A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Williamsburg vs. Nantucket for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Williamsburg or Nantucket?

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 Nantucket. 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's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. 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. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Williamsburg and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Williamsburg or Nantucket?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Williamsburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantucket is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Williamsburg is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Williamsburg is well known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Nantucket is well known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Williamsburg different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Williamsburg is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Williamsburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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

Nantucket is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Nantucket, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Williamsburg. 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.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

Nantucket has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

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.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Nantucket is a great destination for its resorts. However, Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Nantucket to choose from. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Nantucket for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its old town.

The old town of Williamsburg is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Nantucket?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket Better for Families?

Williamsburg is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly town. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Nantucket is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Nantucket is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Williamsburg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket Better for Students?

Williamsburg is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Williamsburg. 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.

Nantucket is not popular with students.

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

Nantucket is a good destination for its public transit. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Is Williamsburg or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Nantucket is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

Nantucket is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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 Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Williamsburg or Nantucket. In our opinion, Nantucket has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nantucket than Williamsburg. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Williamsburg or Nantucket?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Williamsburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Nantucket?

You'll find museums and food around the charming destination of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Williamsburg or Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint town of Williamsburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nantucket is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Williamsburg or Nantucket?

Williamsburg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket 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 Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket 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 Nantucket Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Nantucket?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg and Nantucket, 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 Williamsburg or Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Williamsburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Williamsburg for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nantucket in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Williamsburg is a little warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the summer temperatures in Williamsburg in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Nantucket averages at about 68°F (20°C).

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

Should I visit Williamsburg or Nantucket in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Nantucket. Many visitors come to Williamsburg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Williamsburg is generally a little warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 61°F (16°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

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

Should I visit Williamsburg or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Nantucket. Most visitors come to Williamsburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nantucket can be very cold. Williamsburg can be very cold during winter. Williamsburg is much warmer than Nantucket in the winter. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 38°F (4°C) in January, and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

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

Should I visit Williamsburg or Nantucket in the Spring?

Both Nantucket and Williamsburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Williamsburg because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In the spring, Williamsburg is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the spring temperatures in Williamsburg in April average around 57°F (14°C), and Nantucket averages at about 45°F (7°C).

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

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Williamsburg