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

Should you visit Galveston or Richmond?

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 Richmond can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Richmond

Richmond is a growing, friendly, and historical city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Galveston and Richmond: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Galveston or Richmond?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Galveston than Richmond. While Richmond is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is more touristy than Richmond and is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also home to Pleasure Pier. Richmond is popular for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Galveston different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Galveston
Richmond

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Galveston and Richmond.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Richmond can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.


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

Galveston
Richmond

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Galveston and Richmond can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Galveston or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Richmond

Galveston is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Galveston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Galveston or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Richmond

Galveston is very good for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Galveston to enjoy the beach. 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.

Richmond is not a beach destination.


Is Galveston or Richmond Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Richmond

Galveston is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Richmond does not have a historic old town.

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.

Richmond does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Richmond?

Galveston
Richmond

If you're looking to go shopping, Galveston and Richmond both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galveston. 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.

Many visitors go to Richmond to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Galveston or Richmond Better for Families?

Galveston
Richmond

Galveston is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Galveston is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly town. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Galveston or Richmond Better for Couples?

Galveston
Richmond

Galveston is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Galveston or Richmond Better for Students?

Galveston
Richmond

Richmond is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Galveston is not popular with students.

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

Galveston
Richmond

Galveston and Richmond both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.


Is Galveston or Richmond a more walkable city?

Galveston
Richmond

Galveston and Richmond are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Richmond is a somewhat walkable town. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Richmond?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Galveston or Richmond?

The town of Galveston offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in Galveston or Richmond?

Galveston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Galveston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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


Five days in Galveston or Richmond?

Galveston 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Richmond. 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.

A week in Galveston or Richmond?

Galveston is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Richmond 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Richmond 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 Richmond is $161. 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 Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Richmond? 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 Richmond


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 Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Richmond $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $168
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $168
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $193
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $193
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $193

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond 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
    Richmond $21

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Richmond $13

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour on the Galveston Strand: $6.75
  • Luggage Storage in Cruise Terminal: $8.71
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $15
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $15
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $20
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • Galveston's Secrets of the Strand Walking Tour : $23
  • Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Richmond

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

  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond: $44
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Church Hill Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour: $125
  • Guided Walking Tour of Richmond: $38
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Highlights of Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour: $30
  • Historic Trolley Tour: $38
  • Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond: $76
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • Private Sightseeing Tour by Electric Cart in Richmond: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Richmond -

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
  • Experience the Happy Hour Pub Crawl Tour in Galveston: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

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

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Richmond, 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 Richmond?

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 Galveston or Richmond in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Galveston is a little warmer than Richmond. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galveston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Richmond averages at about 78°F (26°C).

Richmond gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Galveston usually gets less rain in July than Richmond. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Richmond 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Richmond in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Richmond. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Richmond for the shopping scene.

In October, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 71°F (22°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In October, Galveston usually receives less rain than Richmond. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Richmond in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Richmond. Many travelers come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Richmond in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Richmond can get quite cold in the winter. Galveston is much warmer than Richmond in the winter. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Richmond fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

Galveston usually gets less rain in January than Richmond. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Richmond in the Spring?

Both Richmond and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Galveston in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Galveston is a little warmer than Richmond. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galveston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Richmond averages at about 58°F (14°C).

In April, Galveston usually receives less rain than Richmond. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and Galveston

Galveston Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)