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

Should you visit Islamorada or Richmond?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Richmond, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Islamorada and Richmond: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Richmond?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Richmond, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Richmond is more popular for its museums. Islamorada is more touristy than Richmond and is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Islamorada different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Richmond?

Islamorada
Richmond

Richmond is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its sights and museums.

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.

Islamorada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.


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

Islamorada
Richmond

Islamorada is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Islamorada is an experience not to be missed. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. 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 Islamorada or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Richmond

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Islamorada and Richmond.

If you're looking for night time activities Islamorada has a few options to choose from. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Islamorada or Richmond Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Richmond

Islamorada is very good for its resorts. However, Richmond is not a resort destination.

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Richmond Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Richmond

Islamorada is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Richmond is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Islamorada. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Richmond is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Richmond

Islamorada is notable for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

Islamorada is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Richmond?

Islamorada
Richmond

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Richmond offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.


Is Islamorada or Richmond Better for Families?

Islamorada
Richmond

Islamorada is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Islamorada is one of the most popular family destinations. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

Richmond is a family-friendly village. 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 Islamorada or Richmond Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Richmond

Islamorada is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Islamorada has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

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 Islamorada or Richmond Better for Students?

Islamorada
Richmond

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Islamorada 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.

Islamorada is not popular with students.


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

Islamorada
Richmond

Richmond is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Is Islamorada or Richmond a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Richmond

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Islamorada or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Islamorada than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Islamorada or Richmond? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Richmond 1-2

One day in Islamorada or Richmond?

The beautiful village of Islamorada offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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


A weekend in Islamorada or Richmond?

Islamorada is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Richmond, 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 Islamorada or Richmond?

Islamorada is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Islamorada, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Richmond, 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 Islamorada or Richmond?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Islamorada has to offer. This village offers something for everyone.

Richmond 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Richmond or Islamorada?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $145, 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 Islamorada and Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada 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 Islamorada


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: Islamorada Hotel Prices and Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Richmond $72

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: $39
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $47
    Richmond $21

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
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Richmond $13

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • Snorkeling Experience : $80
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure on Pontoon : $80
  • Day Tour Glass Bottom Boat In Islamorada: $80
  • Night Tour Glass Bottom Boat in Islamorada: $80
  • Islamorada Florida Keys Sunset Sightseeing Cruise Music : $86
  • Snorkeling Adventure in Islamorada : $90
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure from Cheeca Spa: $90
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure: $90
  • Guided Tour with Local Highlights: $95
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip: $130
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip from Cheeca Spa: $140
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $150

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
  • 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
  • RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour of Richmond: $187
  • Richmond Downtown Walking Tour: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Richmond -

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 Islamorada and Richmond, we can see that Richmond 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 Islamorada Expensive? and Is Richmond Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Richmond in the Summer?

Both Richmond and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Richmond because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the summer, Islamorada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun.

Richmond gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Richmond. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Islamorada or Richmond in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Richmond. The autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Richmond this time of year.

Islamorada is much warmer than Richmond in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Richmond during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Islamorada gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Richmond. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Richmond in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Richmond. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Richmond for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Richmond. In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Richmond averages at about 36°F (2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the winter, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Richmond. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Richmond. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Richmond in the Spring?

Both Richmond and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Richmond. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Richmond during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Richmond. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and Islamorada

Islamorada Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)