A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Charleston for Food, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Orlando or Charleston?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Charleston? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Charleston

Charleston is a historic, classic, and picturesque 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Orlando and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Charleston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Charleston than Orlando. While Orlando is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is better known for its museums, food, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Charleston and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park.

How is Orlando different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charleston is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Charleston Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Charleston is not a theatre destination.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Charleston is not a theatre destination.

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

Charleston is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Orlando or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Orlando and Charleston.

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Orlando or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an amazing 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.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

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 Orlando or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston is great for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Charleston is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is renowned for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Charleston?

Charleston is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Charleston. 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.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Orlando or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences.

Orlando is a fantastic destination at Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Since it has plenty to do, Charleston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Is Orlando or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Orlando or Charleston Better for Families?

Orlando is an amazing city to visit 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.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Charleston is a family-friendly 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 Orlando or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is renowned for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Charleston Better for Students?

For students, both Orlando and Charleston are notable places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Charleston is a good city to visit for students. 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 Orlando or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orlando and Charleston both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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

Is Orlando or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Charleston?

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

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

One day in Orlando or Charleston?

With theater and nightlife around the family-friendly city of Orlando, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Charleston, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Orlando, there's plenty to do. 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.

In Charleston, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Charleston?

Orlando, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Charleston?

Orlando 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. In Charleston, you'll find live music and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Charleston, we can see that Orlando 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando 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 Orlando Expensive? and Is Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Charleston?

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

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 Orlando or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Orlando during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Charleston. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Charleston. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Orlando is a little warmer than Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Charleston. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Charleston. Most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Orlando is much warmer than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In April, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Orlando