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

Should you visit Atlanta or Charlottesville?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Charlottesville, 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 diverse, sprawling, and suburban city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a traditional, young, and collegiate university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. 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 hiking.

Atlanta and Charlottesville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlanta or Charlottesville?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlanta. Although Atlanta and Charlottesville are both popular with visitors, Atlanta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Atlanta is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Charlottesville is known for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Atlanta is more touristy than Charlottesville and is known 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 home to the Georgia Aquarium. Charlottesville is popular for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Atlanta different from Charlottesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlanta is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Atlanta are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlottesville. A highlight of a trip to the area is a visit to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The city is also famously home to the beautiful University of Virginia, which has a manicured and beautiful campus. History buffs will also appreciate visiting the Civil War Sites that are nearby as well.

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

Atlanta is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Charlottesville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Atlanta has a huge number of terrific 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.

Charlottesville may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Head to the Historic Downtown Mall to enjoy an outdoor meal at a top rated restaurant. There are also restaurants that cater specifically to students and offer affordable and quick meals.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Atlanta has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlottesville. Charlottesville is a university town with an active nightlife. The best areas for nightlife are found around the Downtown Mall, Belmont neighborhood, the Corner, and University Ave west near the mall. Even though there are a number of activities to enjoy at night, this is still a small town and the nightlife scene reflects that.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville Better for its Old Town?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Charlottesville has an old town worth visiting. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville Better for Hiking?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Charlottesville has hiking trails worth exploring. Just outside of town there are plenty of hiking opportunities including in and around Shenandoah National Park. Hiking is at its best during the fall season when the leaves are changing.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Charlottesville?

Atlanta is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Atlanta draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville Better for Christmas?

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

Charlottesville is a very popular destination during Christmas. From Christmas lights on campus to a festive atmosphere at the Monticello, the town is beautiful for Christmas.

Atlanta does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville Better for Families?

Atlanta is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Atlanta is very family-friendly. 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.

Charlottesville is a family-friendly place to visit. Wandering the campus of UVA, picking fruit at Carter Mountain Orchard or exploring the downtown mall, including the Virginia Discovery Museum are all activities that everyone can enjoy. There are also great hiking trails just outside of town.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville Better for Couples?

Atlanta and Charlottesville are both good to visit as a couple.

Atlanta is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Charlottesville is a nice destination for couples. The UVA campus is beautiful to explore, as is Monticello. The Downtown Mall has many great restaurants and activities that make for a nice date night and during the day, there's also beautiful hikes nearby that are at their peak during the fall season.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlottesville is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Charlottesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is camping an hiking in the area that is a good option for backpackers.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville Better for Students?

Charlottesville is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Charlottesville is a great destination for students. The town is home to the beautiful University of Virginia and it's a popular destination for international students as well as local students. Much of the town is focused around student life, and the city's proximity to Washington, DC means it has access to global opportunities.

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.

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

Atlanta and Charlottesville both offer decent 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 Charlottesville. There is a bus system that runs between campus, downtown, and several neighborhoods in Charlottesville.

Is Atlanta or Charlottesville a more walkable city?

Atlanta is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Charlottesville is not known for its ease of walking around.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Charlottesville is generally not very walkable. While the University of Virginia campus and the Downtown Mall are both very walkable, most of the town is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Charlottesville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlottesville or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Charlottesville?

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

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

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

Atlanta is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Charlottesville is a small town with plenty to do. This university 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 Charlottesville?

Atlanta is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Charlottesville 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charlottesville has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Charlottesville?

Atlanta is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Charlottesville is a great place to explore. 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 Charlottesville?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Atlanta. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charlottesville. Since Charlottesville is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Charlottesville, 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 Charlottesville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Charlottesville?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Charlottesville. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Charlottesville, 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 Charlottesville?

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 Atlanta or Charlottesville in the Summer?

Both Charlottesville and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Charlottesville in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Atlanta is generally around the same temperature as Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 82°F (28°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlottesville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually receives less sunshine than Charlottesville during summer. Atlanta gets 271 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In July, Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charlottesville. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Atlanta or Charlottesville in the Autumn?

Both Charlottesville and Atlanta during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Charlottesville for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Atlanta is a little warmer than Charlottesville in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 66°F (19°C) in October, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Charlottesville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlanta. In the autumn, Atlanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Atlanta gets 222 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 221 hours of full sun.

Atlanta usually gets less rain in October than Charlottesville. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlanta or Charlottesville in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Charlottesville. Most visitors come to Atlanta for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charlottesville because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine.

The weather in Charlottesville can be very cold. In the winter, Atlanta is much warmer than Charlottesville. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlanta in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 36°F (2°C).

Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville during winter. Atlanta gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Charlottesville. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Atlanta or Charlottesville in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Charlottesville. The spring months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year.

In April, Atlanta is generally a little warmer than Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 65°F (18°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlanta this time of the year. In the spring, Atlanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Atlanta gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 265 hours of full sun.

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. Atlanta usually gets more rain in April than Charlottesville. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charlottesville and Atlanta