A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Charleston for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Washington or Charleston?

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 Washington and Charleston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Charleston

Charleston is a historic, classic, and picturesque coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Washington and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Charleston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Washington than Charleston. Washington is bigger than Charleston, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Washington is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, hiking, and big city activities, while Charleston is more popular for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Washington is well known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses.

How is Washington different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Washington on the map. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Theater?

Washington is notable for its shows and theatre. However, Charleston is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Charleston is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Washington and Charleston both to be terrific destinations.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Washington is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Music?

Washington and Charleston are both destinations where visitors can find notable live music.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

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

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Charleston is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston is great for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

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.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Charleston is revered around the world. 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Hiking?

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Charleston?

Charleston is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Charleston. 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences.

Washington is a fantastic destination at Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

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.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is very good for visiting Christmas markets. However, Washington does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston offers some nice Christmas markets. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Washington does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Families?

Washington 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.

Washington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Charleston has plenty to offer. 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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Washington or Charleston Better for Students?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Washington is a great destination for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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

Is Washington or Charleston a more walkable city?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Washington?

How long in Washington or Charleston?

Both Washington and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Washington than Charleston. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

Couples should spend more time in Charleston than Washington. 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 Washington than Charleston 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 Washington.

One day in Washington or Charleston?

When visiting Washington, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With live music and food around the charming coastal town of Charleston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Charleston?

When visiting Washington, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and shopping around the destination of Charleston, 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 coastal town.

Five days in Washington or Charleston?

Washington, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Charleston?

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Charleston?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Washington during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Washington. In the summer, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Charleston. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Charleston. Many travelers come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Washington is cooler than Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Washington as well as Charleston. Many visitors come to Washington in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Washington can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Washington is much colder than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Washington is generally cooler than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Charleston during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Washington