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

Should you visit Greensboro or Charleston?

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 Charleston. 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a classic, picturesque, and charming coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Greensboro and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Charleston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Charleston than Greensboro. While Greensboro is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Charleston is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also home to The Waterfront Park. Greensboro is popular for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Greensboro
Charleston

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Greensboro and Charleston.

Greensboro offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.


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

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Charleston, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

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 Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Charleston

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Greensboro and Charleston.

Greensboro has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

If you're looking for night time activities Charleston has a few options to choose from. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Greensboro or Charleston Better for Music?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Greensboro is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Greensboro is not a live music destination.


Is Greensboro or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is a good destination for its resorts. However, Greensboro is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Charleston makes a nice vacation spot. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Greensboro is not a resort destination.

Is Greensboro or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is well known for the beache. However, Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Charleston for it's beautiful beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Is Greensboro or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Greensboro does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Charleston can be explored in its historical center. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Greensboro does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Charleston?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Charleston make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

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 Charleston Better for Christmas?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Greensboro does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Charleston. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Greensboro does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Greensboro or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is a good destination for its Christmas markets. However, Greensboro does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Greensboro does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Greensboro or Charleston Better for Families?

Greensboro
Charleston

Both Greensboro and Charleston 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.

Charleston offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Greensboro or Charleston Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

Charleston is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

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 Charleston Better for Students?

Greensboro
Charleston

Greensboro and Charleston are good places to visit for students.

Greensboro is popular with students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

It's common for students to visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.


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

Greensboro
Charleston

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Greensboro and Charleston.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Greensboro or Charleston a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Charleston

Charleston is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Charleston is a very walkable coastal town. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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 Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Charleston?

Both Greensboro and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Greensboro. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Greensboro, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston 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 Charleston.


  • How many days in Greensboro or Charleston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Greensboro 1-2 
    Charleston 2-7

One day in Greensboro or Charleston?

With museums and nightlife around the friendly city of Greensboro, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Greensboro, one day is sufficent for most.

With live music and food around the picturesque coastal town of Charleston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Greensboro or Charleston?

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Greensboro, 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Charleston, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Greensboro or Charleston?

Greensboro, 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.

Charleston, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Greensboro or Charleston?

Greensboro 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Charleston 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 Charleston is $170. 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 Charleston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greensboro $96
    Charleston $90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greensboro $192
    Charleston $180
Compare Hotels in Greensboro and Charleston

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro or Charleston? 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 Charleston


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 Charleston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greensboro $24
    Charleston $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charleston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Charleston:

  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston city – Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Folly Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Folly Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $208
  • Charleston Airport to Isle of Palms/Sullivans Island -Roundtrip Private Transfer: $208
  • Charleston Airport to Isle of Palms/Sullivans Island– Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Charleston Airport: One-Way Transfer to Charleston: $153
  • Charleston city to Charleston Airport (CHS) - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Folly Beach to Charleston Airport (CHS) - Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • From Boone Hall Plantation Entry with Transfers: $71
  • Isle of Palms/Sullivans Island to Charleston Airport –Departure Private Transfer: $104
  • Private Transfer from Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston Port: $59
  • Private Transfer from Charleston City to Charleston Cruise Port: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Charleston?

Prices for flights to both Charleston 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
    Charleston $58

Typical Food Prices in Charleston

Some typical examples of dining costs in Charleston are as follows:


  • Lunch in downtown Charleston for two
    $21
  • Breakfast
    $26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Charleston

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

  • Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise: $72
  • Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $88
  • Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise: $93
  • Savor the Flavors Upper King Street Food Tour: $95
  • Charleston Food Tour: $99
  • Historic Downtown Food Tour with Tastings: $99
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $107
  • Charleston Farm-to-Table Food Tour and Chef's Challenge: $109
  • Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $110
  • Downtown Charleston Food Tour: $110
  • Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour: $110
  • Charleston's Savor the Flavors of Upper King Street Walking Food Tour: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greensboro $26
    Charleston $22

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Charleston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Charleston are as follows:


  • Patriots Point (for 2)
    $60

Tours and Activities in Charleston

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

  • The French Quarter: GPS Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided "The French Quarter Charleston" Solo Walking Tour: $7.50
  • Cinematic, Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Charleston: $10
  • Self-Guided Highlights Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • 300 Years of War and Peacetime in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio History Walking Tour: $12
  • Charleston Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Trolley Tour in Wadmalaw Island of South Carolina: $17
  • Evening History Tour: $20
  • Charleston's Miracle Mile: Church and Cemetery Walking Tour: $21
  • History & Storytelling Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greensboro $20
    Charleston $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Charleston

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

  • Women and Wine Tour: $18
  • Charleston Women and Wine Tour: $20
  • Guided Pub Crawl and Haunted History Tour: $30
  • Bay Street Bastards Pub Crawl Shared Tour in Charleston : $35
  • Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl: $35
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Historic District Haunted Pub Crawl Tour: $40
  • Charleston Brewery District Cruise (Public Tour): $95
  • Wadmalaw Island Wine Tasting and Tea Garden Trip: $135
  • Half Day Party Bus Brewery Tour of Charleston: $140


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


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Charleston?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro and Charleston, 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 Charleston?

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 Charleston in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Greensboro is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Greensboro in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Charleston averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during summer. Greensboro gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charleston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Greensboro gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Greensboro usually receives less rain than Charleston. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C) 
    Charleston 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Charleston in the Autumn?

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

In October, Greensboro is generally cooler than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 62°F (17°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Greensboro this time of the year. In the autumn, Greensboro often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Greensboro gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

Greensboro usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Charleston. Greensboro gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Charleston 67°F (19°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Charleston in the Winter?

Both Charleston 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 Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

The weather in Greensboro can be very cold. Greensboro is much colder than Charleston in the winter. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

Greensboro usually receives less sunshine than Charleston during winter. Greensboro gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Charleston 47°F (9°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Charleston in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Greensboro is cooler than Charleston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Greensboro in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Charleston averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Greensboro. In the spring, Greensboro often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Greensboro gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Greensboro usually gets more rain in April than Charleston. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Charleston 64°F (18°C)

Typical Weather for Charleston and Greensboro

Greensboro Charleston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 58°F (14°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 51°F (10°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)