A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wilmington vs. Charleston for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Wilmington or Charleston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Charleston, 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Wilmington and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wilmington or Charleston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charleston. Although Wilmington and Charleston are roughly the same size, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Wilmington is well known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is Wilmington different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Wilmington or Charleston.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Charleston offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 the Food Better in Wilmington or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Wilmington or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Wilmington and Charleston.

If you're looking for night time activities Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Wilmington or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Wilmington is not a live music destination.

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.

Wilmington is not a live music destination.

Is Wilmington or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Is Wilmington or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Both Wilmington and Charleston have superb beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Wilmington. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. 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.

Is Wilmington or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

The rich history of Charleston can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Many people head to Wilmington to see the old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Charleston?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is Wilmington or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Wilmington does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is a very popular destination during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Wilmington does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Wilmington or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Wilmington does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Wilmington does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Wilmington or Charleston Better for Families?

Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

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 Wilmington or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Is Wilmington or Charleston Better for Students?

For students, both Wilmington and Charleston are notable places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Charleston is a good city to visit for students. 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 Wilmington or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wilmington and Charleston both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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

Is Wilmington or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is great for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Charleston?

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

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

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

One day in Wilmington or Charleston?

With museums and nightlife around the charming city of Wilmington, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 historic 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 Wilmington or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Wilmington, 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 city.

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 Wilmington or Charleston?

Wilmington, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Wilmington or Charleston?

Wilmington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wilmington and Charleston, we can see that Wilmington 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 Wilmington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wilmington 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 Wilmington Expensive? and Is Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Wilmington. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Wilmington during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In July, Wilmington is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 81°F (27°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 Wilmington. In the summer, Wilmington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Wilmington gets 283 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. Wilmington usually gets more rain in July than Charleston. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wilmington or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Charleston. The shopping scene are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Wilmington is around the same temperature as Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Wilmington gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wilmington usually receives less rain than Charleston. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wilmington or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Charleston. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Wilmington is cooler than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wilmington in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

In the winter, Wilmington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Wilmington gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets more rain in January than Charleston. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wilmington or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Wilmington is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 63°F (17°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 Wilmington. Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during spring. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Wilmington