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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

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 Greenville. 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 bustling, spirited, and luxury coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Greenville

Greenville is a southern, welcoming, and hospitable city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Fort Lauderdale and Greenville: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

You'll generally find more things to do in Fort Lauderdale than Greenville. Fort Lauderdale is bigger than Greenville, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Greenville is more popular for its museums. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Greenville and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Greenville is well known for its outdoor spaces and its growing arts scene.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Greenville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

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

Greenville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums focus on art, history, and science. Notable museums in town include the Greenville County Museum of Art, the Upcountry History Museum, and the Sigal Music Museum.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

Fort Lauderdale is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Greenville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Fort Lauderdale is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Greenville offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The food scene is growing and the farm-to-table movement is apparent here, but the city is still often overlooked by foodies in the area.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Greenville Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its evening party scene. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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 Greenville. Bars, breweries, and low key clubs are what drive the city's nightlife scene. There are both piano bars and live music venues that often lean towards the local country classics.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Greenville Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Greenville is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Fort Lauderdale is a perfect choice. 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.

Greenville is not a resort destination.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

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

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Greenville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Greenville Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Greenville is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Fort Lauderdale is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Greenville is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

Shopping is a popular activity in both Greenville and Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Greenville. You'll find upscale shopping in the city's downtown and sprawling shopping malls in other neighborhoods. There are plenty of name brand stores where you can pick up the latest style.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Greenville Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Greenville 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 Fort Lauderdale. 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.

Greenville is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many local families in town, so you'll find all kinds of kid-friendly activities to enjoy. Paris Mountain State Park is a popular place where everyone can run around. Falls Park on the Reedy River also has walking trails and is in the city's historic district. There's also a children's theater and plenty of playgrounds around town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Greenville Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for couples. However, Greenville is not known for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer. 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.

Greenville is not the best destination for a couple to visit. You can take the free trolley down Main Street and then enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

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

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

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

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 Greenville. There are free trolleys that make their way around the downtown neighborhoods.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Greenville a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Greenville

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

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

Greenville is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is surprisingly walkable, but like most cities in the area, you need a car to make the most of your visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Greenville or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fort Lauderdale than Greenville because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 1-2 days is enough time in Greenville.

Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Greenville. 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 Greenville. 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 Greenville 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 Greenville.


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Greenville 1-2

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

With shopping and nightlife around the bustling coastal city of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The southern destination of Greenville offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Greenville offers museums and nightlife. 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 Greenville?

Fort Lauderdale, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Greenville. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Greenville or Fort Lauderdale?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $182, while the average daily cost in Greenville is $0.00. 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 Fort Lauderdale and Greenville in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Greenville -
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Greenville $0.00
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Greenville

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Greenville? 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 Fort Lauderdale


Hotels in Greenville


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: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Greenville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Greenville $158

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Key Largo: $262
  • Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer: $259
  • Private transfer from Port of Miami to Fort Lauderdale: $220
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) to Key Largo/ Marathon -Roundtrip Private Transfer: $218
  • Transfer to Miami: $200
  • Fort Myers Transfer To Fort Lauderdale Airport (UP TO 14 PASSENG): $192
  • Marco island Transfer to Fort Lauderdale Airport (UP TO 14PASS): $162
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport Private Transfer to Port Everglades: $160
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton: $140
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Coral Gables: $133
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Coral Gables: $131
  • Private Transfer from FLL to Port Everglades / Fort Lauderdale: $130

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Greenville

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

  • Greenville to Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) to Greenville - Arrival Private Transfer: $37
  • Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) to Greenville - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

Prices for flights to both Greenville and Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $49
    Greenville $21
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Food Tour in Lauderdale By The Sea: $60
  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $99
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114

Typical Food Prices in Greenville

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


  • Marble Slab Creamery (for 2)
    $9.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Greenville $25

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale (arrive 30 minutes early): $25
  • 2 Hour Intimate Cruise for 2ppl w/ Catering - Pompano Beach: $270
  • 2 Hours Electric Bike Experience on Ft Lauderdale: $40
  • 4 Hour Waterway and Sandbar Cruise: $803
  • 90 min Guided Electric Bike Tours of Greater Fort Lauderdale: $99
  • 90-Minute Parasailing Adventure Above Fort Lauderdale, FL: $80
  • 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour in Fort Lauderdale: $161
  • Air Boat Tour of Palm Beach in The Swamp Monster: $150
  • Atlantic Ocean Snorkeling Experience: $79
  • BOGO Snorkeling Mastered in One Session + Lessons + Tour + Pics: $99
  • Bahamas Day Cruise to Bimni: $299
  • Carrie B Cruises! Beautiful and Fun THE VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!!!: $32

Tours and Activities in Greenville

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

  • Greenville Scavenger Hunt: Greenville Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Greenville, SC: $15
  • Paranormal Walking Tour in Greenville : $32
  • Small-Group Walking Tour in Greenville with Breakfast: $72
  • Just Desserts Tour In Greenville: $72
  • Greenville City Segway Tour: $75
  • Greenville Haunted Segway Tour: $76
  • Thirsty Thursdays Tour (cocktails and appetizers): $89
  • Greenville Craft Cocktail Tour: $95
  • Guided E-Bike Tour in Greenville South Carolina with Brunch: $105
  • Pedego Electric Bike Tour at Greenville: $105
  • Caesars Head & Wildcat Falls Driving Tour: $129

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Greenville -
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Guided Happy Hour Bar Crawl by Beer Bike: $64
  • Pedibus Pub Crawl in Fort Lauderdale: $74
  • Party Bike Bar Crawl: $74

Sample the Local Flavors in Greenville

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

  • Spooky & Haunted Paranormal Bar Crawl Downtown Greenville: $32


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Greenville, we can see that Fort Lauderdale is more expensive. And not only is Greenville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Greenville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Greenville 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 Greenville.

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 Greenville Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Greenville?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Greenville. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Greenville, 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.