A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Charlottesville for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Beaufort or Charlottesville?

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

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

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a traditional, young, and collegiate university town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's 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.

Beaufort and Charlottesville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beaufort or Charlottesville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beaufort. Although Beaufort and Charlottesville are popular destinations, Beaufort has more sights and attractions for tourists. Beaufort is very popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Charlottesville attracts visitors for its nightlife, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Beaufort is more touristy than Charlottesville and is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. It is also well known for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. 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 Beaufort different from Charlottesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Beaufort and Charlottesville have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Charlottesville offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Beaufort or Charlottesville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Beaufort has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

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 Beaufort or Charlottesville Better for Nightlife?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Charlottesville Better for Beaches?

Beaufort is a good destination for the beache. However, Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Beaufort offers a nice beach destination. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Charlottesville Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is a great town for its old town. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Charlottesville offers a nice historic old town area. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Is Beaufort or Charlottesville Better for Hiking?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

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

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Charlottesville?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Beaufort or Charlottesville Better for Christmas?

Charlottesville is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Beaufort does not offer Christmas activities.

Charlottesville is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. From Christmas lights on campus to a festive atmosphere at the Monticello, the town is beautiful for Christmas.

Beaufort does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Beaufort or Charlottesville Better for Families?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Charlottesville Better for Couples?

Beaufort is a great town for its romantic activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for couples.

Beaufort is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Charlottesville is a good town for couples to visit. 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 Beaufort or Charlottesville Better for Students?

Charlottesville is renowned for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Charlottesville is a moderate university town for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Beaufort or Charlottesville a more walkable city?

Beaufort is a great town for its high level of walkability. However, Charlottesville is not known for its ease of walking around.

Beaufort is a very walkable town. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Charlottesville or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Charlottesville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Beaufort and Charlottesville. In our opinion, Charlottesville has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Charlottesville than Beaufort. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-3 days is enough time in Charlottesville.

Families should spend more time in Charlottesville than Beaufort. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Charlottesville, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlottesville than Beaufort 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 Charlottesville.

One day in Beaufort or Charlottesville?

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The university town of Charlottesville offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Beaufort or Charlottesville?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this university town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charlottesville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Charlottesville?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Charlottesville 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.

A week in Beaufort or Charlottesville?

Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 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 university town offers something for everyone.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beaufort and Charlottesville, we can see that Charlottesville is more expensive. And not only is Beaufort much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beaufort would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beaufort 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 Charlottesville would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Charlottesville than you might in Beaufort.

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

Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Charlottesville?

Charlottesville has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort 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 Beaufort 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 Beaufort or Charlottesville in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Charlottesville. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, 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, Beaufort is around the same temperature as Charlottesville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beaufort in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 78°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets less sunshine than Charlottesville. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 305 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Charlottesville. Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Charlottesville. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beaufort or Charlottesville in the Autumn?

Both Charlottesville and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 68°F (20°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlottesville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Charlottesville. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beaufort or Charlottesville in the Winter?

Both Charlottesville and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, 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. Beaufort is much warmer than Charlottesville in the winter. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 169 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Charlottesville. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beaufort or Charlottesville in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Charlottesville. The spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year.

In the spring, Beaufort is a little warmer than Charlottesville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beaufort in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 58°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlottesville this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 265 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charlottesville. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charlottesville and Beaufort