A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Raleigh vs. Norfolk for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Raleigh or Norfolk?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Norfolk? 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a southern, student-friendly, and suburban-style city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Raleigh and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Norfolk?

You'll generally find more things to do in Raleigh than Norfolk. Raleigh is bigger than Norfolk, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Raleigh is better known for its big city activities, while Norfolk is more popular for its shopping. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. Also, Raleigh is famous for North Carolina State University. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Raleigh different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Raleigh or Norfolk?

Raleigh
Norfolk

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Raleigh or Norfolk.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Raleigh. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.


Is the Food Better in Raleigh or Norfolk? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Raleigh
Norfolk

Both Raleigh and Norfolk offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Raleigh area. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Norfolk. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Raleigh or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Norfolk

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Raleigh and Norfolk.

Raleigh has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Norfolk?

Raleigh
Norfolk

Norfolk is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Norfolk to go shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Raleigh or Norfolk Better for Families?

Raleigh
Norfolk

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Raleigh or Norfolk.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Raleigh. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Raleigh or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Norfolk

Most people don't think of either Raleigh or Norfolk as a couple's destination.

Raleigh is not always the best place to visit for a couple. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Norfolk is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Raleigh or Norfolk Better for Students?

Raleigh
Norfolk

Raleigh is a great destination for students. However, Norfolk is not popular with students.

Raleigh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Norfolk is not popular with students.


Is Raleigh or Norfolk Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Raleigh
Norfolk

Norfolk is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Raleigh or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Norfolk

Norfolk is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Raleigh Worth Visiting? and Is Norfolk Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Raleigh or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Raleigh than Norfolk because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Raleigh, and 1-2 days is enough time in Norfolk.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Norfolk than Raleigh 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 Norfolk.


  • How many days in Raleigh or Norfolk? Ideal Length of Stay
    Raleigh 2-3 
    Norfolk 1-2

One day in Raleigh or Norfolk?

In Raleigh, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Norfolk, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Raleigh or Norfolk?

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

In Norfolk, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Norfolk has to offer.

Five days in Raleigh or Norfolk?

Raleigh is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Norfolk is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Raleigh or Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Raleigh. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Raleigh. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Norfolk. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Norfolk. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Norfolk or Raleigh?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Raleigh is $189, while the average daily cost in Norfolk is $166. 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 Raleigh and Norfolk in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Norfolk $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Norfolk $168
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Norfolk

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh or Norfolk? 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 Raleigh


Hotels in Norfolk


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: Raleigh Hotel Prices and Norfolk Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Norfolk $54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $126
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $119
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Norfolk?

Prices for flights to both Norfolk and Raleigh 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
    Raleigh $57
    Norfolk $49
Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

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

  • Private Cooking Class in Durham with an Expert Home Cook: $104

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $112
  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $140
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Norfolk $14

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

Here are a few actual costs in Raleigh for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Durham by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Raleigh African American History Tour: $13
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC: $15
  • Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: $16
  • True Crime History Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Ghost and Urban Legend Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Downtown: Historic Walking Tours: $16
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Walking Tour: $26
  • Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour: $30
  • Raleigh Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh: $45

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $76
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $84
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $84
  • Mother's Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk: $103
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $103

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Raleigh $27
    Norfolk $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Downtown Norfolk: $30


When comparing the travel costs between Raleigh and Norfolk, we can see that Raleigh is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Norfolk?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh and Norfolk, 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 Raleigh or Norfolk?

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 Raleigh or Norfolk in the Summer?

Both Norfolk and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year.

In the summer, Raleigh is around the same temperature as Norfolk. Typically, the summer temperatures in Raleigh in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Norfolk averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk during summer. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. It's quite rainy in Raleigh. In July, Raleigh usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Norfolk in the Autumn?

Both Norfolk and Raleigh during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Norfolk for the shopping scene.

In October, Raleigh is generally around the same temperature as Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 61°F (16°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the autumn, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets less rain in October than Norfolk. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Norfolk in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Norfolk. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Norfolk in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Norfolk can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Raleigh. Raleigh is a little warmer than Norfolk in the winter. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk during winter. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Norfolk. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Norfolk in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Norfolk. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Raleigh is a little warmer than Norfolk. Typically, the spring temperatures in Raleigh in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Norfolk averages at about 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the spring, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Raleigh

Raleigh Norfolk
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)