A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Richmond vs. The Hamptons for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Richmond or The Hamptons?

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 The Hamptons can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a lavish, wealthy, and opulent beach destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Richmond and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Richmond or The Hamptons?

Visitors will usually find more to do in The Hamptons than Richmond, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. The Hamptons is better known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Richmond is more popular for its museums. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities. Also, The Hamptons is famous for The Montauk Lighthouse.

How is Richmond different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons?

Richmond
The Hamptons

Richmond is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Richmond or The Hamptons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Richmond
The Hamptons

Foodies will find both Richmond and The Hamptons both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around The Hamptons. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

Is Richmond or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
The Hamptons

Evening events are notable in both Richmond and The Hamptons.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Richmond. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in The Hamptons. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Is Richmond or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Richmond
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is notable for its resorts. However, Richmond is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in The Hamptons. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is Richmond or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Richmond
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is very good for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

Many people head to The Hamptons to enjoy the beach. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is Richmond or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Richmond
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting The Hamptons. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or The Hamptons?

Richmond
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

The Hamptons is a world class destination for shoppers. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

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 The Hamptons Better for Families?

Richmond
The Hamptons

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Richmond or The Hamptons.

Richmond is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

The Hamptons is a family-friendly city. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

Is Richmond or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Richmond
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.

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 The Hamptons Better for Students?

Richmond
The Hamptons

Richmond is a city with good options for students. However, The Hamptons is not popular with students.

Richmond is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.


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

Richmond
The Hamptons

Richmond is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Is Richmond or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Richmond
The Hamptons

Richmond and The Hamptons both are notable 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.

The Hamptons is somewhat walkable. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Richmond Worth Visiting? and Is The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or The Hamptons?

Both Richmond and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Richmond. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Richmond, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Richmond than The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Richmond or The Hamptons?

In Richmond, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this friendly city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

The beach destination of The Hamptons offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 The Hamptons?

Richmond is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The Hamptons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 The Hamptons?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the growing destination of Richmond. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

The Hamptons is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in The Hamptons, 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 The Hamptons?

Richmond is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hamptons 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, The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons is $223. 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 The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Richmond and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Richmond or The Hamptons? 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 The Hamptons


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
    The Hamptons $63

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 Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons 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
    The Hamptons $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
    The Hamptons $22

Tours and Activities in Richmond

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Court End Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Capitol Hill Ghost Walking Tour with A Guide: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    The Hamptons $31

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Richmond and The Hamptons, we can see that The Hamptons is more expensive. And not only is Richmond much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Richmond would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Richmond 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 The Hamptons would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hamptons than you might in Richmond.

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


Which is Bigger, Richmond or The Hamptons?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Richmond and The Hamptons, 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 Richmond or The Hamptons?

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 Richmond or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and The Hamptons. Many travelers come to Richmond for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Richmond is around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Richmond in July average around 78°F (26°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 76°F (25°C).

The Hamptons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Richmond gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Richmond usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Richmond or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Richmond as well as The Hamptons. Many visitors come to Richmond in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Richmond is generally around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 59°F (15°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Richmond usually gets more rain in October than The Hamptons. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Richmond or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Richmond for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in The Hamptons can be very cold. Richmond can be very cold during winter. Richmond is much warmer than The Hamptons in the winter. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 36°F (2°C) in January, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Richmond usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Richmond or The Hamptons in the Spring?

Both The Hamptons and Richmond during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year.

In the spring, Richmond is a little warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the spring temperatures in Richmond in April average around 58°F (14°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Richmond usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Richmond 58°F (14°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Richmond

Richmond The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)