A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chattanooga vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chattanooga or Berkeley?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Berkeley? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chattanooga and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Berkeley than Chattanooga. While Chattanooga is larger than Berkeley, Berkeley has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Berkeley is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga attracts visitors for its hiking. Berkeley is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. It is also well known for University of California Botanical Garden. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.


Is the Food Better in Chattanooga or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Berkeley is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Chattanooga or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Berkeley know how to have a good time. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Is Chattanooga or Berkeley Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Chattanooga is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Chattanooga is a popular spot for hiking. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Chattanooga or Berkeley Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Chattanooga or Berkeley.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Chattanooga. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Berkeley offers lots of family activities. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Chattanooga or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

With fun activities for couples, both Chattanooga and Berkeley make for a nice place to visit.

Chattanooga is a good city for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.


Is Chattanooga or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berkeley is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

Is Chattanooga or Berkeley Better for Students?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for students. However, Chattanooga is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Chattanooga is not popular with students.

Is Chattanooga or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Berkeley is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Berkeley can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.


Is Chattanooga or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Berkeley

Berkeley is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Chattanooga is very walkable. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chattanooga and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Chattanooga. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Chattanooga 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Chattanooga or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Chattanooga or Berkeley?

The city of Chattanooga offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the progressive city of Berkeley. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Chattanooga 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chattanooga, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse destination of Berkeley. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Chattanooga 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.

The progressive city of Berkeley offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Berkeley. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Chattanooga?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $182, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 Chattanooga and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Berkeley? 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 Chattanooga


Hotels in Berkeley


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Berkeley $30
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $43
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $126
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $59
    Berkeley $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chattanooga.

  • MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour: $65
  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chattanooga $52
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

Here are a few actual costs in Chattanooga for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga: $14
  • Scenic City Ghosts, Voodoo, Murder Mystery Tour: $21
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $23
  • Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour: $23
  • ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga: $23
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over: $25
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $25
  • Ghosts of Scenic City: Chattanooga Ghosts, Murder & Mystery Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $16
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chattanooga $24
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Berkeley?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Berkeley, 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 Chattanooga or Berkeley?

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 Chattanooga or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Berkeley. Many travelers come to Chattanooga for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Berkeley in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Berkeley in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Berkeley. Many visitors come to Chattanooga in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Chattanooga usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chattanooga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chattanooga can be very cold during winter. In January, Chattanooga is generally much colder than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In January, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Chattanooga during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Berkeley in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)