A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Charlotte for Attractions, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit La Paz or Charlotte?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Charlotte can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a growing, evolving, and up-and-coming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

La Paz and Charlotte: 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
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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 La Paz or Charlotte?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in La Paz than Charlotte. While Charlotte is larger than La Paz, La Paz has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Paz is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Charlotte is known for its big city activities. La Paz is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Charlotte is popular for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is La Paz different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Charlotte?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is great for its historical sights. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to La Paz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Charlotte? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

La Paz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Charlotte

Evening events are good in both La Paz and Charlotte.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.


Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is terrific for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, La Paz is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Charlotte?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is great for its shopping areas. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Charlotte is a great destination for shopping. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.


Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Families?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Couples?

La Paz
Charlotte

Both La Paz and Charlotte are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

La Paz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Charlotte is a good city for couples to visit. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.


Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Students?

La Paz
Charlotte

Charlotte is a city with good options for students. However, La Paz is not popular with students.

Charlotte is a good city to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

La Paz is not popular with students.

Is La Paz or Charlotte Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz
Charlotte

Both La Paz and Charlotte offer good public transit options.

La Paz has a few public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Charlotte has some public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Is La Paz or Charlotte a more walkable city?

La Paz
Charlotte

La Paz is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.


For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Charlotte Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Charlotte?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Paz and Charlotte. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Paz than in Charlotte. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Charlotte.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Charlotte 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Charlotte? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Charlotte 1-3

One day in La Paz or Charlotte?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of La Paz. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Charlotte. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in La Paz or Charlotte?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the authentic destination of La Paz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Charlotte is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Charlotte?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the authentic city of La Paz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charlotte. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in La Paz or Charlotte?

La Paz is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the evolving destination of Charlotte. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Charlotte or La Paz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $118, while the average daily cost in Charlotte is $191. 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 La Paz and Charlotte in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Charlotte $118
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Charlotte $236
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Charlotte

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Charlotte? 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 La Paz


Hotels in Charlotte


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Charlotte $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz Airport: Private Roundtrip Transfer to La Ventan: $259
  • Private Transfer from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas: $241
  • La Paz Int. Airport (LAP): Private Transfer to La Paz hotels: $174
  • La Paz Airport to Costa Baja Private Roundtrip Transfer: $89
  • Roundtrip Transfer to La Paz International Airport: $73
  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $133
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $133
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $136
  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Charlotte?

Prices for flights to both Charlotte and La Paz 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
    La Paz $38
    Charlotte $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

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

  • 4 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $82

Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $13
    Charlotte $43

Tours and Activities in La Paz

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

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $133
  • Balandra & San Rafaelito: Sightseeing & Snorkelling: $135
  • Balandra Beach and City Tour: $128
  • Balandra Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $135
  • Can-Am X3 Turbo Adventure: Cabo Desert Trails & Beach Ride: $291
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $91
  • Cruise Date Delight! Swim with Sea Lions! Apr-02: $186
  • Espíritu Santo Island snorkel and sightseeing tour on Small Group: $169
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $139

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Charlotte by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Self-Guided City Highlights Audio Tour: $12
  • Uptown A Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Heart of Queen City: $12
  • Uptown Funk: 1 Hour Guided Walking Tour of Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN FUNK: 1 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN AT SUNDOWN: 1 Hour Guided Arts Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Charlotte by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sea Life Charlotte Concord Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Charlottesville: Ghosts of Court Square Walking Tour: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $12
    Charlotte $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


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

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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Charlotte?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of La Paz. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Charlotte, 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 La Paz or Charlotte?

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 La Paz or Charlotte in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Charlotte. Many visitors come to La Paz in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Charlotte for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, La Paz is around the same temperature as Charlotte. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Charlotte averages at about 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the summer, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Charlotte. La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Charlotte. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Charlotte in the Autumn?

Both Charlotte and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Charlotte. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Charlotte. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Charlotte in the Winter?

Both Charlotte and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to La Paz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year.

La Paz is much warmer than Charlotte in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Charlotte fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Charlotte. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Charlotte in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Charlotte. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charlotte for the activities around the city.

In the spring, La Paz is a little warmer than Charlotte. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Charlotte averages at about 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Charlotte. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Charlotte and La Paz

La Paz Charlotte
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)