A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Charleston for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Panama City or Charleston?

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

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

Panama City

Panama City is a cosmopolitan, fun-filled, and active beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Charleston

Charleston is a classic, picturesque, and charming coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Panama City and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Charleston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Charleston. Although Panama City and Charleston are both popular with visitors, Charleston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Charleston is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Panama City is known for its nightlife. Panama City is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Charleston is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also home to The Waterfront Park.

How is Panama City different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or Charleston?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Charleston offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Is Panama City or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Panama City is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Panama City has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

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 Panama City or Charleston Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Panama City or Charleston.

The music scene helps keep Panama City active and fun. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

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 Panama City or Charleston Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, good resorts can be found in both Panama City and Charleston.

With a selection of resorts, Panama City makes a nice vacation spot. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Charleston has a few great resort options. 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 Panama City or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Both Panama City and Charleston have superb beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Panama City. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

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 Panama City or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its old town. However, Panama City 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.

Panama City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or Charleston?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Charleston make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Panama City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Is Panama City or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Panama City 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.

Panama City does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Panama City or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Panama City does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Panama City does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Panama City or Charleston Better for Families?

Panama City is an amazing beach town 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.

Panama City is an amazing family-friendly beach town to visit. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Charleston is a family-friendly beach town. 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 Panama City or Charleston Better for Couples?

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

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Panama City is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Is Panama City or Charleston Better for Students?

Panama City is notable for students. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Panama City is a great beach town to visit as a student. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Plenty of students 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 Panama City or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and Charleston.

Public transit is generally limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

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 Panama City or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

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

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Charleston?

Both Panama City and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Charleston than Panama City. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

Couples should spend more time in Charleston than Panama City. 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 Panama City 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 Panama City or Charleston?

With shopping and nightlife around the cosmopolitan beach town of Panama City, there's plenty to do. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the classic coastal town of Charleston. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Panama City or Charleston?

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Panama City, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the classic destination of Charleston. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Panama City or Charleston?

Panama City, a popular beach town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the picturesque coastal town of Charleston. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or Charleston?

Panama City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the quaint destination of Charleston. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City 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 Panama City 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 Panama City or Charleston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Charleston. The summer months attract visitors to Panama City because of the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In the summer, Panama City is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Charleston averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during summer. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charleston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Panama City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Panama City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Panama City or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Charleston. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Panama City this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Panama City this time of the year. In the autumn, Panama City often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets more rain in October than Charleston. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Charleston in the Winter?

Both Charleston and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Panama City for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Panama City is a little warmer than Charleston in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during winter. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Panama City usually receives more rain than Charleston. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Panama City or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Panama City during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Panama City in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Panama City is a little warmer than Charleston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Charleston averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the spring, Panama City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Charleston and Panama City