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

Should you visit Atlanta or Galveston?

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

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

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Atlanta and Galveston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Galveston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Atlanta than Galveston, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Atlanta is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Galveston is known for its beaches, historical sights, and small town charm. Galveston is more touristy than Atlanta and is known for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. Atlanta is popular 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.

How is Atlanta different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlanta
Galveston

Atlanta is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Galveston can be an interesting and educational experience. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.


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

Atlanta
Galveston

Atlanta is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Atlanta or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Galveston

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Atlanta and Galveston.

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.

Galveston offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

Is Atlanta or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Atlanta
Galveston

Galveston is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Atlanta is not a beach destination.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Atlanta is not a beach destination.


Is Atlanta or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Atlanta
Galveston

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

Galveston has an old town worth visiting. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Galveston?

Atlanta
Galveston

Atlanta is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Atlanta or Galveston Better for Families?

Atlanta
Galveston

Atlanta and Galveston are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. 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.

Galveston is a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.


Is Atlanta or Galveston Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Galveston

Galveston is a great town for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Galveston is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

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 Galveston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Galveston

Atlanta is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Atlanta is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Atlanta or Galveston Better for Students?

Atlanta
Galveston

Atlanta is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

Atlanta is very popular with students. 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.

Galveston is not popular with students.


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

Atlanta
Galveston

Atlanta and Galveston 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 Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Is Atlanta or Galveston a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Galveston

Atlanta and Galveston are good when it comes to walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

Galveston is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

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

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Galveston?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Galveston 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.


  • How many days in Atlanta or Galveston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Galveston 1-3

One day in Atlanta or Galveston?

People visit Atlanta because there is so much to do. 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.

In Galveston, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Galveston?

People visit Atlanta because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Galveston, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Galveston has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Atlanta. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Galveston 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 Galveston?

Atlanta is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galveston. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galveston. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Galveston or Atlanta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in Galveston is $183. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Atlanta and Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Galveston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Atlanta


Hotels in Galveston


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Galveston $35
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

Also for Atlanta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL):Transfer to Atlanta: $282
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $197
  • Roundtrip transfer in executive private car from Atlanta Airport to Alpharetta: $144
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $135
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in SUV/Van: $135
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV: $135
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Sedan Car: $120
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Sedan Car: $120
  • Private Transfer: Atlanta to H. J. Airport ATL in Business Car: $120
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Business Car: $120
  • Roundtrip Transfer PrivateExecutive Vehicle Atlanta Airport(ATL)-AtlantaDowntown: $105
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $98

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

Also for Galveston, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $195
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $195
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $195
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $170
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $170

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston and Atlanta change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Atlanta $43
    Galveston $52
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

For Atlanta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

For Galveston, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Galveston $15

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Atlanta.

  • 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market: $95
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta: $69
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Midtown Atlanta: $69
  • 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour : $99
  • 3-Hour Private Atlanta MCU Comics Inspired Film Location Tour: $159
  • 90-Minute Guided Sightseeing Tour by E-Car or MiniBus: $36
  • 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta: $36
  • African-American Heritage&Civil Rights Atlanta Half-Day Tour: $666
  • Art on the Streets: Private Atlanta Public and Street Art Tour: $159
  • Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus: $70
  • Atlanta Beltline Cocktails and Bites Experience: $90
  • Atlanta Braves Baseball Game Ticket at Truist Park: $17

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • 2 Hours Private Cemeteries of Galveston Walking Tour: $182
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $25
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $25
  • Dark Side and Cemeteries of Galveston – Walking Tour: $357
  • Demo and Reno Galveston Reconstructed Private Tour: $85
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $34
  • Galveston Cemetery Private Tour: $85
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour with Red Light District: $19
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $25
  • Galveston Great Storm Talk and Tour : $60
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Galveston $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Experience the Happy Hour Pub Crawl Tour in Galveston: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30


When comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Galveston, we can see that Galveston 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 Galveston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Galveston?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Galveston, 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 Galveston?

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 Galveston in the Summer?

Both Galveston and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Atlanta for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Atlanta is generally around the same temperature as Galveston. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 82°F (28°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In July, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Galveston. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlanta 82°F (28°C) 
    Galveston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Galveston in the Autumn?

Both Galveston and Atlanta during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Galveston this time of year.

Atlanta is cooler than Galveston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 66°F (19°C) in October, and Galveston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Atlanta usually gets more rain in October than Galveston. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlanta 66°F (19°C) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Galveston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Galveston. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Atlanta is much colder than Galveston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlanta in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Galveston averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Galveston. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlanta 45°F (7°C) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Galveston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Galveston. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Galveston in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Atlanta is generally cooler than Galveston. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 65°F (18°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. Atlanta usually gets more rain in April than Galveston. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlanta 65°F (18°C) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and Atlanta

Atlanta Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 49°F (9°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 57°F (14°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)