Before you visit Williamsburg, use this travel cost guide to estimate your expenses and build a travel budget that works for you. This Williamsburg trip cost calculator includes average costs reported by thousands of previous travelers, with details on hotel prices, food and dining, sightseeing and entertainment, and transportation. Williamsburg is a quaint town known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments, all of which have costs that you should know about beforehand. This guide will help you plan the best trip to Williamsburg and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums or eating the delicious cuisine.
How much does it cost to travel to Williamsburg?
A typical traveler spends $135 per day on a trip to Williamsburg. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Williamsburg based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $54 on meals
- $11 on local transportation
- $132 on hotels
A one-week trip to Williamsburg for two people costs, on average, $1,890. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Williamsburg expensive to visit?
In Williamsburg, budget travelers spend $61 per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $135 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $284 per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Williamsburg.
Williamsburg is a well-known town that captivates a variety of travelers with diverse travel preferences and spending patterns. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
If you choose to make it so, Williamsburg can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by eating at less expensive restaurants and soaking up the old town atmosphere.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Williamsburg is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Hope, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Gainesville.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Williamsburg Expensive?
Williamsburg, Virginia
How much money do I need for a trip to Williamsburg?
The average Williamsburg trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Williamsburg travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Williamsburg cost?
Williamsburg on a Budget
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Category
|
Budget
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Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$30
|
$66
|
$116
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$11
|
$11
|
$11
|
|
Food2
|
$21
|
$54
|
$137
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$13
|
$34
|
$97
|
Accommodation Budget in Williamsburg
The prices for hotels in Williamsburg can really vary, especially during peak travel season. Off-season, the average hotel room costs $133, while during peak summer season, that average price jumps to around $248. With budget accommodations starting at $80 and luxury hotels peaking at $379, there are options for every traveler. Dorm-style hostels are often the cheapest. Traveling during the low season or booking early can help you save.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Williamsburg for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $132. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $66 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Williamsburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Williamsburg include:
- Kingsmill Resort starting at $222
- The Fife And Drum Inn starting at $214
- Williamsburg Sampler B & B starting at $245
- Cedars of Williamsburg Bed & Breakfast starting at $181
- Bluegreen Parkside Williamsburg Ascend Resort Collection starting at $198
This family-friendly town makes Williamsburg a great option for traveling with kids, and you'll want to find a larger place to stay.
Choosing to travel in the shoulder or low season and avoiding summer will help you save on lodging costs and escape the tourist rush.
The town's old town is a favorite spot for visitors. Hotels here may be expensive, but they usually have a lot of character and offer convenient access to local attractions.
Transportation Budget in Williamsburg
Unfortunately, Williamsburg does not have a reliable public transit network. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.
Unfortunately, many areas of the town do not support walking. 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.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $11 per person, per day, on local transportation in Williamsburg. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Williamsburg is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$11
Most people arrive in Williamsburg by car. As with most mid-sized U.S. towns, a car is important if you hope to see most of the sights in the area. There are several public buses that travel around town. They stop at the transportation center, which is also the local Amtrak station. The Yellow line goes to Busch Gardens and Water Country USA.
If you drive to Colonial Williamsburg, free parking is limited. There are plenty of paid parking lots in the area and shopping centers with free parking get crowded during the peak seasons.
Williamsburg's main airport is Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport but Richmond International Airport and Norfolk International Airport are both significantly larger and cheaper and less than an hour's drive away.
If you're traveling by car, check that your hotel offers convenient parking options.
How much does it cost to go to Williamsburg? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Williamsburg will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Williamsburg
Don't overlook the delicious food in Williamsburg. Make sure you take some time to savor all the local specialties. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Williamsburg can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Williamsburg is $54 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$54
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Williamsburg is around $54 ($54) per person, with previous travelers spending from $21 to $137. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Williamsburg are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $16
- Lunch: $8 to $21
- Dinner: $16 to $38
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
Restaurants are in abundance in Williamsburg and most are concentrated in either the Merchants Square area or along Richmond Road. Richmond Road is where you'll find most of the chain restaurants while in Merchants Square you'll find more local options, many of which make use of the historical aspect of the area. Do take note that most restaurants in shops around town close at 8:00PM. If you're looking for a great place to grab breakfast consider heading to the Gazebo, on Bypass Road. It's one of the best breakfast options in town.
If you're traveling with little ones, try to find restaurants that feature a children's menu. This can really cut costs since these meals are often cheaper. Remember, some places don't display kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter first.
