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

Should you visit Charlotte or Charleston?

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 Charleston 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Charleston

Charleston is a picturesque, charming, and southern coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Charlotte and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charlotte or Charleston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Charleston than Charlotte. While Charlotte is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its food, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Charlotte attracts visitors for its big city activities. Charleston is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park. Charlotte is famous for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Charlotte different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Charleston and Charlotte.

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.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

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

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

Charleston has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

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 Charleston Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is nice in both Charlotte and Charleston.

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.

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.

Is Charlotte or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is very good for its music scene. However, Charlotte is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Charlotte is not a live music destination.

Is Charlotte or Charleston Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Is Charlotte or Charleston Better for Beaches?

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

Charleston is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is Charlotte or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

Charleston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Charleston?

Charleston is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Charleston specifically to go shopping. 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.

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 Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Charlotte does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is a very popular destination during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Charlotte does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charlotte or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is very good for visiting Christmas markets. However, Charlotte does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston offers some nice Christmas markets. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Charlotte does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charlotte or Charleston Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Charlotte or Charleston.

Charlotte offers lots of family activities. 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.

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.

Is Charlotte or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is terrific for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Charleston 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.

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 Charleston Better for Students?

For students, both Charlotte and Charleston are nice places to visit.

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.

Charleston is a good city 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.

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

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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

Is Charlotte or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Charleston?

Both Charlotte and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Charlotte. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Charlotte 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 Charlotte or Charleston?

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

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.

A weekend in Charlotte or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Charlotte, 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.

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

Five days in Charlotte or Charleston?

Charlotte, 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.

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.

A week in Charlotte or Charleston?

Charlotte 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.

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.

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.

When comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Charleston, 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 Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Charleston?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Charlotte and Charleston, 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 Charlotte or Charleston?

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 Charlotte or Charleston in the Summer?

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

Charlotte is around the same temperature as Charleston in the summer. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charlotte. In the summer, Charlotte often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Charlotte gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually gets less rain in July than Charleston. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charlotte or Charleston in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Charlotte is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charlotte in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Charleston averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charlotte usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charlotte usually receives less rain than Charleston. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Charlotte or Charleston in the Winter?

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

In January, Charlotte is generally cooler than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 42°F (6°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

In the winter, Charlotte often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Charlotte usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Charleston. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charlotte or Charleston in the Spring?

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

Charlotte is around the same temperature as Charleston in the spring. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during spring. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Charleston. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Charlotte