A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlotte vs. Cape Cod for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Charlotte or Cape Cod?

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 Charlotte and Cape Cod can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a evolving, up-and-coming, and growing city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a wealthy, maritime, and beautiful beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Charlotte and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Cape Cod?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charlotte. Although Charlotte and Cape Cod are popular destinations, Charlotte has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charlotte is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Cape Cod attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Charlotte is famous for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. It is also well known for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charlotte or Cape Cod?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Charlotte is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Charlotte or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Charlotte or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Charlotte is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Charlotte has a few options to choose from. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Charlotte or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.


Is Charlotte or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is Charlotte or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for hiking. However, Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Cape Cod?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for its shopping areas. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Charlotte is a great destination for shopping. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.


Is Charlotte or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Charlotte or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Charlotte or Cape Cod Better for Students?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Charlotte is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charlotte. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.


Is Charlotte or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Charlotte is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Charlotte offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Charlotte or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Cape Cod

Charlotte and Cape Cod are nice when it comes to walkability.

Charlotte is a somewhat walkable city. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

For even more information, also check out Is Charlotte Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Cape Cod?

Both Charlotte and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Charlotte. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlotte than Cape Cod 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 Charlotte.


  • How many days in Charlotte or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Charlotte or Cape Cod?

The city of Charlotte offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Charlotte or Cape Cod?

Charlotte is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charlotte, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Charlotte or Cape Cod?

Charlotte 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.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.

A week in Charlotte or Cape Cod?

Charlotte 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 city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod, 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cape Cod or Charlotte?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $191, while the average daily cost in Cape Cod is $183. 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 Charlotte and Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte or Cape Cod? 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 Charlotte


Hotels in Cape Cod


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Cape Cod $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

Also for Charlotte, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $136
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $133
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $133
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $46
    Cape Cod $60
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlotte $43
    Cape Cod $27

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Charlotte.

  • 2.5 Hour Black History Van Tour-Perseverance, Power, and Progress: $59
  • 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte: $75
  • Beer & BBQ Walking Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $115
  • Big Bite Brew Tour in Charlotte's LoSo District: $150
  • Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour : $27
  • Charlotte Comedy City Tour: $40
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • Charlotte Historic : Queen Bee City Tour: $39
  • Charlotte Historical City Tour: $45
  • Charlotte Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $90

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Cape Cod $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


When comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Cape Cod, we can see that Charlotte 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 Charlotte Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Charlotte or Cape Cod?

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 Charlotte or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Charlotte in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Charlotte is a little warmer than Cape Cod in the summer. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod during summer. Charlotte gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Charlotte. In July, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Cape Cod. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Charlotte during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Charlotte is a little warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charlotte in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. In the autumn, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Charlotte usually gets less rain in October than Cape Cod. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Cape Cod. The winter months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. In January, Charlotte is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 42°F (6°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Charlotte usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during winter. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Charlotte usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Cape Cod. The activities around the city are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Charlotte is much warmer than Cape Cod in the spring. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte this time of the year. In the spring, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Charlotte usually gets less rain in April than Cape Cod. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Charlotte

Charlotte Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)