A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Asheville vs. Moncton for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Asheville or Moncton?

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 Asheville and Moncton. 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.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. Asheville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and hiking. See Asheville travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a compact, cultural, and quaint city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Moncton travel costs.

Asheville and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Asheville or Moncton?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Asheville than Moncton. While Moncton is larger than Asheville, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Moncton is known for its museums and attractions. Asheville is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, and local North Carolina barbecue. It is also home to The Biltmore Estate. Moncton is popular for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Asheville different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Asheville or Moncton?

Asheville
Moncton

Moncton is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Moncton offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Asheville or Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Asheville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Asheville for the nightlife scene. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Music?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for its music scene. However, Moncton is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Asheville draws a good crowd. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Moncton is not a live music destination.


Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

Asheville has a few great resort options. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Moncton is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Moncton Better for its Old Town?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is adequate for its historic old town charm. However, Moncton does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Asheville is worth visiting. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Moncton does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Hiking?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for hiking. However, Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Moncton is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Moncton?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for its shopping areas. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Asheville. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Moncton is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Is Asheville or Moncton More Beautiful?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Asheville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With the surrounding mountains and the charming town, the area is filled with natural beauty.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Families?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Asheville. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.


Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Couples?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Asheville is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.

Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Students?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Moncton is not popular with students.

Many students visit Asheville. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Moncton is not popular with students.


Is Asheville or Moncton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Asheville
Moncton

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Asheville and Moncton.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around by using their own vehicle. In particular, if you plan to hike or explore the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll need a car. Many of the downtown hotels offer shuttle buses to the Biltmore area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Asheville or Moncton a more walkable city?

Asheville
Moncton

Asheville and Moncton both are good when exploring on foot.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to reach restaurants and shops on foot. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

Moncton is a somewhat walkable mountain town. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

For even more information, also check out Is Asheville Worth Visiting? and Is Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Asheville or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Asheville than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Moncton 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 Asheville.


  • How many days in Asheville or Moncton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Asheville 2-3 
    Moncton 1-2

One day in Asheville or Moncton?

In Asheville, you'll find nightlife and live music. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Moncton. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Moncton has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Asheville or Moncton?

In Asheville, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Asheville has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the compact destination of Moncton. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Moncton?

Asheville is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural city of Moncton. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Asheville or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Asheville. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Asheville. 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.

Moncton is a popular choice for travelers. 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.


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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton or Asheville?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Asheville Prices
    USA Prices
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Asheville $159
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Asheville is $159, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Asheville and Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Asheville $89
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Asheville $178
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Asheville and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Asheville or Moncton? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Asheville


Hotels in Moncton


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Asheville Hotel Prices and Moncton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Asheville $14
    Moncton -

Is it cheaper to fly into Asheville or Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton and Asheville change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Asheville $58
    Moncton $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Asheville $20
    Moncton $79
Typical Entertainment Prices in Asheville

Here are a few typical costs in Asheville for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Biltmore Estate Entrance Fee
    $60
  • Massage
    $40

Tours and Activities in Asheville

Here are a few actual costs in Asheville for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Explore Asheville on Segway Tours: $65
  • 2.5-3 HR Guided Scenic UTV Adventure: $175
  • 2.5-3 hour Smoky Mountain Cherokee Blue Ridge Parkway Safari tour: $130
  • 3 - 3.5 HR Smoky Mtn. Cherokee Eco Elk Safari Jeep Adventure : $150
  • 3-3.5 HR UTV ECO Elk Wilderness Adventure : $250
  • Asheville Ghost Tour: A Walk Through Riverside Cemetery & Montford Neighborhood: $27
  • Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views: $75
  • Asheville Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour: $41
  • Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour : $27
  • Asheville Sightseeing and Party Tour: $94
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Guided Jeep Tour: $109

Tours and Activities in Moncton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moncton.

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Asheville $16
    Moncton $4.54

Sample the Local Flavors in Asheville

Also in Asheville, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Asheville Bar Crawl: $15
  • Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour: $69
  • Premier Walking Guided Brewery Tour Through Downtown Asheville: $69
  • Bachelorette Royal Bar Crawl through South Slope District: $80
  • Floating Bar Crawl Tour: $85
  • Asheville Brewery Tour: $94
  • 2 Vineyard Wine Tour of Western NC: $159
  • Private Wine Tour with Dine in Black Mountain from Asheville: $230
  • Three Vineyards Half Day Private Wine Tour From Asheville: $260


When comparing the travel costs between Asheville and Moncton, we can see that Asheville is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Asheville or Moncton?

Moncton has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Moncton, 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 Asheville or Moncton?

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 Asheville or Moncton in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Asheville is a little warmer than Moncton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Asheville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Moncton averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than Moncton. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Asheville 82°F (28°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Asheville or Moncton in the Autumn?

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

In October, Asheville is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Asheville usually receives less rain than Moncton. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Asheville 64°F (18°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Asheville or Moncton in the Winter?

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

Moncton can get quite cold in the winter. Asheville is much warmer than Moncton in the winter. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 44°F (7°C) in January, and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Asheville receives a lot of rain in the winter. Asheville usually gets less rain in January than Moncton. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Asheville 44°F (7°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

Should I visit Asheville or Moncton in the Spring?

Both Moncton and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Asheville in the spring for the natural beauty.

Moncton can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Asheville is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Asheville in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Moncton averages at about 3°C (38°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. It's quite rainy in Asheville. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than Moncton. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Asheville 64°F (18°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Asheville

Asheville Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 47°F (8°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 71°F (22°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (118 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 55°F (13°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 47°F (8°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)