A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Carmel-by-the-Sea for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a quaint, charming, and picturesque town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Atlanta. Although Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations, Atlanta has more sights and attractions for tourists. Atlanta is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Atlanta is famous for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also well known for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Atlanta different from Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Atlanta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Atlanta is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Atlanta on the map. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Atlanta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a great culinary experience. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

Is Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Atlanta offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for the beach. However, Atlanta is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Atlanta is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Atlanta is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Atlanta is a world class destination for shoppers. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Is Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Atlanta is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Atlanta is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Students?

Atlanta is a well-known place for students. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Atlanta. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Is Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Is Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very walkable destination. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Atlanta than in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 1-3 days is enough time in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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

Couples should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Atlanta. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Atlanta.

One day in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

When visiting Atlanta, people usually allow for lots of time. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

When visiting Atlanta, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural big city of Atlanta. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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.

A week in Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Atlanta is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Since Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea, we can see that Atlanta is more expensive. And not only is Carmel-by-the-Sea much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Atlanta would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Atlanta than you might in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Atlanta Expensive? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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 Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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 Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Summer?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Atlanta during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Atlanta is much warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in July than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Atlanta is a little warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlanta in October average around 66°F (19°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Atlanta is generally cooler than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 45°F (7°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the winter. Atlanta usually gets more rain in January than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlanta or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Spring?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Atlanta for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Atlanta is a little warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 65°F (18°C) in April, and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In April, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Carmel-by-the-Sea and Atlanta