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

Should you visit Charlotte or Victoria?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Victoria can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a evolving, up-and-coming, and growing city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Charlotte travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a cultural, scenic, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Victoria travel costs.

Charlotte and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Victoria?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Charlotte than Victoria. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Charlotte is very popular for its big city activities, while Victoria attracts visitors for its hiking. Victoria is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its colonial buildings and public parks. Charlotte is famous for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. It is also well known for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charlotte or Victoria?

Charlotte
Victoria

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Victoria and Charlotte.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

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 Charlotte or Victoria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlotte
Victoria

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Charlotte and Victoria.

Charlotte is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

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 Charlotte or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Victoria

The vibe at night is nice in both Charlotte and Victoria.

If you're looking for night time activities Charlotte has a few options to choose from. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Charlotte or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Charlotte
Victoria

Victoria is very good for hiking. However, Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Victoria. 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.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Victoria?

Charlotte
Victoria

If you're looking to go shopping, Charlotte and Victoria both offer plenty of nice spots.

Charlotte has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

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

Is Charlotte or Victoria Better for Families?

Charlotte
Victoria

Victoria is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Victoria. 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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Charlotte or Victoria Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Victoria

Victoria is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Victoria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.


Is Charlotte or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Charlotte
Victoria

Victoria is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination for backpackers.

Victoria is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.

Is Charlotte or Victoria Better for Students?

Charlotte
Victoria

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

Plenty of students visit Charlotte. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Victoria is not popular with students.

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

Charlotte
Victoria

Charlotte is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Victoria is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Charlotte has some public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Victoria. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.


Is Charlotte or Victoria a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Victoria

Victoria is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Charlotte or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Victoria due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Victoria than Charlotte 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 Victoria.


  • How many days in Charlotte or Victoria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Victoria 3-4

One day in Charlotte or Victoria?

The city of Charlotte offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Victoria. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Charlotte or Victoria?

Charlotte is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charlotte, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Victoria. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Charlotte or Victoria?

Charlotte is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic city of Victoria. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Charlotte or Victoria?

Charlotte is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Victoria is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Charlotte?

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

  • Charlotte Prices
    USA Prices
    Victoria Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Charlotte $225
    Victoria $201

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $225, while the average daily cost in Victoria is $201. 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 Charlotte and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Victoria $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Victoria $226
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte or Victoria? 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 Charlotte


Hotels in Victoria


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Victoria $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Victoria

Also for Victoria, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Cruise Transfer with City Sightseeing Tour: $682
  • Victoria to Vancouver Scenic Seaplane Transfer: One Way: $289
  • Private Transfer from Victoria City Hotels to Nanaimo Cruise Port: $131
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Cruise Terminal Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer: $77
  • Victoria to Vancouver Ferry with Bus Transfer: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $80
    Victoria $47
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Victoria

For Victoria, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings: $86
  • Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria: $88
  • Vistas and Views Food Tour with 3-Course Meal: $100
  • Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour - Cowichan Valley : $125
  • Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour: $144
  • Gourmet Dinner Tour Including Local Beer, Wine and City Highlights: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlotte $43
    Victoria $45

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Charlotte.

  • Chains, Coffins, & Curses: Charlottesville Ghost Tours: $24

Tours and Activities in Victoria

For Victoria, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 24 Hour Hop-On, Hop-Off Double Decker Victoria City Tour: $44
  • 60-Minute Beacon Hill Park Tour: $227
  • 75-Minute The Royal Tour: $279
  • Beacon Hill Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Experience in Victoria: $227
  • Butchart & Beyond: The Grand Victoria Tour: $355
  • Butchart Gardens and City Private Tour: $292
  • COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix: $105
  • Chinatown and Hidden Alleys Pedicab Tour: $92
  • Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour: $88
  • East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour with a Bite and Beer: $129
  • Eat Like a Canadian Food & Sightseeing Tour: $59
  • Evening Sip, Savor, Stroll Tour: $147

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Victoria $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Victoria

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

  • Victoria BC: Tour & Tasting Around Award Winning Distillery: $21
  • Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers: $52
  • Local Brewery Tour with a Guide: $86
  • Victoria, BC: Food & Wine Tour to the Cowichan Valley: $118
  • 6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour: $126
  • Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie: $132
  • Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour : $144
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


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


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Victoria?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Victoria. When comparing the sizes of Charlotte 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 Charlotte or Victoria?

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 Charlotte or Victoria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Victoria. Many visitors come to Charlotte in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Victoria for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Charlotte is much warmer than Victoria in the summer. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Charlotte gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Victoria. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Victoria 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Charlotte or Victoria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Victoria. Most visitors come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Victoria because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Charlotte is much warmer than Victoria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charlotte in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Victoria averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Charlotte usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Victoria. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Victoria 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Charlotte or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Victoria this time of year.

It's quite cold in Victoria in the winter. In January, Charlotte is generally a little warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 42°F (6°C), and Victoria fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Victoria. In January, Charlotte usually receives less rain than Victoria. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Victoria 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Charlotte or Victoria in the Spring?

Both Victoria and Charlotte during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year.

Charlotte is much warmer than Victoria in the spring. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Charlotte usually gets more rain in April than Victoria. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Victoria 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Victoria and Charlotte

Charlotte Victoria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 5°C (41°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 7°C (44°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 10°C (49°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 12°C (54°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 14°C (58°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 16°C (60°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 16°C (61°F) 19 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 8°C (46°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 5°C (42°F) 153 mm (6 in)