A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlottesville vs. Sonoma for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Charlottesville or Sonoma?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Charlottesville and Sonoma. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a young, collegiate, and southern university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Charlottesville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. 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 hiking. See Charlottesville travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a relaxing, scenic, and serene county. Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Sonoma travel costs.

Charlottesville and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Charlottesville or Sonoma?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sonoma. Although Charlottesville and Sonoma are both popular with visitors, Sonoma has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sonoma is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Charlottesville is known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Sonoma is more touristy than Charlottesville and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also home to Buena Vista Winery. Charlottesville is popular for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Charlottesville different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charlottesville or Sonoma?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Charlottesville is a university town with good options for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlottesville. A highlight of a trip to the area is a visit to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The city is also famously home to the beautiful University of Virginia, which has a manicured and beautiful campus. History buffs will also appreciate visiting the Civil War Sites that are nearby as well.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


Is the Food Better in Charlottesville or Sonoma? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Sonoma is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Charlottesville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Sonoma, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

Charlottesville may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Head to the Historic Downtown Mall to enjoy an outdoor meal at a top rated restaurant. There are also restaurants that cater specifically to students and offer affordable and quick meals.

Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for nightlife and partying. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Sonoma has something for everybody. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlottesville. Charlottesville is a university town with an active nightlife. The best areas for nightlife are found around the Downtown Mall, Belmont neighborhood, the Corner, and University Ave west near the mall. Even though there are a number of activities to enjoy at night, this is still a small town and the nightlife scene reflects that.

Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for its luxury resorts. However, Charlottesville is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Sonoma to choose from. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Charlottesville is not a resort destination.


Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for the beach. However, Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Sonoma for it's beautiful beaches. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for its Old Town?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Charlottesville is a university town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Sonoma does not have a historic old town.

Charlottesville has an old town worth visiting. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Sonoma does not have a historic old town.

Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for hiking. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Sonoma for the hiking trails. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Charlottesville is a good destination for hiking. Just outside of town there are plenty of hiking opportunities including in and around Shenandoah National Park. Hiking is at its best during the fall season when the leaves are changing.


Is the Shopping Better in Charlottesville or Sonoma?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Sonoma is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Charlottesville or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Sonoma is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Charlottesville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by the Shenandoah Mountains, this is a beautiful town and home to the beautiful University of Virginia.

Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for Families?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Both Charlottesville and Sonoma are good family-friendly destinations.

Charlottesville offers lots of family activities. Wandering the campus of UVA, picking fruit at Carter Mountain Orchard or exploring the downtown mall, including the Virginia Discovery Museum are all activities that everyone can enjoy. There are also great hiking trails just outside of town.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.


Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Sonoma is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for couples.

Sonoma is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

Charlottesville is a good university town for couples to visit. The UVA campus is beautiful to explore, as is Monticello. The Downtown Mall has many great restaurants and activities that make for a nice date night and during the day, there's also beautiful hikes nearby that are at their peak during the fall season.

Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for Students?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Charlottesville is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Sonoma is not popular with students.

Charlottesville is a very popular university town for students. The town is home to the beautiful University of Virginia and it's a popular destination for international students as well as local students. Much of the town is focused around student life, and the city's proximity to Washington, DC means it has access to global opportunities.

Sonoma is not popular with students.

Is Charlottesville or Sonoma Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Charlottesville is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charlottesville. There is a bus system that runs between campus, downtown, and several neighborhoods in Charlottesville.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.


Is Charlottesville or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Charlottesville
Sonoma

Charlottesville is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

Charlottesville is generally not a very walkable university town. While the University of Virginia campus and the Downtown Mall are both very walkable, most of the town is not.

Sonoma is not a walkable university town. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

For even more information, also check out Is Charlottesville Worth Visiting? and Is Sonoma Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Charlottesville?

How long in Charlottesville or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Charlottesville or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlottesville, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

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


  • How many days in Charlottesville or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlottesville 2-3 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Charlottesville or Sonoma?

Charlottesville might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The scenic destination of Sonoma offers food and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Charlottesville or Sonoma?

Charlottesville 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.

The county of Sonoma offers shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Charlottesville or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charlottesville. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sonoma is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This county offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Charlottesville or Sonoma?

Charlottesville is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Sonoma. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sonoma or Charlottesville?

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

  • Charlottesville Prices
    USA Prices
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Charlottesville $185
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlottesville is $185, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Charlottesville and Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlottesville $80
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlottesville $160
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Charlottesville and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Charlottesville or Sonoma? 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 Charlottesville


Hotels in Sonoma


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: Charlottesville Hotel Prices and Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlottesville $53
    Sonoma $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlottesville

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Charlotteville Airport (CHO): $50
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlottesville Airport (CHO): $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlottesville or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma and Charlottesville 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
    Charlottesville $73
    Sonoma $96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Charlottesville

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

  • The Dairy Market Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlottesville $18
    Sonoma $16

Tours and Activities in Charlottesville

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

  • Chains, Coffins, & Curses: Charlottesville Ghost Tours: $32
  • Chains, Coffins, & Curses: Charlottesville Ghost Tours: $24
  • Charlottesville Historic Downtown APP/GPS Smartphone Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Charlottesville Scavenger Hunt Experience: $15
  • Small Group Washington DC to Thomas Jefferson Monticello Day Tour: $180
  • Wine and Culinary Delight Private Tour: $248

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlottesville $53
    Sonoma $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlottesville

Also in Charlottesville, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Family Wine Tour: $85
  • Private Wine Tours (Minimum 3 & Maximum 6 ) Pickup Maximum 30 Mi : $95
  • 5 Hour Historic Thomas Jefferson Wine Tour: $248
  • Private Charlottesville Area Wine Tour: $248


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charlottesville and Sonoma, we can see that Sonoma is more expensive. And not only is Charlottesville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charlottesville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charlottesville 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 Sonoma would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sonoma than you might in Charlottesville.

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


Which is Bigger, Charlottesville or Sonoma?

Charlottesville has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Charlottesville and Sonoma, 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 Charlottesville or Sonoma?

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 Charlottesville or Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma and Charlottesville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Charlottesville for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charlottesville is a little warmer than Sonoma. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charlottesville in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Sonoma averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Charlottesville. In July, Charlottesville usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Charlottesville gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlottesville 78°F (26°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Charlottesville or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Charlottesville during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Charlottesville because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

In October, Charlottesville is generally cooler than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Charlottesville average around 59°F (15°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Charlottesville usually gets more rain in October than Sonoma. Charlottesville gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlottesville 59°F (15°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Charlottesville or Sonoma in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlottesville and Sonoma. The museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sonoma for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Charlottesville in the winter. Charlottesville is much colder than Sonoma in the winter. The daily temperature in Charlottesville averages around 36°F (2°C) in January, and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In January, Charlottesville usually receives less rain than Sonoma. Charlottesville gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlottesville 36°F (2°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Charlottesville or Sonoma in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charlottesville as well as Sonoma. Many travelers come to Charlottesville for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sonoma in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Charlottesville is around the same temperature as Sonoma. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charlottesville in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Sonoma averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Charlottesville usually gets more rain in April than Sonoma. Charlottesville gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlottesville 58°F (14°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Charlottesville

Charlottesville Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)