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

Should you visit Charleston or Norfolk?

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

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

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Charleston and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Norfolk?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Charleston than Norfolk. While Norfolk is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Charleston is more touristy than Norfolk 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. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Charleston different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Charleston and Norfolk.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Norfolk. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for live music. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a popular place for its resorts. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Beaches?

Charleston is a great destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Charleston can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Norfolk?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk 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 Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Families?

Charleston and Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is a family-friendly coastal town. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options 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 Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Charleston or Norfolk Better for Students?

Charleston is a popular place for students. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not popular with students.

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

Both Charleston and Norfolk 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 Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Charleston or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Charleston is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Charleston or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Charleston than Norfolk 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 Norfolk.

Families should spend more time in Charleston than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

In Charleston, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Charleston or Norfolk?

In Charleston, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Norfolk, 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.

Five days in Charleston or Norfolk?

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. In Charleston, you'll find live music and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Norfolk 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 New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Norfolk?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

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 Norfolk in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Charleston is around the same temperature as Norfolk. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Norfolk averages at about 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk 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 Norfolk during summer. Charleston gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

Norfolk 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 Norfolk. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Charleston or Norfolk in the Autumn?

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

In October, Charleston is generally a little warmer than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 67°F (19°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. In the autumn, Charleston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Charleston gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Norfolk. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Norfolk in the Winter?

Both Norfolk 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 Norfolk this time of year.

It's quite cold in Norfolk in the winter. Charleston is much warmer than Norfolk in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during winter. Charleston gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Charleston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Norfolk. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Charleston or Norfolk in the Spring?

Both Norfolk 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.

In the spring, Charleston is a little warmer than Norfolk. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Norfolk averages at about 58°F (14°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charleston. In the spring, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Norfolk. Charleston gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Norfolk. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Charleston