A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlotte vs. Virginia Beach for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

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 Virginia Beach can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a growing, evolving, and up-and-coming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and bustling coastal city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches.

Charlotte and Virginia Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charlotte than Virginia Beach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Charlotte is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Virginia Beach is known for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Virginia Beach is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe. Charlotte is popular for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. It is also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte different from Virginia Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Charlotte offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Charlotte has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Is Charlotte or Virginia Beach Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

The vibe at night is good in both Charlotte and Virginia Beach.

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 Virginia Beach. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

Is Charlotte or Virginia Beach Better for Resorts?

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

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

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.


Is Charlotte or Virginia Beach Better for Beaches?

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is very good for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Virginia Beach to enjoy the beach. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Charlotte. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Charlotte or Virginia Beach Better for Families?

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

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 Virginia Beach Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

Both Charlotte and Virginia Beach are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Charlotte is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Virginia Beach is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Is Charlotte or Virginia Beach Better for Students?

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

For students, both Charlotte and Virginia Beach are good 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.

Virginia Beach is a good city to visit for students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

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

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach 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 limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.


Is Charlotte or Virginia Beach a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Virginia Beach

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Virginia Beach is generally not very walkable. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

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

Should I spend more time in Virginia Beach or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlotte than Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Virginia Beach 5-7

One day in Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

In Charlotte, you'll find museums and nightlife. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find nightlife around the coastal city of Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach?

Charlotte is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find nightlife around the bustling destination of Virginia Beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charlotte. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find nightlife around the bustling coastal city of Virginia Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Charlotte. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.

Virginia Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Virginia Beach, 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach is $126. 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 Virginia Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Virginia Beach $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Virginia Beach $142
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Virginia Beach

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte or Virginia Beach? 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 Virginia Beach


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 and Virginia Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Virginia Beach $39

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: $137
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $134
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $134
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Charlotte City to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Virginia Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Virginia Beach:


  • Beach Parking
    $10

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

Prices for flights to both Virginia Beach 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
    Virginia Beach $30
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
    Virginia Beach $21

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • 2 Hours African American History E-Bike Tour in Charlotte: $79
  • 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte: $75
  • Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour : $25
  • 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 Hornets Basketball Game Ticket at Spectrum Center: $16
  • Charlotte Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $90
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Charlotte's Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour: $48

Tours and Activities in Virginia Beach

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

  • Dolphin Kayak Tour in Virginia Beach: $75
  • Kayak Dolphin Experience in Virginia Beach: $75
  • Neptune Ghosts: Ghosts of the Coast By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour: $68
  • Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours: $68
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Virginia Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Dolphin Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour: $60
  • Kayak Dolphin Tours: $78
  • Morning Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Neptune Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Sunset Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Virginia Historic Adventure!: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Virginia Beach $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


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

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


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Virginia Beach?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Virginia Beach. When comparing the sizes of Charlotte and Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach?

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 Virginia Beach in the Summer?

Both Virginia Beach and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Charlotte is generally around the same temperature as Virginia Beach. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 81°F (27°C), and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Virginia Beach during summer. Charlotte gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Virginia Beach receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. It's quite rainy in Charlotte. In July, Charlotte usually receives less rain than Virginia Beach. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Virginia Beach 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Virginia Beach in the Autumn?

Both Virginia Beach and Charlotte during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area.

Charlotte is around the same temperature as Virginia Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

In Virginia Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charlotte. In the autumn, Charlotte often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Virginia Beach. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Virginia Beach receives 211 hours of full sun.

Charlotte usually gets less rain in October than Virginia Beach. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Virginia Beach 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Virginia Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Virginia Beach. Many visitors come to Charlotte in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the cuisine during these months.

Virginia Beach can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Charlotte is a little warmer than Virginia Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Charlotte in January average around 42°F (6°C), and Virginia Beach averages at about 39°F (4°C).

Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Virginia Beach during winter. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies, while Virginia Beach receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of rain as Virginia Beach. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Virginia Beach 39°F (4°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Virginia Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Virginia Beach. Most visitors come to Charlotte for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Charlotte is generally a little warmer than Virginia Beach. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 63°F (17°C), and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte this time of the year. In the spring, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Virginia Beach. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Virginia Beach receives 253 hours of full sun.

Charlotte usually gets more rain in April than Virginia Beach. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Virginia Beach 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Virginia Beach and Charlotte

Charlotte Virginia Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)