A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Asheville for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

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 Saint Petersburg and Asheville can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a fun-filled, underrated, and relaxed coastal city. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Saint Petersburg and Asheville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Asheville than Saint Petersburg. While Saint Petersburg is larger than Asheville, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint Petersburg attracts visitors for its museums, food, and beaches. Saint Petersburg is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. It is also well known for The Biltmore Estate.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Asheville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

Saint Petersburg is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Saint Petersburg. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint Petersburg or Asheville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Asheville is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is great for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Asheville for the nightlife scene. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Music?

Asheville is great for live music. However, Saint Petersburg is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Asheville draws a good crowd. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Saint Petersburg is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Saint Petersburg and Asheville.

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

With a selection of resorts, Asheville makes a nice vacation spot. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Saint Petersburg offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is adequate for its historic old town. However, Saint Petersburg does not have a historic old town.

Asheville is a good place to visit the old town. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Saint Petersburg does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Hiking?

Asheville is great for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

Asheville is great for shopping. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Asheville. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Saint Petersburg offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Christmas?

Asheville is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Saint Petersburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is a very popular destination during Christmas. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Saint Petersburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is adequate for visiting Christmas markets. However, Saint Petersburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville is a good spot to see some Christmas markets. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Saint Petersburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Saint Petersburg or Asheville.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Asheville is a very kid-friendly coastal city. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Couples?

Both Saint Petersburg and Asheville are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Asheville is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Asheville is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Students?

Asheville is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

Asheville is very popular with students. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Petersburg and Asheville both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

Is Saint Petersburg or Asheville a more walkable city?

Asheville is very good for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Asheville is somewhat walkable. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Asheville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Asheville or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Petersburg and Asheville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg than in Asheville. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Asheville.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Saint Petersburg 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 Asheville.

One day in Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of Saint Petersburg. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find live music and food around the outdoorsy destination of Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the underrated destination of Saint Petersburg. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and shopping around the progressive mountain town of Asheville. If you have a weekend, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed coastal city of Saint Petersburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Asheville is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

Saint Petersburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Asheville is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Asheville, 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 Saint Petersburg or Asheville?

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 Saint Petersburg or Asheville in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Asheville. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Asheville for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Petersburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 268 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. Saint Petersburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in July than Asheville. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Asheville in the Autumn?

Both Asheville and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Asheville because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Saint Petersburg is generally a little warmer than Asheville. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 76°F (24°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Asheville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville during autumn. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 229 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Asheville. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Asheville in the Winter?

Both Asheville and Saint Petersburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Asheville this time of year.

Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Asheville in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Asheville fluctuates around 44°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the winter, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Asheville. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 176 hours of full sun.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in January than Asheville. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Asheville in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Asheville. The beaches are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Asheville for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Asheville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Petersburg in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Asheville averages at about 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Asheville during spring. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 266 hours of full sun in the spring.

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Asheville. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Asheville and Saint Petersburg