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

Should you visit Charleston or Whistler?

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

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

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Whistler travel costs.

Charleston and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Whistler, 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, and quaint atmosphere, while Whistler is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and small town charm. Whistler is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. 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.

How is Charleston different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Charleston or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for snow skiing. However, Charleston is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Whistler is among the best in the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Charleston is not a skiing destination.

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

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village 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 Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Charleston is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village 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.

Whistler has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Charleston or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Whistler has plenty to do after the sun goes down. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Whistler Better for Music?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Whistler is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

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.

Is Charleston or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Charleston is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Whistler Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is renowned for its historic old town. However, Whistler does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Whistler does not have a historic old town.

Is Charleston or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Whistler draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Whistler?

Charleston is renowned for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Charleston or Whistler More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of superb scenery and beauty in both Charleston and Whistler.

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.

Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Charleston or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit 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.

Whistler is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Whistler Better for Couples?

Charleston is renowned for romance. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Charleston or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Whistler is a very popular village for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Whistler Better for Students?

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

Whistler is not popular with students.

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

Both Charleston and Whistler offer respectable 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Charleston or Whistler a more walkable city?

Charleston and Whistler both are superb 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.

Whistler is very walkable. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Whistler?

In either Charleston or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than Whistler because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

Couples should spend more time in Charleston than Whistler. 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.

One day in Charleston or Whistler?

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 shopping and skiing around the adventurous village of Whistler, 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Charleston or Whistler?

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 skiing and nightlife around the destination of Whistler, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler, a popular village, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this village. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Charleston or Whistler?

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.

Whistler 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charleston and Whistler, we can see that Charleston is more expensive. And not only is Whistler much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Whistler would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Whistler 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 Whistler.

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Whistler?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler 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, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In the summer, Charleston is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Whistler. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler during summer. Charleston gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Charleston. In July, Charleston usually receives more rain than Whistler. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Charleston or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler 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 Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Charleston gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Charleston usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Whistler in the Winter?

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

Whistler can get quite cold in the winter. Charleston is much warmer than Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during winter. Charleston gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Charleston usually receives less rain than Whistler. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Charleston or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Whistler. Many visitors come to Charleston in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Charleston is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In the spring, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Charleston gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Charleston usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Charleston