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

Should you visit Galveston or Nantucket?

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 Galveston and Nantucket can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a upscale, charming, and serene island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Galveston and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Galveston or Nantucket?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Galveston and Nantucket are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Galveston attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Galveston is famous for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Galveston different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Galveston or Nantucket?

Galveston
Nantucket

Galveston is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Galveston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


Is the Food Better in Galveston or Nantucket? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Nantucket has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Galveston or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Nantucket

Galveston is a great town for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Galveston has something for everybody. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Galveston or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for its luxury resorts. However, Galveston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Galveston is not a resort destination.


Is Galveston or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for the beache. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Is Galveston or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for its old town. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Galveston offers a nice historic old town area. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Is Galveston or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Nantucket?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Nantucket is well-known for its shopping. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Galveston or Nantucket Better for Families?

Galveston
Nantucket

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Galveston or Nantucket.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Galveston is very family-friendly. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Nantucket is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Galveston or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Galveston is a very popular place to visit for couples. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.


Is Galveston or Nantucket Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Nantucket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is generally limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Is Galveston or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Galveston
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable town. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

For even more information, also check out Is Galveston Worth Visiting? and Is Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Galveston or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantucket than Galveston 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 Nantucket.


  • How many days in Galveston or Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Galveston or Nantucket?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Galveston. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Galveston has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Galveston or Nantucket?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Galveston. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic town of Galveston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Galveston or Nantucket?

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Nantucket or Galveston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $183, while the average daily cost in Nantucket is $350. 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 Galveston and Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Nantucket? 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 Galveston


Hotels in Nantucket


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: Galveston Hotel Prices and Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Nantucket $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $194
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $194
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $194
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $168
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $168
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $168

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket and Galveston 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
    Galveston $52
    Nantucket $81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

For Galveston, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Nantucket $34

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • 2 Hours Private Cemeteries of Galveston Walking Tour: $181
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $25
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $25
  • Baywatch Galveston Island Bus Tours: $25
  • Dark Side and Cemeteries of Galveston – Walking Tour: $352
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $34
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour with Red Light District: $20
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $999
  • Galveston Ghosts of the Gulf Haunted Tour: $33
  • Galveston Great Storm Talk and Tour : $35
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Nantucket $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30


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

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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Nantucket?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Nantucket, 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 Galveston or Nantucket?

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 Galveston or Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In July, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 84°F (29°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In July, Galveston usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket and Galveston during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Galveston is much warmer than Nantucket in the autumn. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Nantucket fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Galveston usually gets less rain in October than Nantucket. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Nantucket. Many travelers come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nantucket in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nantucket can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Galveston is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galveston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Nantucket averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Galveston usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Nantucket. Many visitors come to Galveston in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Additionally, most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Galveston is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 70°F (21°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Galveston usually gets less rain in April than Nantucket. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Galveston

Galveston Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)