A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. Boston for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Boston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Boston, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a relaxing, bustling, and fun-filled coastal city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife and beaches.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Virginia Beach and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston than Virginia Beach. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Virginia Beach attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Boston is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Virginia Beach is famous for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Virginia Beach or Boston?

Boston is terrific for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Boston are world-renowned. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is great for its theatre productions. However, Virginia Beach is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Virginia Beach is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Boston is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Virginia Beach. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach is a good destination for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Virginia Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach is a good destination for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Virginia Beach offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is terrific for its old town. However, Virginia Beach does not have a historic old town.

Boston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Virginia Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or Boston?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is a very popular destination during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has plenty of Christmas markets during the holiday season. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Virginia Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Couples?

Virginia Beach and Boston are both nice to visit as a couple.

Virginia Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Boston is a good coastal city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for students.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city to visit for students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Boston can take you anywhere. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Virginia Beach or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is terrific for its high level of walkability. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Virginia Beach is generally not very walkable. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

For even more information, also check out Is Virginia Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Boston?

In either Virginia Beach or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Virginia Beach than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Virginia Beach 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 Boston.

One day in Virginia Beach or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Virginia Beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or Boston?

Virginia Beach is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Boston is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Virginia Beach or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Virginia Beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Virginia Beach or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the bustling destination of Virginia Beach. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Boston. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Virginia Beach or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Virginia Beach. When comparing the sizes of Virginia Beach and Boston, 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 Virginia Beach or Boston?

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 Virginia Beach or Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and Virginia Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Virginia Beach is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 79°F (26°C), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. In the summer, Virginia Beach often gets less sunshine than Boston. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in July than Boston. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Boston. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Virginia Beach is a little warmer than Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Virginia Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Boston during autumn. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Virginia Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Boston. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Boston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Boston. Most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Boston can be very cold. Virginia Beach can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Virginia Beach is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Virginia Beach in January average around 39°F (4°C), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Virginia Beach often gets more sunshine than Boston. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Boston. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In April, Virginia Beach is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Boston during spring. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Virginia Beach usually receives less rain than Boston. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Virginia Beach