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

Should you visit Baltimore or Charleston?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Charleston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Charleston

Charleston is a classic, picturesque, and charming coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Baltimore and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Baltimore or Charleston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Charleston than Baltimore. While Baltimore is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Charleston is more popular for its food, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Baltimore is known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. Charleston is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also home to The Waterfront Park.

How is Baltimore different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baltimore or Charleston?

Baltimore is notable 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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 Baltimore or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Charleston has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Baltimore has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Is Baltimore or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

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

Baltimore has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

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 Baltimore or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is very good for its live music scene. However, Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Is Baltimore or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Charleston is very good for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Charleston makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is Baltimore or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston is well known for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Charleston is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Baltimore or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Charleston is revered around the world. 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.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Charleston?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Charleston make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Baltimore. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Is Baltimore or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Baltimore does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Charleston. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Baltimore does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Baltimore or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is very good for its Christmas markets. However, Baltimore does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston offers some nice Christmas markets. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Baltimore does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Baltimore or Charleston Better for Families?

Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

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 Baltimore or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Charleston has plenty to offer. 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.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Baltimore or Charleston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore 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 Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

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 Baltimore or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is very good for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

Charleston is popular with students. 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.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

Baltimore is notable for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Baltimore offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Baltimore or Charleston a more walkable city?

Baltimore and Charleston both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Baltimore is a very walkable city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Baltimore Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Charleston?

Both Baltimore 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 Baltimore. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Baltimore, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

Families should spend more time in Charleston than Baltimore. 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 Baltimore. 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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore.

One day in Baltimore or Charleston?

With museums and nightlife around the vibrant city of Baltimore, there's plenty to do. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint coastal town of Charleston. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

A weekend in Baltimore or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Baltimore, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find live music and food around the quaint destination of Charleston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Baltimore or Charleston?

Baltimore, 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic coastal town of Charleston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

A week in Baltimore or Charleston?

Baltimore 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.

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Charleston?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore 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 Baltimore or Charleston?

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 Baltimore or Charleston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Charleston. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Baltimore is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baltimore in July average around 78°F (25°C), and Charleston averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during summer. Baltimore gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charleston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Charleston. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Baltimore or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Charleston. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Baltimore is generally cooler than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 57°F (14°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In the autumn, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Charleston. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Baltimore or Charleston in the Winter?

Both Charleston and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baltimore can get quite cold in the winter. Baltimore is much colder than Charleston in the winter. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 32°F (0°C) in January, and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

Baltimore usually receives less sunshine than Charleston during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Baltimore usually receives less rain than Charleston. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Baltimore or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Baltimore is cooler than Charleston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baltimore in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Charleston averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the spring, Baltimore often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets more rain in April than Charleston. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Baltimore