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

Should you visit Greensboro or Berkeley?

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 Greensboro and Berkeley. 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.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a welcoming, under-rated, and friendly city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Greensboro and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Berkeley?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Berkeley than Greensboro. While Greensboro is larger than Berkeley, Berkeley has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Berkeley is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. It is also home to University of California Botanical Garden. Greensboro is popular for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Berkeley. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Greensboro. The Greensboro Science Center is a highlight for families. Other interesting museums around town include the Elsewhere Modern Art Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, the International Civil Rights Center, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.


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

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Berkeley. 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.

Greensboro may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a good selection of restaurants around town with Mexican, southern, Italian, and Chinese all being popular options.

Is Greensboro or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Berkeley is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Greensboro has a few options to choose from. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Berkeley?

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Berkeley is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Greensboro has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local boutiques.


Is Greensboro or Berkeley Better for Families?

Greensboro
Berkeley

Both Greensboro and Berkeley are good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Greensboro. Kids will love visiting the Greensboro Science Center, which has hands-on science exhibits and a small zoo. Younger kids will also enjoy a visit to the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum. During the summer months the Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park is a great way to spend a day. Other times of the year, there are indoor play spaces and movie theaters around town.

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 Greensboro or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

Berkeley makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Greensboro is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The Carolina Theater makes a great date night activity. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants around town and a few parks for a daytime outing.

Is Greensboro or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for backpackers. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berkeley is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Greensboro is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of budget hotels nearby but no real hostels.


Is Greensboro or Berkeley Better for Students?

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for students. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Berkeley. 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.

It's common for students to visit Greensboro. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

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

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Berkeley has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is mostly limited in Greensboro. There are several bus routes around town, but you really can depend on them to get where you're going. A car is important for making the most of your trip.

Is Greensboro or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Greensboro is generally not a very walkable city. Most areas aren't walkable, but for the most pedestrian-friendly sections head to College Hill, downtown, or Brice Street.


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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Greensboro and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Berkeley than in Greensboro. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Greensboro, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

Families should spend more time in Berkeley than Greensboro. 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 Greensboro. 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 Greensboro 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 Greensboro or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Greensboro 1-2 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Greensboro or Berkeley?

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

With museums and nightlife around the progressive city of Berkeley, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Greensboro or Berkeley?

Greensboro 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Greensboro, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Berkeley, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Greensboro or Berkeley?

Greensboro 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.

Berkeley, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Greensboro or Berkeley?

Greensboro 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 city offers something for everyone.

Berkeley is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Greensboro?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Greensboro is $162, 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 Greensboro and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greensboro $96
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greensboro $192
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Greensboro and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro 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 Greensboro


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: Greensboro Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greensboro $24
    Berkeley $30

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: $44
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Greensboro 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
    Greensboro $48
    Berkeley $36

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.
    Greensboro $26
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Greensboro

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

  • True Crime Tour: $16
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $16
  • African American History Walking Tour: $16

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
  • 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
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $27
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $65
  • Scenic Sausalito Kayak Tour: Beginners Welcome : $85
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greensboro $20
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Greensboro and Berkeley, we can see that Berkeley is more expensive. And not only is Greensboro much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Greensboro would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Greensboro 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 Berkeley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Berkeley than you might in Greensboro.

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


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Berkeley?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro 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 Greensboro 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 Greensboro or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Greensboro and Berkeley. Many visitors come to Greensboro in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Greensboro is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Greensboro in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Greensboro gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Greensboro usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Greensboro or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Greensboro as well as Berkeley. Most visitors come to Greensboro for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Greensboro is generally around the same temperature as Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 62°F (17°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Greensboro usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Greensboro 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
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Greensboro are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Greensboro because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

The weather in Greensboro can be very cold. Greensboro is much colder than Berkeley in the winter. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Greensboro usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Greensboro during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Berkeley for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Greensboro is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Greensboro in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Berkeley averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Greensboro usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Greensboro

Greensboro Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)