A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Virginia Beach for Resorts, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Orlando or Virginia Beach?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Virginia Beach? 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 entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and food.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a relaxing, bustling, and fun-filled coastal city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Orlando and Virginia Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Not as many resort options


Is there more to do in Orlando or Virginia Beach?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Orlando than Virginia Beach. While Virginia Beach is larger than Orlando, Orlando has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Orlando is very popular for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while Virginia Beach attracts visitors for its beaches and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also well known for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Virginia Beach is famous for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Orlando different from Virginia Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Theater?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Virginia Beach is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a theatre destination.


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

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Orlando is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Orlando has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

The vibe at night is nice in both Orlando and Virginia Beach.

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 Virginia Beach. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Orlando is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its 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.

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.


Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Beaches?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a popular place for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Virginia Beach is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Virginia Beach?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Orlando is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Orlando is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Orlando is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Orlando is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Families?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Orlando is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-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.

Virginia Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Couples?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Virginia Beach make for a nice place to visit.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Virginia Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Students?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

For students, both Orlando and Virginia Beach are nice 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.

Virginia Beach is a good city to visit for students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.


Is Orlando or Virginia Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Orlando is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Orlando or Virginia Beach a more walkable city?

Orlando
Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is adequate for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Virginia Beach is generally not a very walkable coastal city. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

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 Virginia Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Virginia Beach or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Virginia Beach?

Both Orlando and Virginia Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Virginia Beach than in Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 5-7 days is enough time in Virginia Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orlando than Virginia Beach 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 Orlando.


  • How many days in Orlando or Virginia Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Virginia Beach 5-7

One day in Orlando or Virginia Beach?

In Orlando, you'll find theater and nightlife. People often spend their time 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 Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. This coastal city 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 Virginia Beach?

Orlando is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Orlando or Virginia Beach?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything.

Virginia Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Virginia Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Virginia Beach?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the city of Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Virginia Beach. In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


Which place is cheaper, Virginia Beach or Orlando?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $321, while the average daily cost in Virginia Beach is $126. 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 Orlando and Virginia Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Virginia Beach $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Virginia Beach $142
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Virginia Beach

Looking for a hotel in Orlando or Virginia Beach? 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 Orlando


Hotels in Virginia Beach


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: Orlando Hotel Prices and Virginia Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Virginia Beach $39
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

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

  • Universal Studios Ticket with MCO Airport Transfer: $436
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to Melbourne: $297
  • Private Transfer from Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral : $286
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Melbourne : $284
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Cocoa Beach: $282
  • Private Transfer from The Villages to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $274
  • Private Transfer from Reunion to Port Canaveral: $274
  • Private Transfer from Four Corners to Port Canaveral: $274
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to The Villages: $274
  • Private Transfer from Windermere to Port Canaveral: $274
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Port Canaveral: $266
  • 14 Passengers Van private Transfer to/From Port Canaveral Cruises: $265

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Virginia Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Virginia Beach:


  • Beach Parking
    $10

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Virginia Beach?

Prices for flights to both Virginia Beach and Orlando 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
    Orlando $65
    Virginia Beach $30
Typical Food Prices in Orlando

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


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show, Orlando: $38
  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $38
  • Tastes of the World Food Tour in Winter Haven : $50
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Mango's LIVE! - Dinner & Show: $72
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Orlando Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Experience: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Teatro Martini Dinner Show in Orlando: $79
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Virginia Beach $21
Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

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

  • 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando: $77
  • Everglades Airboat Tour near Orlando Florida: $89
  • 1 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of The Famous Chain of Lakes: $27
  • 1 Hour Scenic Pontoon Day Cruise: $48
  • 1-Hour "Sky High" Zip Line Adventure Tour with 3 Zip Line Flights Included: $46
  • 16-Mile Helicopter Tour Over Kissimmee: $86
  • 2 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of the Chain of Lakes: $42
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 2-hr. Kissimmee Lakefront Tour on a DELUXE Fully Electric Trike: $59
  • 25 Minutes Adventure Rooms in Max Action Arena ICON Park: $12
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 30 Days Self Guided Audio Tour: Discover Orlando Local Stories: $30

Tours and Activities in Virginia Beach

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

  • Dolphin Kayak Tour in Virginia Beach: $75
  • Kayak Dolphin Experience in Virginia Beach: $75
  • Neptune Ghosts: Ghosts of the Coast By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour: $68
  • Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours: $68
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Virginia Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Dolphin Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour: $60
  • Kayak Dolphin Tours: $78
  • Morning Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Neptune Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Sunset Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Virginia Historic Adventure!: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Virginia Beach $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Virtual Bar Crawl & Scavenger Hunt: $12
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Sanford’s Haunted Brewery Tour: $43
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $85
  • Happy Hour Downtown Pub Crawl: $170
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Virginia Beach, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Virginia Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Virginia Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach.

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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or Virginia Beach?

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

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 Orlando or Virginia Beach in the Summer?

Both Virginia Beach and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Orlando is around the same temperature as Virginia Beach. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Virginia Beach averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Virginia Beach. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orlando 82°F (28°C) 
    Virginia Beach 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Virginia Beach in the Autumn?

Both Virginia Beach and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Virginia Beach. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Virginia Beach. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orlando 75°F (24°C) 
    Virginia Beach 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Virginia Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach because of the cuisine.

The weather in Virginia Beach can be very cold. Orlando is much warmer than Virginia Beach in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Virginia Beach. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    Virginia Beach 39°F (4°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Virginia Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Virginia Beach. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year.

In the spring, Orlando is much warmer than Virginia Beach. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and Virginia Beach averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Orlando usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Virginia Beach. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    Virginia Beach 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Virginia Beach and Orlando

Orlando Virginia Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)