A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Antonio vs. Richmond for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit San Antonio or Richmond?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Antonio and Richmond. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a festive, fun, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Richmond

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

San Antonio and Richmond: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in San Antonio or Richmond?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Antonio than Richmond. San Antonio is bigger than Richmond, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Antonio is well known for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. Also, San Antonio is famous for The Alamo. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

How is San Antonio different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Antonio or Richmond?

San Antonio
Richmond

Both San Antonio and Richmond have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Antonio. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

Richmond offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.


Is the Food Better in San Antonio or Richmond? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Antonio
Richmond

Dining out at restaurants in both San Antonio and Richmond can be an enjoyable experience.

San Antonio offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

Richmond has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 San Antonio or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

San Antonio
Richmond

It's hard to distinguish whether San Antonio or Richmond has a better nightlife scene.

San Antonio has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

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.

Is San Antonio or Richmond Better for Music?

San Antonio
Richmond

San Antonio is very good for its music scene. However, Richmond is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Antonio. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Richmond is not a live music destination.


Is San Antonio or Richmond Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio
Richmond

San Antonio is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Richmond does not have a historic old town.

San Antonio offers a nice historic old town area. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Richmond does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Richmond?

San Antonio
Richmond

Shopping is a popular activity in both Richmond and San Antonio.

San Antonio is a great destination for shopping. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is San Antonio or Richmond Better for Christmas?

San Antonio
Richmond

San Antonio is very good for its Christmas activities. However, Richmond does not offer Christmas activities.

Many visitors go to San Antonio during the Christmas season. It's fun to see the lights along the River Walk at Christmas.

Richmond does not offer Christmas activities.


Is San Antonio or Richmond Better for Families?

San Antonio
Richmond

San Antonio is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

San Antonio is one of the most popular family destinations. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

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 San Antonio or Richmond Better for Couples?

San Antonio
Richmond

San Antonio and Richmond both notable destinations for a couple.

San Antonio is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

Richmond makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 San Antonio or Richmond Better for Students?

San Antonio
Richmond

San Antonio and Richmond are notable places to visit for students.

San Antonio is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

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


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

San Antonio
Richmond

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both San Antonio and Richmond.

Public transit is generally limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

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

Is San Antonio or Richmond a more walkable city?

San Antonio
Richmond

Richmond is a good destination for its walkability. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable city. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is San Antonio Worth Visiting? and Is Richmond Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Richmond or San Antonio?

How long in San Antonio or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in San Antonio or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in San Antonio than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Antonio, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio than Richmond 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 San Antonio.


  • How many days in San Antonio or Richmond? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Antonio 2-3 
    Richmond 1-2

One day in San Antonio or Richmond?

The city of San Antonio offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Richmond. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in San Antonio or Richmond?

San Antonio 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 San Antonio, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the growing destination of Richmond. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in San Antonio or Richmond?

San Antonio 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.

The historical city of Richmond offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in San Antonio or Richmond?

San Antonio 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Richmond. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Richmond or San Antonio?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Antonio is $132, while the average daily cost in Richmond is $161. 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 San Antonio and Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Antonio $69
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Antonio $138
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in San Antonio and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in San Antonio or Richmond? 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 San Antonio


Hotels in Richmond


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: San Antonio Hotel Prices and Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Antonio $20
    Richmond $72
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • Private Round Trip Transfer - San Antonio International Airport (SAT): $93
  • San Antonio International Airport (SAT) - Arrival or Departure Private Transfer : $93
  • Private Transfer: San Antonio Airport to San Antonio by Sedan, SUV or Minibus : $97
  • Galveston: One-Way Transfer GLS Airport to City: $237

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 San Antonio or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond and San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $40
    Richmond $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

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

  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $75

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
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Antonio $36
    Richmond $13
Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

Here are a few typical costs in San Antonio for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

Here are a few actual costs in San Antonio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self-Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Briscoe Western Art Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • The Alamo Exhibit Entry Ticket: $14
  • San Antonio Ranger Creek Brewstillery Tour: $15
  • Witte Museum Admission Ticket: $16
  • Tower of the Americas Entry Ticket: $20
  • San Antonio Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • San Antonio Museum of Art Entry Ticket: $22
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience: $24
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience Ticket: $24
  • San Antonio Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Historical Ghost Tour: $25

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 Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $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
  • Shockoe Bottom Ghost Walking Tour: $30
  • Phantoms of Franklin Walking 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Antonio -
    Richmond -

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Death Warmed Over: San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Texas’ Oldest Haunted Pub Crawl Shared Walking Tour: $30
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $155

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

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


Which is Bigger, San Antonio or Richmond?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Richmond. When comparing the sizes of San Antonio and Richmond, 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 San Antonio or Richmond?

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 San Antonio or Richmond in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Antonio and Richmond. Many travelers come to San Antonio for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Richmond in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Antonio is generally a little warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 87°F (31°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In San Antonio, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Antonio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond during summer. San Antonio gets 307 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

Richmond receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, San Antonio usually receives less rain than Richmond. San Antonio gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    San Antonio 87°F (31°C) 
    Richmond 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Richmond in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Antonio as well as Richmond. Many visitors come to San Antonio in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Richmond for the shopping scene during these months.

San Antonio is much warmer than Richmond in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Antonio averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Antonio this time of the year. In the autumn, San Antonio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. San Antonio gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun.

San Antonio usually gets less rain in October than Richmond. San Antonio gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    San Antonio 73°F (23°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Richmond in the Winter?

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

The weather in Richmond can be very cold. In the winter, San Antonio is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Antonio in January average around 54°F (12°C), and Richmond averages at about 36°F (2°C).

San Antonio usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during winter. San Antonio gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, San Antonio usually receives less rain than Richmond. San Antonio gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Antonio 54°F (12°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit San Antonio or Richmond in the Spring?

Both Richmond and San Antonio during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to San Antonio because of the natural beauty.

In April, San Antonio is generally much warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 74°F (23°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Antonio. In the spring, San Antonio often gets less sunshine than Richmond. San Antonio gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun.

San Antonio usually gets less rain in April than Richmond. San Antonio gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Antonio 74°F (23°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and San Antonio

San Antonio Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 54°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 57°F (14°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 84°F (29°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)