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

Should you visit Charleston or Nashville?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Nashville, 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 historic, classic, and picturesque 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Nashville

Nashville is a country music lovers, eclectic, and southern city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Charleston and Nashville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Nashville?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Charleston than Nashville. While Nashville is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Nashville is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Charleston is more touristy than Nashville and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Nashville is well known for its influence in country music and its many live music venues.

How is Charleston different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Nashville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

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

Charleston is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Charleston have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nashville. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for Nightlife?

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

Nashville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

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 Charleston or Nashville Better for Music?

Nashville is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for live music.

In Nashville you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

You'll find some good live music in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, notable resorts can be found in both Charleston and Nashville.

Charleston has a few great resort options. 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.

Nashville has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for Beaches?

Charleston is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Nashville is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. 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.

Nashville is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Nashville 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.

Nashville does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Nashville?

Charleston is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Charleston. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Nashville has some nice offerings. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Charleston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Nashville offers some nice Christmas activities. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a coastal town with good options for visiting Christmas markets. However, Nashville does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Nashville does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for Families?

Charleston and Nashville 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.

Nashville is a family-friendly coastal town. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for Couples?

Charleston is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Charleston is a great coastal town for couples, as it 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.

Nashville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.

Is Charleston or Nashville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nashville 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 Nashville. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

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 Charleston or Nashville Better for Students?

Charleston is a coastal town with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for students.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. 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.

Nashville is a decent spot for students. Several universities bring in international students, but the city is smaller and it isn't the most popular student destination in America.

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

Charleston is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Charleston or Nashville a more walkable city?

Charleston is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options 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.

Nashville is not a walkable coastal town. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Nashville or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Nashville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charleston and Nashville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Nashville. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nashville.

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

One day in Charleston or Nashville?

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 nightlife around the southern city of Nashville, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Charleston or Nashville?

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 nightlife and live music around the destination of Nashville, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Charleston or Nashville?

You'll find food and shopping around the classic 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.

Nashville, 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.

A week in Charleston or Nashville?

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.

Nashville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Nashville?

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Nashville, 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 Nashville?

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 Charleston or Nashville in the Summer?

Both Nashville and Charleston during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nashville for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charleston is around the same temperature as Nashville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Nashville averages at about 81°F (27°C).

In Nashville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charleston. In the summer, Charleston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nashville. Charleston gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 276 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually gets more rain in July than Nashville. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Nashville in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Nashville. Many travelers come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nashville in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Charleston is generally a little warmer than Nashville. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 67°F (19°C), and Nashville fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nashville this time of the year. Charleston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nashville during autumn. Charleston gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 212 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charleston usually receives more rain than Nashville. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Charleston or Nashville in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Nashville. Many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Nashville for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nashville can be very cold during winter. Charleston is much warmer than Nashville in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Nashville fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

In the winter, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Nashville. Charleston gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 134 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Nashville. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Nashville in the Spring?

Both Nashville and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nashville because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Charleston is around the same temperature as Nashville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Nashville averages at about 62°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Nashville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Nashville during spring. Charleston gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 234 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nashville. In April, Charleston usually receives less rain than Nashville. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nashville and Charleston