A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Charleston for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Tampa or Charleston?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Charleston? 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food and beaches.

Charleston

Charleston is a picturesque, charming, and southern coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Tampa and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Charleston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Charleston than Tampa. While Tampa is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Tampa attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and big city activities. Charleston is more touristy than Tampa and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Charleston?

Charleston is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tampa or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Charleston is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Tampa is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Tampa is not a live music destination.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a few great resort options. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa is a moderate city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Tampa and Charleston are very good choices.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Charleston is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Tampa does not have a historic old town.

Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Tampa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Charleston?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Charleston specifically to go shopping. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Tampa does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Charleston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Tampa does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Tampa does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Tampa does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Families?

Tampa is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tampa is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Charleston is a family-friendly city. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Tampa is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Tampa is not popular with students.

Is Tampa or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charleston is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Charleston?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Tampa 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 Charleston.

One day in Tampa or Charleston?

With food around the low-key city of Tampa, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Charleston, many people enjoy the live music and food that this classic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Charleston?

With food around the destination of Tampa, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Charleston?

Tampa, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston is a fun place to experience. In Charleston, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tampa or Charleston?

Tampa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Charleston, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this classic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Tampa and Charleston, we can see that Tampa 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 Tampa Expensive? and Is Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tampa or Charleston?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Tampa and Charleston, 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 Tampa or Charleston?

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 Tampa or Charleston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Charleston. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tampa is around the same temperature as Charleston in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the summer, Tampa often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Charleston. Tampa receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tampa usually gets more rain in July than Charleston. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Charleston in the Autumn?

Both Charleston and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tampa in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Tampa is a little warmer than Charleston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Charleston averages at about 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tampa usually receives less rain than Charleston. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tampa or Charleston in the Winter?

Both Charleston and Tampa during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tampa for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the winter, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Charleston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Charleston. The spring months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

Tampa is a little warmer than Charleston in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during spring. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tampa usually receives less rain than Charleston. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Tampa