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

Should you visit Charleston or Victoria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Victoria, 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 picturesque, charming, and southern 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Charleston travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Victoria travel costs.

Charleston and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Victoria?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Charleston than Victoria. While Victoria is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its food, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Victoria attracts visitors for its hiking. Charleston is famous for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park. Victoria is famous for its colonial buildings and public parks.

How is Charleston different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Victoria is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.

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

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurants. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Charleston or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Charleston and Victoria.

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 Victoria. There are a good number of bars and pubs around town. Most offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink in a casual setting.

Is Charleston or Victoria Better for Music?

Charleston is a good destination for its music scene. However, Victoria 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.

Victoria is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Victoria Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Victoria 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.

Victoria is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Victoria Better for Beaches?

Charleston is a very popular place for the beach. However, Victoria 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.

Victoria is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Victoria Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Victoria does not have a historic old town.

Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Victoria does not have a historic old town.

Is Charleston or Victoria Better for Hiking?

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

Victoria has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many outdoor spaces and parks that offer local hiking trails. This is a great way to experience the scenic beauty of the area.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Victoria?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Charleston specifically to go shopping. 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.

Victoria is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Is Charleston or Victoria More Beautiful?

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

Victoria is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Charleston or Victoria Better for Families?

Victoria 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.

Victoria is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside and get the energy out. Walking trails are popular. You can also do the Malahat SkyWalk which offers impressive views. Cadboro-Gyro Park has a playground, zip-line, and picnic areas. Another hightlight for kids is a visit to the Beacon Hill Children's Farm. If the weather isn't cooperating, you can visit the BC Aviation Museum.

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 Victoria Better for Couples?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for couples. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Victoria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city offers many great activities for couples such as a visit to Hatley Park and Castle. The city is also famous for its many flower gardens which are best visited in spring. Kayaking, hiking, and exploring are also favorite activities for couples.

Is Charleston or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Victoria is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

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 Victoria Better for Students?

Charleston is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Victoria is not popular with students.

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.

Victoria is not popular with students.

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

Both Charleston and Victoria 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 Victoria. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.

Is Charleston or Victoria a more walkable city?

Charleston and Victoria both are great 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.

Victoria is very walkable. Many of the sights are close by and easy to walk to.

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Charleston or Victoria. 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 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

One day in Charleston or Victoria?

The beautiful coastal town of Charleston offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the relaxing city of Victoria, 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 Victoria?

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Victoria, there's plenty to do. 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 Victoria?

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Victoria, a popular city, 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 Victoria?

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

Victoria 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 Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Victoria?

Victoria has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Victoria, 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 Victoria?

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 Victoria in the Summer?

Both Victoria and Charleston during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Victoria in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Charleston is much warmer than Victoria in the summer. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually gets more rain in July than Victoria. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Victoria in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Victoria. Many visitors come to Charleston in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Charleston is much warmer than Victoria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charleston in October average around 67°F (19°C), and Victoria averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In October, Charleston usually receives more rain than Victoria. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Charleston or Victoria in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Victoria. Most visitors come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Victoria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Victoria can be very cold. In January, Charleston is generally much warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 47°F (9°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

It's quite rainy in Victoria. Charleston usually gets less rain in January than Victoria. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Victoria in the Spring?

Both Victoria and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Charleston is much warmer than Victoria in the spring. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In April, Charleston usually receives more rain than Victoria. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Victoria and Charleston