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

Should you visit Charleston or Lewisburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Lewisburg, 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums.

Charleston and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Charleston or Lewisburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Lewisburg is more popular for its small town charm. Charleston is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Charleston different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charleston
Lewisburg

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Charleston or Lewisburg.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. 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.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


Is the Food Better in Charleston or Lewisburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is a popular place for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Charleston has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Music?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is a popular place for live music. However, Lewisburg is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Lewisburg is not a live music destination.


Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Resorts?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is a popular place for its resorts. However, Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Beaches?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is well known for its beaches. However, Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Charleston is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its historic old town. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Lewisburg. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.


Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Lewisburg?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Christmas?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Lewisburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Lewisburg does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston and Lewisburg are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Charleston is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Lewisburg is a family-friendly coastal town. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston and Lewisburg are both notable destinations for students and younger travelers.

Charleston is a good coastal town to visit for 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.

Plenty of students visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.


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

Charleston
Lewisburg

Both Charleston and Lewisburg offer respectable public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Is Charleston or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Charleston
Lewisburg

Charleston is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Charleston or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Charleston than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Lewisburg 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 Charleston.


  • How many days in Charleston or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charleston 2-7 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Charleston or Lewisburg?

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.

With museums and shopping around the historical town of Lewisburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lewisburg, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Charleston or Lewisburg?

You'll find live music and food around the southern 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.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Lewisburg, 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 town.

Five days in Charleston or Lewisburg?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming 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.

Lewisburg, a popular town, 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.

A week in Charleston or Lewisburg?

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.

Lewisburg 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Charleston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Charleston is $170, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $136. 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 Charleston and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charleston $90
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charleston $180
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Charleston and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Charleston or Lewisburg? 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 Charleston


Hotels in Lewisburg


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: Charleston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charleston $33
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charleston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Charleston:

  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $173
  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Folly Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Kiawah/Seabrook Islands – Arrival Private Transfer: $117
  • Charleston Airport to Isle of Palms/Sullivans Island -Roundtrip Private Transfer: $206
  • Charleston Airport to Isle of Palms/Sullivans Island– Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • Charleston Airport: One-Way Transfer to Charleston: $153
  • Charleston city to Charleston Airport (CHS) - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Folly Beach to Charleston Airport (CHS) - Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • From Boone Hall Plantation Entry with Transfers: $71
  • Isle of Palms/Sullivans Island to Charleston Airport –Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • Private Transfer from Charleston City to Charleston Cruise Port: $54
  • Private Transfer from Charleston Cruise Port to Charleston city: $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Charleston or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Charleston 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
    Charleston $58
    Lewisburg $34
Typical Food Prices in Charleston

Some typical examples of dining costs in Charleston are as follows:


  • Lunch in downtown Charleston for two
    $21
  • Breakfast
    $26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Charleston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Charleston.

  • Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise: $63
  • Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $88
  • Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise: $93
  • Savor the Flavors Upper King Street Food Tour: $95
  • Charleston Food Tour: $99
  • Historic Downtown Food Tour with Tastings: $99
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $108
  • Charleston Farm-to-Table Food Tour and Chef's Challenge: $109
  • Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $110
  • Downtown Charleston Food Tour: $110
  • Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour: $110
  • Charleston's Savor the Flavors of Upper King Street Walking Food Tour: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charleston $22
    Lewisburg $18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Charleston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Charleston are as follows:


  • Patriots Point (for 2)
    $60

Tours and Activities in Charleston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Charleston are as follows:

  • The French Quarter: GPS Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided "The French Quarter Charleston" Solo Walking Tour: $7.50
  • Cinematic, Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Charleston: $10
  • Self-Guided Highlights Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • 300 Years of War and Peacetime in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio History Walking Tour: $12
  • Charleston Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Trolley Tour in Wadmalaw Island of South Carolina: $17
  • Evening History Tour: $20
  • Charleston's Miracle Mile: Church and Cemetery Walking Tour: $21
  • Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour: $23

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charleston $36
    Lewisburg $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Charleston

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

  • Women and Wine Tour: $18
  • Charleston Women and Wine Tour: $20
  • Guided Pub Crawl and Haunted History Tour: $30
  • Bay Street Bastards Pub Crawl Shared Tour in Charleston : $35
  • Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl: $35
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Historic District Haunted Pub Crawl Tour: $40
  • Charleston Brewery District Cruise (Public Tour): $95
  • Wadmalaw Island Wine Tasting and Tea Garden Trip: $135
  • Half Day Party Bus Brewery Tour of Charleston: $140


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

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


Which is Bigger, Charleston or Lewisburg?

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

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 Charleston or Lewisburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Lewisburg. Many visitors come to Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Charleston is a little warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lewisburg this time of the year. In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charleston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg during summer. Charleston gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

Lewisburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Charleston usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charleston 82°F (28°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Charleston or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Lewisburg. Most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Lewisburg because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Charleston is generally much warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 67°F (19°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Charleston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg. Charleston gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets less rain in October than Lewisburg. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charleston 67°F (19°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Charleston or Lewisburg in the Winter?

Both Lewisburg and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lewisburg in the winter. Charleston is much warmer than Lewisburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

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

In January, Charleston usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charleston 47°F (9°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Charleston or Lewisburg in the Spring?

Both Lewisburg and Charleston during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the small town charm.

In the spring, Charleston is much warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Lewisburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charleston. In the spring, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Charleston gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets less rain in April than Lewisburg. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charleston 64°F (18°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Charleston

Charleston Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 47°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 50°F (10°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 58°F (14°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 58°F (15°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 51°F (10°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)