A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Richmond vs. Cape Cod for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Richmond or Cape Cod?

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 Richmond and Cape Cod can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a friendly, historical, and growing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Richmond and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Richmond or Cape Cod?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Cod. Although Richmond and Cape Cod are popular destinations, Cape Cod has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Cod is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Richmond attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Cape Cod is more touristy than Richmond and is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. It is also well known for The Cape Cod National Seashore. Richmond is famous for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Richmond different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Richmond or Cape Cod?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Richmond is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Richmond. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Richmond or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Cape Cod is an experience not to be missed. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Richmond or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Richmond is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Richmond has a few options to choose from. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Richmond or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for its resorts. However, Richmond is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is Richmond or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is notable for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is Richmond or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Cape Cod?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.


Is Richmond or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cape Cod is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Richmond or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Richmond or Cape Cod Better for Students?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Richmond is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.


Is Richmond or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Both Richmond and Cape Cod offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Richmond or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Richmond
Cape Cod

Richmond and Cape Cod both are nice when exploring on foot.

Richmond is a somewhat walkable city. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

For even more information, also check out Is Richmond Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Cape Cod?

Both Richmond and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Richmond. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Richmond, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Richmond than Cape Cod 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 Richmond.


  • How many days in Richmond or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Richmond or Cape Cod?

The city of Richmond offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Richmond or Cape Cod?

Richmond is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Richmond, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cape Cod is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Richmond or Cape Cod?

Richmond is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Richmond or Cape Cod?

Richmond is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. This beach destination offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cape Cod or Richmond?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $161, while the average daily cost in Cape Cod is $183. 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 Richmond and Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Richmond or Cape Cod? 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 Richmond


Hotels in Cape Cod


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: Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Cape Cod $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod and Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
    Cape Cod $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Richmond $13
    Cape Cod $27

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond: $44
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Church Hill Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour: $125
  • Guided Walking Tour of Richmond: $38
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Historic Trolley Tour: $38
  • Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond: $76
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour of Richmond: $187
  • Richmond Downtown Walking Tour: $38

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Yoga and National Seashore with guided Hike Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Cape Cod $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


When comparing the travel costs between Richmond and Cape Cod, we can see that Cape Cod 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 Richmond Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Richmond or Cape Cod?

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 Richmond or Cape Cod in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Richmond as well as Cape Cod. Many visitors come to Richmond in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Richmond is a little warmer than Cape Cod in the summer. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In the summer, Richmond often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Richmond gets 305 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

Richmond receives a lot of rain in the summer. Richmond usually gets more rain in July than Cape Cod. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Richmond for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Richmond is a little warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Richmond in October average around 59°F (15°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during autumn. Richmond gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In October, Richmond usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Cape Cod in the Winter?

Both Cape Cod and Richmond during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Richmond because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. The weather in Richmond can be very cold. In January, Richmond is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 36°F (2°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Richmond gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Richmond usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Richmond 36°F (2°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and Cape Cod. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Richmond is much warmer than Cape Cod in the spring. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during spring. Richmond gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Richmond usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Richmond 58°F (14°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Richmond

Richmond Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)