A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Charlottesville for Couples, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Charlottesville. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a high energy, scenic, and bustling coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a collegiate, southern, and proud university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Fort Lauderdale and Charlottesville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Charlottesville are popular destinations, Fort Lauderdale has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Charlottesville attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Charlottesville and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also well known for The Local Beaches. Charlottesville is famous for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Charlottesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

Charlottesville is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Charlottesville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. A highlight of a trip to the area is a visit to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The city is also famously home to the beautiful University of Virginia, which has a manicured and beautiful campus. History buffs will also appreciate visiting the Civil War Sites that are nearby as well.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Charlottesville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Fort Lauderdale has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Charlottesville may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Head to the Historic Downtown Mall to enjoy an outdoor meal at a top rated restaurant. There are also restaurants that cater specifically to students and offer affordable and quick meals.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for nightlife and partying. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has something for everybody. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlottesville. Charlottesville is a university town with an active nightlife. The best areas for nightlife are found around the Downtown Mall, Belmont neighborhood, the Corner, and University Ave west near the mall. Even though there are a number of activities to enjoy at night, this is still a small town and the nightlife scene reflects that.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Charlottesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Charlottesville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for the beache. However, Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for its Old Town?

Charlottesville is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Charlottesville to see the historical old town. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Hiking?

Charlottesville is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Charlottesville offers some nice hiking trails. Just outside of town there are plenty of hiking opportunities including in and around Shenandoah National Park. Hiking is at its best during the fall season when the leaves are changing.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Christmas?

Charlottesville is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Fort Lauderdale does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Charlottesville. From Christmas lights on campus to a festive atmosphere at the Monticello, the town is beautiful for Christmas.

Fort Lauderdale does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Charlottesville is a family-friendly place to visit. Wandering the campus of UVA, picking fruit at Carter Mountain Orchard or exploring the downtown mall, including the Virginia Discovery Museum are all activities that everyone can enjoy. There are also great hiking trails just outside of town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for couples.

Fort Lauderdale is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Charlottesville is a good coastal city for couples to visit. The UVA campus is beautiful to explore, as is Monticello. The Downtown Mall has many great restaurants and activities that make for a nice date night and during the day, there's also beautiful hikes nearby that are at their peak during the fall season.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Students?

Charlottesville is a must-visit destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Charlottesville is a very popular place to visit for students. The town is home to the beautiful University of Virginia and it's a popular destination for international students as well as local students. Much of the town is focused around student life, and the city's proximity to Washington, DC means it has access to global opportunities.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Charlottesville.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charlottesville. There is a bus system that runs between campus, downtown, and several neighborhoods in Charlottesville.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its high level of walkability. However, Charlottesville is not known for its ease of walking around.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable coastal city. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Charlottesville is generally not very walkable. While the University of Virginia campus and the Downtown Mall are both very walkable, most of the town is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Charlottesville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlottesville or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fort Lauderdale and Charlottesville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than in Charlottesville. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-3 days is enough time in Charlottesville.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlottesville than Fort Lauderdale 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 Charlottesville.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

The high energy destination of Fort Lauderdale offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Charlottesville is a small town with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

The coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Charlottesville might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Charlottesville is a great place to explore. This university town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

The spirited coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers shopping and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Since Charlottesville is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Charlottesville. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Charlottesville, 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 Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville?

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 Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville in the Summer?

Both Charlottesville and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year.

In the summer, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Charlottesville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in July average around 83°F (28°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 78°F (26°C).

In Charlottesville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 305 hours of full sun.

Charlottesville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Charlottesville. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Charlottesville. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charlottesville for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 78°F (26°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlottesville this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Charlottesville during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Charlottesville. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Charlottesville. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Charlottesville in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine.

Charlottesville can get quite cold in the winter. Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Charlottesville in the winter. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 67°F (20°C) in January, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Charlottesville. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 169 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than Charlottesville. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlottesville in the Spring?

Both Charlottesville and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Charlottesville for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Charlottesville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in April average around 75°F (24°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlottesville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Charlottesville during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 265 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charlottesville. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charlottesville and Fort Lauderdale