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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Charlottesville? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, food, and beaches.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a southern, proud, and traditional university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Saint Simons and Charlottesville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Charlottesville are popular destinations, Saint Simons has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Simons is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Charlottesville attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Saint Simons is more touristy than Charlottesville and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also well known for East Beach. Charlottesville is famous for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Saint Simons different from Charlottesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

Charlottesville is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Charlottesville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. A highlight of a trip to the area is a visit to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The city is also famously home to the beautiful University of Virginia, which has a manicured and beautiful campus. History buffs will also appreciate visiting the Civil War Sites that are nearby as well.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Charlottesville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Charlottesville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Simons has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Charlottesville may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Head to the Historic Downtown Mall to enjoy an outdoor meal at a top rated restaurant. There are also restaurants that cater specifically to students and offer affordable and quick meals.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for Nightlife?

Charlottesville is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Charlottesville has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Charlottesville is a university town with an active nightlife. The best areas for nightlife are found around the Downtown Mall, Belmont neighborhood, the Corner, and University Ave west near the mall. Even though there are a number of activities to enjoy at night, this is still a small town and the nightlife scene reflects that.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is a great island for the beache. However, Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint Simons for it's beautiful beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for its Old Town?

Charlottesville is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Charlottesville to see the historical old town. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Saint Simons and Charlottesville both have nice trails.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Many people include a hike when visiting Charlottesville. Just outside of town there are plenty of hiking opportunities including in and around Shenandoah National Park. Hiking is at its best during the fall season when the leaves are changing.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

Saint Simons is a great island for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Saint Simons is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for Christmas?

Charlottesville is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Saint Simons does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Charlottesville. From Christmas lights on campus to a festive atmosphere at the Monticello, the town is beautiful for Christmas.

Saint Simons does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for Families?

Saint Simons is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Simons is very family-friendly. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Charlottesville is a family-friendly place to visit. Wandering the campus of UVA, picking fruit at Carter Mountain Orchard or exploring the downtown mall, including the Virginia Discovery Museum are all activities that everyone can enjoy. There are also great hiking trails just outside of town.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for Couples?

Saint Simons is a great island for its romantic activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for couples.

Saint Simons is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Charlottesville is a good island for couples to visit. The UVA campus is beautiful to explore, as is Monticello. The Downtown Mall has many great restaurants and activities that make for a nice date night and during the day, there's also beautiful hikes nearby that are at their peak during the fall season.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville Better for Students?

Charlottesville is an unbeatable place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Charlottesville. The town is home to the beautiful University of Virginia and it's a popular destination for international students as well as local students. Much of the town is focused around student life, and the city's proximity to Washington, DC means it has access to global opportunities.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

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

Charlottesville is a university town with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Charlottesville. There is a bus system that runs between campus, downtown, and several neighborhoods in Charlottesville.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Charlottesville a more walkable city?

Saint Simons is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Charlottesville is not known for its ease of walking around.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Charlottesville is generally not very walkable. While the University of Virginia campus and the Downtown Mall are both very walkable, most of the town is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Charlottesville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlottesville or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlottesville than Saint Simons 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 Charlottesville.

One day in Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Charlottesville, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this collegiate university town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Charlottesville 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.

Five days in Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the proud small town of Charlottesville. 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.

A week in Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Charlottesville 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.

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 comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Charlottesville, we can see that Saint Simons 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 Simons Expensive? and Is Charlottesville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Charlottesville?

Charlottesville has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Charlottesville, 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 Simons or Charlottesville?

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 Simons or Charlottesville in the Summer?

Both Charlottesville and Saint Simons during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Charlottesville because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Charlottesville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 78°F (26°C).

In Charlottesville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 305 hours of full sun.

Charlottesville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Charlottesville. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Charlottesville in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Charlottesville. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year.

In October, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlottesville this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Charlottesville. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Charlottesville in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Charlottesville. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charlottesville for the museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Charlottesville. Saint Simons is much warmer than Charlottesville in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Charlottesville. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 169 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Charlottesville. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Charlottesville in the Spring?

Both Charlottesville and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Charlottesville in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Charlottesville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlottesville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 265 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charlottesville. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charlottesville and Saint Simons