A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. Big Sur for Couples, Hiking, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

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 Gatlinburg and Big Sur can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and skiing. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking. See Big Sur travel costs.

Gatlinburg and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gatlinburg is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Big Sur is more popular for its food, beaches, and impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Big Sur and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also, Gatlinburg is famous for the Gatlinburg Strip. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Gatlinburg different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is very good for skiing. However, Big Sur is not a skiing destination.

Head to Gatlinburg for some great skiing and other winter activities. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Big Sur is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

Gatlinburg is very good for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Gatlinburg. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Gatlinburg or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Sur is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Big Sur. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Gatlinburg is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is great for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Gatlinburg. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is great for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Big Sur is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

You'll find very good hiking in both Gatlinburg and Big Sur.

Many visitors go to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

Gatlinburg is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Gatlinburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in its beauty.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Families?

Big Sur is very good for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Big Sur offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is renowned for romance. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Sur has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Gatlinburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Big Sur is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gatlinburg is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Gatlinburg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Gatlinburg or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is great for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Gatlinburg and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gatlinburg than in Big Sur. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Gatlinburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

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

One day in Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

In Gatlinburg, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food around the breathtaking natural area of Big Sur, 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 Big Sur, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

In Gatlinburg, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Gatlinburg has to offer.

With food around the destination of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this natural area.

Five days in Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

Gatlinburg is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur, a popular natural area, 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 Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gatlinburg. Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Gatlinburg. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Big Sur 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 San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Gatlinburg or Big Sur?

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 Gatlinburg or Big Sur in the Summer?

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

In July, Gatlinburg is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 81°F (27°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. In July, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Gatlinburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Gatlinburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Gatlinburg is around the same temperature as Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and Big Sur. Many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the winter for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Gatlinburg. In the winter, Gatlinburg is much colder than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Gatlinburg in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Big Sur. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Gatlinburg is generally a little warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 62°F (17°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Gatlinburg