A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Williamsburg vs. Cape Cod for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

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 Williamsburg and Cape Cod. 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.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a well-preserved, historic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and food.

Williamsburg and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Williamsburg. Although Williamsburg and Cape Cod are popular destinations, Williamsburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Williamsburg is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Cape Cod attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Williamsburg is famous for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. It is also well known for Colonial Williamsburg. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Williamsburg different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

Williamsburg is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Williamsburg or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Williamsburg and Cape Cod both to be excellent destinations.

Dining out in Williamsburg is an experience not to be missed. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cape Cod. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Williamsburg is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod is a good destination for its resorts. However, Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod is a great destination for the beach. However, Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Cape Cod for it's beautiful beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Williamsburg offers plenty to see. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod offers some nice hiking trails. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cape Cod and Williamsburg.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Williamsburg is very family-friendly. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Williamsburg and Cape Cod both excellent destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Williamsburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Cape Cod is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for Students?

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Williamsburg is a very popular place to visit for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Williamsburg and Cape Cod.

Public transit is generally limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Williamsburg or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Cape Cod is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable town. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Williamsburg Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

Both Williamsburg and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Williamsburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Williamsburg, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Williamsburg than Cape Cod 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 Williamsburg.

One day in Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

The town of Williamsburg offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

Williamsburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Williamsburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

Williamsburg 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.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

Williamsburg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Williamsburg or Cape Cod?

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 Williamsburg or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Williamsburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Williamsburg because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

Williamsburg is a little warmer than Cape Cod in the summer. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. Williamsburg usually gets more rain in July than Cape Cod. Williamsburg gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Cape Cod. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Williamsburg is a little warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Williamsburg in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 53°F (12°C).

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

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Williamsburg usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Williamsburg gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Cape Cod. Many travelers come to Williamsburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Cape Cod can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Williamsburg. In January, Williamsburg is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 38°F (4°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Williamsburg often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Williamsburg gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Williamsburg usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Williamsburg gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Cape Cod in the Spring?

Both Cape Cod and Williamsburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Williamsburg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Williamsburg is much warmer than Cape Cod in the spring. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 57°F (14°C) in April, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In April, Williamsburg usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Williamsburg gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Williamsburg