Many establishments feature breakfast in their pricing, although some tack it on as an added expense. The price and quality can fluctuate depending on the hotel. Being aware of this beforehand helps you gauge if you'll need extra cash. The hotel buffet might be a delicious choice, or you could save some cash by heading to a nearby bakery or cafe.
Bring a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also a great way to help the environment.
Planning a tour? Be sure to confirm in advance which meals are provided. You could find yourself footing the bill for some meals, which can affect your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Williamsburg
It's no wonder that so many visitors make their way to Williamsburg for its historical sights, family-friendly activities, museums and attractions, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Williamsburg typically cost an average of $34 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$34
Most people travel to Williamsburg specifically to visit Colonial Williamsburg. This is the largest outdoor living history museum in the United States and it offers a unique look at an 18th century American town.
While Colonial Williamsburg is probably the most famous part of the city, there are many other places worth visiting while you're in the area. The College of William & Mary has many examples of colonial architecture intertwined with students relaxing on the quad or tossing a frisbee in nice weather. You can also visit the James River Plantations which are a collection of historic sights which bring to life the rich history of the area through guided tours.
Slightly less educational and perhaps more adrenaline filled options in the area include Busch Gardens Amusement Park and Water Country USA. It's easy to fill a day or two enjoying the wild rides at either of these parks. Water Country USA is regularly ranked one of the top water parks in the country.
In addition to visiting Colonial Williamsburg or the amusement parks in the area, Williamsburg has many activities for visitors wanting off-the-beaten-track experiences. Williamsburg Wintery has wine tastings as well as a quaint restaurant with impressive dishes. It's worth a visit once you've had your fill of history or park rides.
If you want to enjoy a simple hike, check out Greensprings Interpretive Trail. It's a 3.5 mile nature trail that passes through beaver ponds, wetlands, and forests. Next to the trail is Mainland Farm, which is the oldest continuously cultivated farm in the country.
Museums and Attractions:
The museums and landmarks in Williamsburg are some of the most famous in the world. 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.
Historical Sights:
Many travelers are drawn to the historic old town area. 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.
Shopping:
Visiting this shopping destination is an experience you can't afford to miss. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Williamsburg. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Exclusive Private Colonial Williamsburg Walking Tour by a Local for $95 details
- Yorktown Museum, Battlefields & Historic Area-Private Guided Tour for $250 details
- Private Colonial Williamsburg Architectural Tour for $195 details
Travel cost data last updated: May 4, 2026
Traveling in Williamsburg
Williamsburg, Viriginia
In southeast Virginia, Williamsburg is a historic city that was the capital of Virginia during the 1700's. It's now a popular tourist destination in the state because it has managed to recreate its past in a theme park like setting. Perhaps the most famous attraction in the city is "Colonial Williamsburg," an outdoor museum that recreates an 18th century town with working tradesmen and functioning jobs. You can purchase a one day pass to the area for $36 and multiple day passes at a slight discount. Exhibits in the area include observing a court proceeding, seeing the Governor's Palace, and witnessing the impact of the American Revolution on the area.
Williamsburg has a climate that is similar to the rest of the region. Winters are cool or cold and summers are hot and humid. Average snowfall is about five inches a year and thunderstorms in the summer months are not uncommon.
Neighborhoods & Around
Most visitors spend the majority of their time in Colonial Williamsburg and the historic district. The College of William and Mary is quite beautiful and worth exploring as well. It's located at the end of Duke of Gloucester Street. Most of the city's chain restaurants are spread out along Richmond Road, while Merchants Square is where you'll find local eateries.
Williamsburg has a variety of local hotels, guesthouses, and bed an breakfasts. Many have a quaint atmosphere and utilize the historic character of the area. There are also several chain hotels in the area, many near Busch Gardens.
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Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations about your travel budget in Williamsburg is important. While you might think you can save money by cutting expenses, traveling comfortably requires a bit more spending for most people. Think about your favorite vacation activities and ideal travel style. Staying in a resort or comfortable hotel, along with sightseeing and dining out are generally what many people prefer. Your travel preferences will determine how much you'll end up spending on your trip.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $61 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
While food is a highlight for many in Williamsburg, budget travelers often resort to street food or self-catering in hostels, which can lead to missed opportunities for savoring the local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. Most people who travel to Williamsburg will want to experience its major attractions, museums, and historical landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $135 per person, per day.
In Williamsburg, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Bluegreen Parkside Williamsburg Ascend Resort Collection is a fantastic option for families, and Comfort Suites Williamsburg Historic Area is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Williamsburg here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $284 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the town, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Holiday Decorations Walking Tour - offered by Viator.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
