A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Charleston for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Atlanta or Charleston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Charleston, 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a picturesque, charming, and southern coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Atlanta and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlanta or Charleston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Charleston than Atlanta. While Atlanta is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its food, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Atlanta attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities. Charleston is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park. 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.

How is Atlanta different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlanta is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal 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.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Atlanta makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Atlanta has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Atlanta is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Charleston active and fun. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a few great resort options. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston is a great coastal town for the beach. However, Atlanta is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Charleston. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Atlanta is not a beach destination.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Charleston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Charleston?

If you're looking to go shopping, Atlanta and Charleston both offer plenty of amazing spots.

Many people travel to Atlanta specifically to go shopping. 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.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a great coastal town for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Atlanta does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is a very popular destination during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Atlanta does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Atlanta does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Atlanta does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Families?

Atlanta is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly city. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is terrific for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

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 Charleston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlanta. 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.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Students?

Atlanta is notable for students. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Is Atlanta or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta and Charleston 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 Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Atlanta or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is a great coastal town for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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 Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Charleston?

Both Atlanta and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Atlanta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Charleston 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 Charleston?

When visiting Atlanta, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Charleston, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Atlanta or Charleston?

When visiting Atlanta, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Charleston, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Charleston?

Atlanta, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or Charleston?

Atlanta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. In Charleston, you'll find live music and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Charleston, we can see that Atlanta is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Charleston?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Charleston, 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 Charleston?

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 Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Atlanta during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

Atlanta is around the same temperature as Charleston in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlanta. In the summer, Atlanta often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Atlanta gets 271 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets less rain in July than Charleston. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlanta or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Charleston. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Atlanta is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlanta in October average around 66°F (19°C), and Charleston averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Atlanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlanta usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Atlanta gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Atlanta or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Charleston. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Atlanta is generally cooler than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 45°F (7°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

In the winter, Atlanta often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Atlanta gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the winter. Atlanta usually gets more rain in January than Charleston. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlanta or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Atlanta is around the same temperature as Charleston in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 65°F (18°C) in April, and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during spring. Atlanta gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In April, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Charleston. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Atlanta