A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Richmond for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beaufort or Richmond?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Richmond, 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.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a charming, historic, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Beaufort travel costs.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Richmond travel costs.

Beaufort and Richmond: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Richmond?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Richmond, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Richmond is more popular for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Beaufort different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Richmond?

Beaufort
Richmond

Richmond is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Richmond can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Richmond? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Richmond

Beaufort is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Beaufort is an experience not to be missed. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Beaufort or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Richmond

Richmond is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Richmond

Beaufort is very good for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Richmond is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Richmond Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Richmond

Beaufort is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Richmond does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Richmond does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Richmond?

Beaufort
Richmond

Both Beaufort and Richmond are notable shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Beaufort or Richmond More Beautiful?

Beaufort
Richmond

Beaufort is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Beaufort or Richmond Better for Families?

Beaufort
Richmond

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Richmond is a family-friendly place to visit. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Richmond Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Richmond

Beaufort is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Beaufort or Richmond Better for Students?

Beaufort
Richmond

Richmond is a nice place to visit for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Richmond is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Beaufort is not popular with students.


Is Beaufort or Richmond Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Richmond

Richmond is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Beaufort or Richmond a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Richmond

Beaufort is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Richmond Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Richmond?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Richmond than Beaufort 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 Richmond.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Richmond? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Richmond 1-2

One day in Beaufort or Richmond?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Richmond offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Beaufort or Richmond?

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

Richmond is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Richmond, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Richmond?

Beaufort 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.

Richmond 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.

A week in Beaufort or Richmond?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Richmond is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Richmond or Beaufort?

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

  • Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
    Richmond Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beaufort $154
    Richmond $176

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $154, while the average daily cost in Richmond is $176. 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 Beaufort and Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Richmond? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Richmond


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Richmond $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $175
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $54
    Richmond $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • Church Hill Food Tour: $89
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $89
  • The Carytown Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Church Hill Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond with Discover Richmond: $90
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $94
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Richmond $13

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • The Haunted History of Richmond tour: $25
  • Uncivil Wards History Tour: $25
  • The Church Hill tour with Historian Jane: $25
  • Shadows of Shockoe Ghost Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $27
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $27
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $27
  • Creepy Tales on Campus Ghost Tour: $27
  • Specters & Shades of Court End Ghost Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Richmond -

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Virginia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $37
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $86
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


When comparing the travel costs between Beaufort and Richmond, we can see that Richmond 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 Beaufort Expensive? and Is Richmond Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Richmond, 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 Beaufort or Richmond?

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 Beaufort or Richmond in the Summer?

Both Richmond and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Richmond because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Richmond. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Richmond. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during summer. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Richmond. It's quite rainy in Beaufort. In July, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Richmond. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Richmond 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Richmond in the Autumn?

Both Richmond and Beaufort during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Richmond this time of year.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Richmond in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the autumn, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets less rain in October than Richmond. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Richmond in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Richmond. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Richmond for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Richmond. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Richmond averages at about 36°F (2°C).

Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond during winter. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Richmond. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Richmond in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Richmond. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the spring, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Richmond. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and Beaufort

Beaufort Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)