville. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is the Food Better in Asheville or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Asheville and Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Music?

Asheville is well known for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Asheville. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a popular place for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is a mountain town with a few options for its historic old town charm. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Asheville is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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 people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Portland, Maine?

Asheville is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Asheville is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its Christmas holiday experiences.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Asheville. 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.

Portland, Maine has some seasonal activities during Christmas. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is a mountain town with a few options for its Christmas markets. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Asheville is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Asheville is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Asheville is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Asheville frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Asheville is a very popular mountain town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine Better for Students?

Asheville is well known for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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

Asheville is a mountain town with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Asheville or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Asheville is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

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.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable mountain town. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Asheville and Portland, Maine. In our opinion, Asheville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Asheville than Portland, Maine. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Asheville than Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

The outdoorsy destination of Asheville offers nightlife and live music. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal town of Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine?

The mountain town of Asheville offers live music and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Portland, Maine?

Asheville is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This mountain town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the seaside coastal town of Portland, Maine. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Asheville or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine, we can see that Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Portland, Maine?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Portland, Maine, 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 Portland, Maine?

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 Portland, Maine in the Summer?

Both Portland, Maine and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Asheville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Asheville is a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the summer temperatures in Asheville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during summer. Asheville gets 268 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. In July, Asheville usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Asheville or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Asheville during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Asheville for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Asheville is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Asheville. In the autumn, Asheville often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Asheville gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Asheville or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Portland, Maine. Many visitors come to Asheville in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland, Maine can be very cold during winter. Asheville is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the winter. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 44°F (7°C) in January, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during winter. Asheville gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Asheville usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Asheville or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Portland, Maine. Most visitors come to Asheville for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Asheville is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the spring temperatures in Asheville in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 43°F (6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In the spring, Asheville often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Asheville gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun.

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the spring. Asheville usually gets more rain in April than Portland, Maine. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Asheville