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

Should you visit Charleston or Avon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Avon, 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. Charleston is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Charleston travel costs.

Avon

Avon is a active, outdoorsy, and scenic town. Other popular activities here include skiing, nightlife, and food. See Avon travel costs.

Charleston and Avon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Charleston or Avon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its museums and attractions, food, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Avon is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Avon is well known for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort.

How is Charleston different from Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Charleston or Avon Better for Skiing?

Charleston
Avon

Avon is notable for snow skiing. However, Charleston is not a skiing destination.

Avon is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Charleston is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charleston or Avon?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its museums and history.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

While most people don't head to Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

Is the Food Better in Charleston or Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Charleston, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Avon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

Is Charleston or Avon Better for Nightlife?

Charleston
Avon

Evening events are notable in both Charleston and Avon.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Avon. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.


Is Charleston or Avon Better for Music?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is a good destination for live music. However, Avon is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Avon is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Avon Better for Resorts?

Charleston
Avon

With a similar set of options, notable resorts can be found in both Charleston and Avon.

Charleston has a few great resort options. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Avon has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Is Charleston or Avon Better for Beaches?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is notable for its beaches. However, Avon is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Charleston for it's beautiful beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Avon is not a beach destination.


Is Charleston or Avon Better for its Old Town?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Avon does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Charleston can be explored in its historical center. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Avon does not have a historic old town.

Is Charleston or Avon Better for Hiking?

Charleston
Avon

Avon is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Avon has hiking trails worth exploring. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Avon?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its shopping opportunities.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

If you're looking to go shopping, Avon has some nice offerings. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.


Is Charleston or Avon More Beautiful?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Charleston is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The charming history, beautiful architecture, and historic churches all make this city one of the most beautiful in the southern United States.

Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Charleston or Avon Better for Families?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston and Avon are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Charleston is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Avon is a family-friendly coastal town. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.

Is Charleston or Avon Better for Couples?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Charleston is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.


Is Charleston or Avon Better for Students?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is a good destination for students. However, Avon is not popular with students.

Charleston is a good coastal town to visit for students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Avon is not popular with students.

Is Charleston or Avon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charleston
Avon

Avon is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Avon has a few public transit options. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Charleston or Avon a more walkable city?

Charleston
Avon

Charleston is notable for its walkability. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Avon is a somewhat walkable place. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.


For even more information, also check out Is Charleston Worth Visiting? and Is Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avon or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Avon?

It's fun to spend time in either Charleston or Avon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Charleston due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Avon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Avon 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 Charleston.


  • How many days in Charleston or Avon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charleston 2-7 
    Avon 2-4

One day in Charleston or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Charleston. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and skiing around the outdoorsy town of Avon, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Charleston or Avon?

Charleston is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Avon, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Charleston or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Charleston. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Avon, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Charleston or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the classic coastal town of Charleston. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Avon or Charleston?

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

  • Charleston Prices
    USA Prices
    Avon Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Charleston $212
    Avon $326

The average daily cost (per person) in Charleston is $212, while the average daily cost in Avon is $326. 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 Charleston and Avon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charleston $90
    Avon $177
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charleston $180
    Avon $354
Compare Hotels in Charleston and Avon

Looking for a hotel in Charleston or Avon? 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 Charleston


Hotels in Avon


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: Charleston Hotel Prices and Avon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charleston $33
    Avon $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charleston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Charleston:

  • From Boone Hall Plantation Entry with Transfers: $71
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $80
  • Private Transfer from Charleston City to Charleston Cruise Port: $125
  • Private Transfer from Charleston Port to Charleston Airport (CHS): $134
  • Private Transfer from Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston Port: $134
  • Charleston city to Charleston Airport (CHS) - Departure Private Transfer: $134
  • Isle of Palms/Sullivans to Charleston AirportCHS Private Transfer: $147
  • Folly Beach to Charleston Airport (CHS) - Departure Private Transfer: $147
  • Kiawah/Seabrook Islands to Charleston Airport (CHS) – Departure Private Transfer: $208
  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Charleston city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $268
  • Charleston Airport (CHS) to Folly Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $294
  • Charleston AirportCHS to Isle of Palms/Sullivans Private Transfer: $294

Is it cheaper to fly into Charleston or Avon?

Prices for flights to both Avon and Charleston 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
    Charleston $100
    Avon $117
Typical Food Prices in Charleston

Some typical examples of dining costs in Charleston are as follows:


  • Lunch in downtown Charleston for two
    $21
  • Breakfast
    $26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Charleston

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

  • Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise: $72
  • Hands-on Cooking Class in Charleston: $89
  • Tastes Through Time - Charleston's Best Food Tour!: $96
  • Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $100
  • Tastes Through Time - Charleston's Best Food Tour: $109
  • Charleston Brunch Food Tour: Biscuits, Shrimps, Grits and More: $110
  • Charleston French Quarter or Brunch Food Tour with 7+ Tastings: $110
  • Downtown Charleston Food Tour: $110
  • Charleston's Savor the Flavors of Upper King Street Walking Food Tour: $111
  • Savor the Flavors Upper King Street Food Tour: $111
  • Small Group Food Tour – Savor the Flavors: $111
  • Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise: $111

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charleston $22
    Avon $48
Typical Entertainment Prices in Charleston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Charleston are as follows:


  • Patriots Point (for 2)
    $60

Tours and Activities in Charleston

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

  • Charleston Self-Guided Ghost Tour in 12 Languages: $5.00
  • Charleston's Haunted Ghost Tour - Solo Smart Phone Guided Tour: $6.75
  • Charleston Historic Downtown Exploration Game and Tour: $7.16
  • Charleston Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $7.78
  • Charleston Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Self-Guided "The French Quarter Charleston" Solo Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Charleston Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Window into American History: A Self-guided Charleston Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Charleston Self Guided Ghost Tour in 12 Languages: $10
  • Charleston Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • 300 Years of War and Peacetime in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • South Carolina Audio Tour: Charleston Audio Tour Adventure: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charleston $36
    Avon $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Charleston

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

  • Charleston Bar Hunt: Charleston Chase Bar Crawl: $13
  • Striped Pig Distillery Tour and Tasting: $22
  • Charleston’s Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Charleston Women and Wine Tour: $34
  • Women and Wine Tour: $34
  • Charleston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Bay Street Bastards Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl for the Broken-Hearted: $35
  • Bay Street Bastards Pub Crawl Shared Tour in Charleston : $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl for the Broken-Hearted: $35
  • Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl: $35


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charleston and Avon, we can see that Avon is more expensive. And not only is Charleston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charleston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charleston 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 Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avon than you might in Charleston.

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


Which is Bigger, Charleston or Avon?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Avon. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Avon, 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.