A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Monterey for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Asheville or Monterey?

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 Monterey. 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 outdoorsy, progressive, and open-minded 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Monterey travel costs.

Asheville and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Asheville. Although Asheville and Monterey are both popular with visitors, Asheville has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Asheville is more popular for its music, resorts, historical sights, hiking, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Monterey is known for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Monterey is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Asheville is popular for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, and local North Carolina barbecue. It is also home to The Biltmore Estate.

How is Asheville different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Monterey is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Asheville and Monterey can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Asheville. 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.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Asheville and Monterey.

Asheville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Many people head to Monterey for the nightlife scene. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Music?

Asheville is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Monterey is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Asheville while you're in town. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Monterey is not a live music destination.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Asheville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Asheville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a good destination for the beach. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Monterey offers a nice beach destination. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is a decent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Asheville is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Asheville. 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.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Monterey?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Monterey and Asheville.

Asheville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is Asheville or Monterey More Beautiful?

Asheville is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Couples?

Asheville and Monterey both excellent destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Asheville frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Monterey is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Asheville or Monterey Better for Students?

Asheville is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

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

Monterey is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Asheville or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Monterey is a very walkable city. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable mountain town. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Asheville and Monterey. In our opinion, Asheville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Asheville than Monterey. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

Couples should spend more time in Asheville than Monterey. 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 Monterey 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.

One day in Asheville or Monterey?

The mountain town of Asheville offers live music and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

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

A weekend in Asheville or Monterey?

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

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

Asheville 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.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing city of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

Asheville is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This mountain town offers something for everyone.

Monterey 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 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 Asheville and Monterey, we can see that Monterey is more expensive. And not only is Asheville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Asheville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Asheville 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 Monterey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monterey than you might in Asheville.

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

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Monterey?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Monterey. The summer months attract visitors to Asheville because of the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the summer, Asheville is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Asheville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Monterey averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Monterey for the shopping scene.

In October, Asheville is generally around the same temperature as Monterey. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Asheville usually receives more rain than Monterey. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Asheville or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Asheville during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Asheville is much colder than Monterey in the winter. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 44°F (7°C) in January, and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Monterey. Many visitors come to Asheville in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Asheville is a little warmer than Monterey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Asheville in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Monterey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than Monterey. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Asheville