A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. San Francisco for Food, Hiking, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Asheville or San Francisco?

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 San Francisco. 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. 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 shopping, nightlife, and live music.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and quirky coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Asheville and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or San Francisco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Asheville, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Francisco is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Asheville is known for its nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. San Francisco is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. 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 San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Francisco is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in San Francisco are among the most recognizable in the world. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a good destination for its theatre productions. However, Asheville is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Asheville is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco 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 San Francisco, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is a great mountain town for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

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 San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Music?

Asheville is a great mountain town for its music scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for live music.

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.

You'll find some good live music in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit San Francisco for it's beautiful beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is adequate for its historic old town charm. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

San Francisco is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or San Francisco?

San Francisco is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in San Francisco make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods 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.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Christmas?

Asheville is a great mountain town for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is adequate for visiting Christmas markets. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Francisco is very family-friendly. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Couples?

Asheville and San Francisco both great destinations for a couple.

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.

San Francisco is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville and San Francisco are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Asheville is a great mountain town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is Asheville or San Francisco Better for Students?

Asheville and San Francisco are great places to visit for students.

Many students visit Asheville. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

San Francisco is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

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

San Francisco is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Asheville is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in San Francisco can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and 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 San Francisco a more walkable city?

San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is a very walkable coastal city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or San Francisco?

Both Asheville and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Asheville. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Asheville 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 San Francisco.

One day in Asheville or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the progressive destination of Asheville. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. 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 San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Asheville. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the open-minded destination of Asheville. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Asheville or San Francisco?

You'll find live music and food around the mountain town of Asheville. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Asheville or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and San Francisco, 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 San Francisco?

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 San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Asheville during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Asheville in the summer for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Asheville is much warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Asheville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than San Francisco. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and San Francisco. Most visitors come to Asheville for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In October, Asheville usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Asheville or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Asheville as well as San Francisco. The winter months attract visitors to Asheville because of the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

Asheville is much colder than San Francisco in the winter. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 44°F (7°C) in January, and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the winter. Asheville usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as San Francisco. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Asheville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Asheville is a little warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Asheville in April average around 64°F (18°C), and San Francisco averages at about 58°F (14°C).

It's quite rainy in Asheville. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Asheville