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

Should you visit Austin or Charlottesville?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin 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.

Austin

Austin is a entrepreneurial, eccentric, and unconventional city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. Austin is beautiful destination to visit. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Austin travel costs.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a traditional, young, and collegiate university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Charlottesville is a gorgeous place to visit. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums. See Charlottesville travel costs.

Austin and Charlottesville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Charlottesville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin. Although Austin and Charlottesville are popular destinations, Austin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Austin is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Charlottesville attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Austin is more touristy than Charlottesville and is popular for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital. Charlottesville is famous for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Austin different from Charlottesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charlottesville and Austin. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Charlottesville?

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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 Austin or Charlottesville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Charlottesville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin or Charlottesville Better for Nightlife?

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

Austin is a must-see party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Austin or Charlottesville Better for Music?

Austin is terrific for its live music scene. However, Charlottesville is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Austin. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Charlottesville is not a live music destination.

Is Austin or Charlottesville Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Charlottesville to see the historical old town. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Austin or Charlottesville Better for Hiking?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Charlottesville?

Austin is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Austin or Charlottesville More Beautiful?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its scenery and beauty.

Charlottesville is a gorgeous place to visit. Surrounded by the Shenandoah Mountains, this is a beautiful town and home to the beautiful University of Virginia.

Austin is beautiful destination to visit. The city has some nearby natural beauty as well as an eclectic style.

Is Austin or Charlottesville Better for Families?

Austin and Charlottesville are both nice destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Austin. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Charlottesville offers lots of family activities. 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 Austin or Charlottesville Better for Couples?

Austin and Charlottesville are both nice to visit as a couple.

Austin is a nice destination for couples. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Charlottesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Austin or Charlottesville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlottesville is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

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 Austin or Charlottesville Better for Students?

Charlottesville is a world-class destination for students. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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 Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Charlottesville.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charlottesville. There is a bus system that runs between campus, downtown, and several neighborhoods in Charlottesville.

Is Austin or Charlottesville a more walkable city?

Austin and Charlottesville both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Austin is generally not very walkable. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

Charlottesville is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Austin Worth Visiting? and Is Charlottesville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlottesville or Austin?

How long in Austin or Charlottesville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Austin and Charlottesville. In our opinion, Austin has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Austin than Charlottesville. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin 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 Austin.

One day in Austin or Charlottesville?

The lively destination of Austin offers live music and food. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or Charlottesville?

The city of Austin offers food and shopping. 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 is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Charlottesville?

Austin 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charlottesville. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Charlottesville?

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

Charlottesville is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When comparing the travel costs between Austin and Charlottesville, we can see that Charlottesville 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 Austin Expensive? and Is Charlottesville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Austin or Charlottesville?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Charlottesville. When comparing the sizes of Austin 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 Austin or Charlottesville?

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 Austin or Charlottesville in the Summer?

Both Charlottesville and Austin during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, 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 the summer, Austin is a little warmer than Charlottesville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Austin in July average around 87°F (30°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 78°F (26°C).

In Charlottesville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Austin. In the summer, Austin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 305 hours of full sun.

Charlottesville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Austin usually gets less rain in July than Charlottesville. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Charlottesville in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Charlottesville. Many visitors come to Austin in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Charlottesville for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Austin is generally a little warmer than Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 73°F (23°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlottesville this time of the year. In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. Austin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville during autumn. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Austin usually receives less rain than Charlottesville. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Austin or Charlottesville in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Austin as well as Charlottesville. Most visitors come to Austin 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. Austin is much warmer than Charlottesville in the winter. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In the winter, Austin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 169 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets less rain in January than Charlottesville. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Charlottesville in the Spring?

Both Charlottesville and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Austin because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year.

In the spring, Austin is much warmer than Charlottesville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Austin in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlottesville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. Austin usually receives less sunshine than Charlottesville during spring. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 265 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Austin usually receives more rain than Charlottesville. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charlottesville and Austin