A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Austin vs. Williamsburg for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Austin or Williamsburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Williamsburg, 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.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. Austin is a very beautiful destination, too. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and shopping. See Austin travel costs.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a quaint, well-preserved, and historic town. Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Williamsburg travel costs.

Austin and Williamsburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Williamsburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Austin than Williamsburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Austin is better known for its food, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Williamsburg is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Williamsburg is more touristy than Austin and is known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital.

How is Austin different from Williamsburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Williamsburg?

Both Austin and Williamsburg have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Austin can be an interesting and educational experience. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Williamsburg. 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.

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

Austin 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 Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin or Williamsburg Better for Nightlife?

Austin is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

People head to Austin just to party. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Austin or Williamsburg Better for Music?

Austin is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Williamsburg is not a live music destination.

In Austin you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Williamsburg is not a live music destination.

Is Austin or Williamsburg Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Williamsburg is revered around 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.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Austin or Williamsburg Better for Hiking?

Austin is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Williamsburg?

Williamsburg is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Williamsburg is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Austin or Williamsburg More Beautiful?

Williamsburg is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its scenery and beauty.

Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

Austin is beautiful destination to visit. The city has some nearby natural beauty as well as an eclectic style.

Is Austin or Williamsburg Better for Families?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Austin or Williamsburg Better for Couples?

Williamsburg is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Austin or Williamsburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is a great destination for backpackers. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Austin is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Williamsburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a number of restaurants and bars that cater to the student population, but there's little else that attracts backpackers.

Is Austin or Williamsburg Better for Students?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for students. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is a great destination for students. 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Williamsburg.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

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 Austin or Williamsburg a more walkable city?

Austin and Williamsburg both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Austin is generally not very walkable. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Austin Worth Visiting? and Is Williamsburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Williamsburg or Austin?

How long in Austin or Williamsburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Austin or Williamsburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Williamsburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Williamsburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin 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 Austin.

One day in Austin or Williamsburg?

In Austin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this entrepreneurial city offers. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or Williamsburg?

Austin is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Williamsburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Williamsburg?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the unconventional destination of Austin. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Williamsburg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Williamsburg?

Austin is a popular place to visit. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Williamsburg. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Austin and Williamsburg, we can see that Austin 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 Austin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Austin 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 Austin Expensive? and Is Williamsburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Austin or Williamsburg?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Williamsburg, 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 Austin or Williamsburg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Austin or Williamsburg in the Summer?

Both Williamsburg and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Williamsburg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Austin is generally a little warmer than Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 87°F (30°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Williamsburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. Austin usually receives more sunshine than Williamsburg during summer. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. In July, Austin usually receives less rain than Williamsburg. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Austin or Williamsburg in the Autumn?

Both Williamsburg and Austin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Austin in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Williamsburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Austin is a little warmer than Williamsburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Williamsburg fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In Williamsburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Austin. In the autumn, Austin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Williamsburg. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 211 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets more rain in October than Williamsburg. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Williamsburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Williamsburg. Most visitors come to Austin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Williamsburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Williamsburg can be very cold. In the winter, Austin is much warmer than Williamsburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Austin in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Williamsburg averages at about 38°F (4°C).

Austin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Williamsburg during winter. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Austin usually receives less rain than Williamsburg. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Austin or Williamsburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Austin as well as Williamsburg. The spring months attract visitors to Austin because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year.

In April, Austin is generally much warmer than Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 71°F (22°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In the spring, Austin often gets less sunshine than Williamsburg. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 253 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets more rain in April than Williamsburg. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Williamsburg and Austin