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

Should you visit Atlanta or New Bern?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or New Bern, 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 cultural, diverse, and sprawling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Atlanta travel costs.

New Bern

New Bern is a charming, laid back, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See New Bern travel costs.

Atlanta and New Bern: 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Atlanta or New Bern?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlanta than New Bern, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlanta is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while New Bern is more popular for its small town charm. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium. New Bern is well known for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is Atlanta different from New Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Atlanta that are not to be missed. 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.

New Bern offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.


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

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

New Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Is Atlanta or New Bern Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta is well known for nightlife. However, New Bern is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Atlanta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

New Bern doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or New Bern?

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Atlanta is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting New Bern. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.


Is Atlanta or New Bern Better for Families?

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Atlanta is 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.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is Atlanta or New Bern Better for Couples?

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta and New Bern are both notable 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.

New Bern is a nice destination for couples. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Is Atlanta or New Bern Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta is a popular place for backpackers. However, New Bern is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

New Bern is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not popular with backpackers in part because it's a small town that most people breeze through on their way to the beach.


Is Atlanta or New Bern Better for Students?

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta is well known for students. However, New Bern is not popular with students.

Atlanta is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

New Bern is not popular with students.

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

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, New Bern is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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 quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

Is Atlanta or New Bern a more walkable city?

Atlanta
New Bern

Atlanta and New Bern are notable 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.

New Bern is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in New Bern or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or New Bern?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Atlanta or New Bern to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Atlanta than New Bern because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 1-2 days is enough time in New Bern.

Families should spend more time in Atlanta than New Bern. 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 New Bern. 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 New Bern 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 New Bern? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    New Bern 1-2

One day in Atlanta or New Bern?

Atlanta is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

New Bern is a small town with plenty to do. 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 New Bern?

Atlanta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlanta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

New Bern 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 New Bern has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or New Bern?

Atlanta is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

New Bern 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 New Bern?

Atlanta is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Bern. Since New Bern 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 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, New Bern or Atlanta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Atlanta Prices
    USA Prices
    New Bern Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlanta $204
    New Bern $169

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $204, while the average daily cost in New Bern is $169. 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 New Bern in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    New Bern $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    New Bern $152
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and New Bern

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or New Bern? 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 New Bern


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 New Bern Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    New Bern $34
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:

  • Lithia Springs to Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta by SUV: $145
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Sedan Car: $130
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $107
  • Atlanta International Airport: Transfer to Atlanta City: $70
  • Atlanta Private Airport Transfer: $155
  • Atlanta to Atlanta Airport (ATL) - Departure Private Transfer: $56
  • Transfer from DeKalb-Peachtree Airport: $150
  • Transfer from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: $150
  • Black SUV Hourly Service & Luxury Airport Transfers: $125
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL by SUV: $145
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $145

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or New Bern?

Prices for flights to both New Bern 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 $74
    New Bern $70
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: $69
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Macaron Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class With a Local Chef: $75
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $90
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Walking Food Tour: $106
  • Atlanta Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Private Atlanta Cooking Class with a Fun Local Chef Naina: $139
  • Prohibition Themed Downtown Atlanta Progressive Dinner: $275

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    New Bern $26

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • App-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket: $22
  • Atlanta Walking Mural Tour : $25
  • World of Coca-Cola General Admission Ticket: $25
  • World of Coca-Cola General Admission Ticket: $25
  • The Burning & the Bound: Grievous Ghost Tour of Atlanta: $26
  • The Burning & the Bound: Grievous Ghost Tour of Atlanta: $27
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $29
  • Martin Luther King Jr An American Icon Walking Tour: $30
  • Midtown Walking Tour on Women's History: $30
  • Zoo Atlanta General Admission Ticket: $34
  • Atlanta Braves' Truist Park Guided Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    New Bern $30

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

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

  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120
  • North Georgia Mountains TWO Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $141
  • Elijay Hike w/ Waterfall & Wine Tasting Private Tour from ATL: $230
  • Georgia Vineyards Wine Tour: $2,300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atlanta and New Bern, we can see that Atlanta is more expensive. And not only is New Bern much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to New Bern would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in New Bern 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 New Bern.

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


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or New Bern?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of New Bern. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and New Bern, 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 New Bern?

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 New Bern in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as New Bern. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to New Bern for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Atlanta is around the same temperature as New Bern. Typically, the summer temperatures in Atlanta in July average around 82°F (28°C), and New Bern averages at about 80°F (27°C).

It's quite rainy in New Bern. Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atlanta usually gets less rain in July than New Bern. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 6.6 inches (169 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlanta 82°F (28°C) 
    New Bern 80°F (27°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or New Bern in the Autumn?

Both New Bern and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Atlanta for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to New Bern because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Atlanta is generally around the same temperature as New Bern. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 66°F (19°C), and New Bern fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

In October, Atlanta usually receives less rain than New Bern. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlanta 66°F (19°C) 
    New Bern 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or New Bern in the Winter?

Both New Bern and Atlanta during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to New Bern this time of year.

Atlanta is around the same temperature as New Bern in the winter. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and New Bern fluctuates around 44°F (7°C).

New Bern gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in January than New Bern. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlanta 45°F (7°C) 
    New Bern 44°F (7°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or New Bern in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and New Bern. The activities around the city are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to New Bern for the small town charm.

In the spring, Atlanta is a little warmer than New Bern. Typically, the spring temperatures in Atlanta in April average around 65°F (18°C), and New Bern averages at about 62°F (16°C).

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Atlanta usually receives more rain than New Bern. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlanta 65°F (18°C) 
    New Bern 62°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for New Bern and Atlanta

Atlanta New Bern
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 49°F (9°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Mar 57°F (14°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 69°F (21°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 76°F (25°C) 5 inches (126 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (169 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 79°F (26°C) 7.6 inches (192 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 65°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)