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

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Charlotte?

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 Charlotte can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint Petersburg and Charlotte: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Charlotte?

Both Charlotte and Saint Petersburg have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Saint Petersburg is better known for its museums, food, resorts, and beaches, while Charlotte is more popular for its big city activities. Saint Petersburg is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

Saint Petersburg is great for its historical sights. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Saint Petersburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.


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

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

Saint Petersburg is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Petersburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Saint Petersburg or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

The vibe at night is notable in both Saint Petersburg and Charlotte.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Petersburg has a few options to choose from. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Is Saint Petersburg or Charlotte Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

Saint Petersburg is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Saint Petersburg has a few great resort options. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Charlotte Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

Saint Petersburg is terrific for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Charlotte?

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Charlotte both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. 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.

Charlotte offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Charlotte Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

Saint Petersburg is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Saint Petersburg. 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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.


Is Saint Petersburg or Charlotte Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

Saint Petersburg is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Saint Petersburg or Charlotte Better for Students?

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

Charlotte is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charlotte. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

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

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

Charlotte is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Charlotte offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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


Is Saint Petersburg or Charlotte a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Charlotte

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

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Charlotte Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Charlotte?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Petersburg and Charlotte. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg than in Charlotte. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Charlotte.

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

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


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Charlotte? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Charlotte 1-3

One day in Saint Petersburg or Charlotte?

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 food and shopping around the growing destination of Charlotte. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Charlotte?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled 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 shopping and museums around the evolving city of Charlotte. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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 Charlotte?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the underrated 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.

Charlotte is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Charlotte?

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.

Charlotte is a great place to explore. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Charlotte or Saint Petersburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $204, while the average daily cost in Charlotte is $191. 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 Saint Petersburg and Charlotte in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Charlotte $118
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Charlotte $236
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Charlotte

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Charlotte? 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 Saint Petersburg


Hotels in Charlotte


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Charlotte $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

Also for Charlotte, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $132
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $132
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Charlotte?

Prices for flights to both Charlotte and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $49
    Charlotte $46
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Charlotte $43

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • 2.5 Hour Black History Van Tour-Perseverance, Power, and Progress: $59
  • 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte: $75
  • Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour : $27
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • Charlotte Historic : Queen Bee City Tour: $39
  • Charlotte Historical City Tour: $45
  • Charlotte Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $90
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Charlotte's Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour: $48
  • Charlotte's Ultimate Southern Charm Historical City Cart Tour: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Charlotte $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Charlotte, we can see that Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg Expensive? and Is Charlotte Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Charlotte?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Saint Petersburg. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Charlotte, 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 Charlotte?

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 Saint Petersburg or Charlotte in the Summer?

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

In July, Saint Petersburg is generally around the same temperature as Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 82°F (28°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives less sunshine than Charlotte during summer. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. It's quite rainy in Saint Petersburg. In July, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Charlotte. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Charlotte in the Autumn?

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

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Charlotte in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the autumn, Saint Petersburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Charlotte. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Charlotte in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Charlotte. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Charlotte in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Charlotte. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Petersburg in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Charlotte averages at about 42°F (6°C).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during winter. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Charlotte. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Charlotte in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Charlotte. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Charlotte for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Saint Petersburg is generally a little warmer than Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 73°F (23°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in April than Charlotte. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Charlotte and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Charlotte
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)