A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Charleston vs. Toronto for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Charleston or Toronto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Toronto, 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 historic, classic, and picturesque 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Charleston travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant, cultural, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Toronto travel costs.

Charleston and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Toronto?

You'll generally find more things to do in Toronto than Charleston. Toronto is bigger than Charleston, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Toronto is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and big city activities, while Charleston is more popular for its food, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Toronto is well known for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. Also, Toronto is famous for the CN Tower.

How is Charleston different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Toronto on the map. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

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.

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

Charleston is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Charleston have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Toronto has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for Music?

Charleston is a coastal town with good options for live music. However, Toronto is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Toronto is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a coastal town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Toronto is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Toronto is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Charleston is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Toronto is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. 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.

Toronto is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is terrific for its historic old town. However, Toronto does not have a historic old town.

Charleston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Toronto does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Toronto?

Both Charleston and Toronto are first-rate shopping destinations.

Charleston is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Toronto. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Is Charleston or Toronto More Beautiful?

Charleston is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for Families?

Toronto is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Toronto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Charleston is a family-friendly coastal town. 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.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for Couples?

Charleston is terrific for romance. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Charleston is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toronto is notable for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Toronto is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Charleston or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Toronto is a great destination for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. 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.

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

Toronto is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Toronto is top-notch. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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 Toronto a more walkable city?

Charleston and Toronto both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Toronto is very walkable. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Toronto?

Both Charleston and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Charleston than Toronto. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

Families should spend more time in Charleston than Toronto. 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 Toronto. 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 Toronto than Charleston 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 Toronto.

One day in Charleston or Toronto?

In Charleston, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Toronto?

In Charleston, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Charleston or Toronto?

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Charleston or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. In Charleston, you'll find live music and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Toronto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. 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 Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charleston and Toronto, we can see that Toronto 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 Toronto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toronto 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 Toronto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Toronto, 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 Charleston or Toronto?

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 Charleston or Toronto in the Summer?

Both Toronto and Charleston during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Toronto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charleston is a little warmer than Toronto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Toronto averages at about 21°C (70°F).

In Toronto, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charleston. In the summer, Charleston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toronto. Charleston gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually gets more rain in July than Toronto. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Toronto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Toronto. Many travelers come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Toronto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Charleston is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 67°F (19°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during autumn. Charleston gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charleston usually receives more rain than Toronto. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Charleston or Toronto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Toronto. Many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Toronto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Toronto can be very cold during winter. Charleston is much warmer than Toronto in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Charleston gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets more rain in January than Toronto. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Toronto in the Spring?

Both Toronto and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Toronto because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Charleston is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Toronto averages at about 7°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during spring. Charleston gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Charleston usually receives more rain than Toronto. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Charleston