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

Should you visit Charleston or Vernon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Vernon, 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 quaint, historic, and classic coastal town. With stunning beauty, Charleston attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Charleston travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing town. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

Charleston and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • 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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Charleston or Vernon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charleston. Although Charleston and Vernon are popular destinations, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Vernon attracts visitors for its hiking. Charleston is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park. Vernon is famous for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Charleston different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Charleston
Vernon

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Charleston or Vernon.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. 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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Charleston or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Charleston or Vernon Better for Music?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Vernon is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Charleston active and fun. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Vernon is not a live music destination.


Is Charleston or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Vernon is not a resort destination.

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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is a well-known place for the beach. However, Vernon is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Charleston. 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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Vernon Better for its Old Town?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon does not have a historic old town.


Is Charleston or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Charleston
Vernon

Vernon is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Vernon is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Vernon?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Charleston or Vernon More Beautiful?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Charleston attracts visitors from all around. The charming history, beautiful architecture, and historic churches all make this city one of the most beautiful in the southern United States.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Charleston or Vernon Better for Families?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston and Vernon are both nice 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly coastal town. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Charleston or Vernon Better for Couples?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is terrific for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Charleston or Vernon Better for Students?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is a nice place to visit for students. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not popular with students.


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

Charleston
Vernon

Both Charleston and Vernon offer reasonable public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Charleston or Vernon a more walkable city?

Charleston
Vernon

Charleston is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable coastal town. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charleston and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Vernon. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

Families should spend more time in Charleston than Vernon. 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 Vernon. 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 Vernon 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 Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charleston 2-7 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Charleston or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Charleston. 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.

With museums and food around the relaxing town of Vernon, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vernon, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Charleston or Vernon?

Charleston 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Vernon, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the southern destination of Charleston. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Vernon 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon 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
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Charleston $212
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Charleston is $212, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charleston $90
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charleston $180
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Charleston and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Charleston or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charleston $33
    Vernon -

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 Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43
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
    Vernon -
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
    Vernon $13

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

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


Which is Bigger, Charleston or Vernon?

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

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 Charleston or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

Charleston is a little warmer than Vernon in the summer. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite rainy in Charleston. In July, Charleston usually receives more rain than Vernon. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charleston 82°F (28°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Charleston or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Charleston during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Charleston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Charleston is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charleston in October average around 67°F (19°C), and Vernon averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Charleston usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charleston 67°F (19°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Charleston or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Vernon. Many travelers come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vernon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vernon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Charleston is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 47°F (9°C), and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Charleston usually receives more rain than Vernon. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charleston 47°F (9°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Charleston or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Vernon. Many visitors come to Charleston in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Charleston is much warmer than Vernon in the spring. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Charleston usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charleston 64°F (18°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Charleston

Charleston Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 47°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 50°F (10°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 58°F (14°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 58°F (15°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 51°F (10°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)