A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. Charleston for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Resorts

Should you visit Miami or Charleston?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and Charleston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Miami and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Charleston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Miami than Charleston. Miami is bigger than Charleston, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Miami is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Charleston is more popular for its museums & sights, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Miami is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses.

How is Miami different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or Charleston?

Charleston is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Miami and Charleston can be difficult as they are each terrific in their own way.

Miami has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Miami has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. 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 Miami or Charleston Better for Music?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its music scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for live music.

In Miami you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

You'll find some good live music in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for the beach. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. 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.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its historic old town. However, Miami does not have a historic old town.

Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Miami does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Charleston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Charleston and Miami.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Known for shopping, Charleston draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Miami 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.

Miami does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is very good for its Christmas markets. However, Miami does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston offers some nice Christmas markets. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Miami does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for Families?

Miami is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Miami is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Charleston is a family-friendly beach city. 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 Miami or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Charleston has plenty to offer. 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.

Miami is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Miami or Charleston Better for Students?

Miami and Charleston are notable places to visit for students.

Miami is popular with students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

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

Miami is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Miami has a few public transit options. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

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 Miami or Charleston a more walkable city?

Miami and Charleston both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Miami?

How long in Miami or Charleston?

Both Miami 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 Miami. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

Couples should spend more time in Charleston than Miami. 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 Miami than Charleston 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 Miami.

One day in Miami or Charleston?

When visiting Miami, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Charleston, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Charleston?

When visiting Miami, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Charleston?

Miami, a popular beach city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston is a fun place to experience. In Charleston, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Miami or Charleston?

Miami 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.

In Charleston, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this historic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Charleston?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or Charleston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Charleston. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during summer. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charleston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Miami usually receives less rain than Charleston. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Miami or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Miami as well as Charleston. Many travelers come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Miami is a little warmer than Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the autumn, Miami often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

Miami receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Charleston. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Charleston in the Winter?

Both Charleston and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Miami in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during winter. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Miami usually receives less rain than Charleston. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Miami or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Miami during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Miami is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the spring, Miami often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Charleston. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Miami