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

Should you visit Washington or Virginia Beach?

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 Virginia Beach can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a relaxing, bustling, and fun-filled coastal city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Washington and Virginia Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Virginia Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington than Virginia Beach. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Washington is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Virginia Beach attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Washington is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Virginia Beach is famous for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Washington different from Virginia Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach?

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Washington are world-renowned. 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.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Theater?

Washington is great for its theatre productions. However, Virginia Beach 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.

Virginia Beach is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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

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 Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Nightlife?

Washington 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 Washington for the nightlife scene. 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.

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 Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Music?

Washington 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 Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach is very good for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Virginia Beach to enjoy the beach. 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.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting 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.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Virginia Beach?

Washington is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Washington is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Christmas?

Washington is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Washington is a top place to visit during Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Virginia Beach.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Virginia Beach is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Couples?

Washington is great for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Virginia Beach is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Washington or Virginia Beach Better for Students?

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

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.

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

Washington 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 Washington can take you anywhere. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Virginia Beach a more walkable city?

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

Washington is a very easy city to get around 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.

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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Virginia Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Virginia Beach or Washington?

How long in Washington or Virginia Beach?

Both Washington and Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 5-7 days is enough time in Virginia Beach.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington 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 Washington.

One day in Washington or Virginia Beach?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With nightlife around the bustling coastal city of Virginia Beach, there's plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Washington or Virginia Beach?

Washington is a great place to explore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With nightlife around the destination of Virginia Beach, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Virginia Beach?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Virginia Beach, a popular coastal 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 coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Virginia Beach?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Virginia Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city 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 Virginia Beach, we can see that Washington 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 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 Virginia Beach.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Virginia Beach?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Virginia Beach. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach?

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 Washington or Virginia Beach in the Summer?

Both Virginia Beach and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Virginia Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Washington is around the same temperature as Virginia Beach. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Virginia Beach averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Virginia Beach during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Virginia Beach receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Virginia Beach. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Virginia Beach in the Autumn?

Both Virginia Beach and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Virginia Beach in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Virginia Beach. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

In Virginia Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Virginia Beach. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Virginia Beach receives 211 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Virginia Beach. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Virginia Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach for the cuisine during these months.

Virginia Beach can be very cold during winter. Washington can get quite cold in the winter. Washington is much colder than Virginia Beach in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Virginia Beach during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Virginia Beach receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Virginia Beach. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Virginia Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Washington is around the same temperature as Virginia Beach. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Virginia Beach averages at about 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the spring, Washington often gets less sunshine than Virginia Beach. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Virginia Beach receives 253 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Virginia Beach. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Virginia Beach and Washington