A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Greenville vs. Monterey for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Greenville or Monterey?

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 Greenville and Monterey can help you decide which place is right for you.

Greenville

Greenville is a hospitable, southern, and welcoming city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Greenville travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Monterey travel costs.

Greenville and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Greenville or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monterey. Although Greenville and Monterey are popular destinations, Monterey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is more touristy than Greenville and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also well known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Greenville is famous for its outdoor spaces and its growing arts scene.

How is Greenville different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Greenville or Monterey?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Monterey specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Greenville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums focus on art, history, and science. Notable museums in town include the Greenville County Museum of Art, the Upcountry History Museum, and the Sigal Music Museum.


Is the Food Better in Greenville or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Greenville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Greenville offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The food scene is growing and the farm-to-table movement is apparent here, but the city is still often overlooked by foodies in the area.

Is Greenville or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Monterey has something for everybody. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Greenville. Bars, breweries, and low key clubs are what drive the city's nightlife scene. There are both piano bars and live music venues that often lean towards the local country classics.

Is Greenville or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Greenville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Greenville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Greenville or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is very good for the beach. However, Greenville is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Monterey to enjoy the beach. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Greenville is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Greenville or Monterey?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Greenville is a great destination for shopping. You'll find upscale shopping in the city's downtown and sprawling shopping malls in other neighborhoods. There are plenty of name brand stores where you can pick up the latest style.

Is Greenville or Monterey Better for Families?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Greenville is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many local families in town, so you'll find all kinds of kid-friendly activities to enjoy. Paris Mountain State Park is a popular place where everyone can run around. Falls Park on the Reedy River also has walking trails and is in the city's historic district. There's also a children's theater and plenty of playgrounds around town.


Is Greenville or Monterey Better for Couples?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is a great city for couples. However, Greenville is not known for romance.

Monterey is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Greenville is not the best destination for a couple to visit. You can take the free trolley down Main Street and then enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

Is Greenville or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Greenville is not known for backpackers.

Monterey is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Greenville is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. While there are students in the area, there is little else to bring backpackers to town.

Is Greenville or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Greenville
Monterey

Greenville and Monterey both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Greenville. There are free trolleys that make their way around the downtown neighborhoods.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.


Is Greenville or Monterey a more walkable city?

Greenville
Monterey

Monterey is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Greenville is not known for its walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Greenville is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is surprisingly walkable, but like most cities in the area, you need a car to make the most of your visit.

For even more information, also check out Is Greenville Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Greenville?

How long in Greenville or Monterey?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Greenville 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 Monterey.


  • How many days in Greenville or Monterey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Greenville 1-2 
    Monterey 1-3

One day in Greenville or Monterey?

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

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing city of Monterey, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Monterey, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Greenville or Monterey?

Greenville 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 Greenville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Monterey, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Greenville or Monterey?

Greenville 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.

Monterey, 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 Greenville or Monterey?

Greenville 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.

Monterey 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 Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Monterey or Greenville?

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

  • Greenville Prices
    USA Prices
    Monterey Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Greenville $0.00
    Monterey $211

The average daily cost (per person) in Greenville is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Monterey is $211. 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 Greenville and Monterey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greenville -
    Monterey $90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greenville $0.00
    Monterey $180
Compare Hotels in Greenville and Monterey

Looking for a hotel in Greenville or Monterey? 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 Greenville


Hotels in Monterey


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: Greenville Hotel Prices and Monterey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greenville $158
    Monterey $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Greenville

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

  • Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) to Greenville - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $174
  • Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) to Greenville - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Greenville to Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) - Departure Private Transfer: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Greenville or Monterey?

Prices for flights to both Monterey and Greenville 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
    Greenville $37
    Monterey $98
Typical Food Prices in Greenville

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


  • Marble Slab Creamery (for 2)
    $9.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greenville $25
    Monterey $27

Tours and Activities in Greenville

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

  • Epic Royalty Themed Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Greenville: $10
  • Greenville Bites and Sights Lunch Tour: $95
  • Greenville City Segway Tour: $75
  • Greenville Craft Cocktail Tour: $120
  • Greenville Haunted Bar Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Cocktail Tour: $109
  • 2-Hour Dessert Tour: $90
  • Bites and Sights Guided Walking Tour: $95
  • Downtown Helicopter Tour: $110
  • Helicopter Tour of Lake Robinson and Mountains: $275
  • Saturday Morning Breakfast Tour: $90
  • Scenic Helicopter Tour Over Swamp Rabbit Trail: $165

Tours and Activities in Monterey

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

  • "Family Friendly" Scenic E-Bike Tour along 17 Mile Dr: $79
  • Big Sur: Sightseeing Tour with 4 to 5 Stops: $214
  • From San Francisco: Monterey and Carmel Day Tour: $131
  • Mist, Mayhem & Murder: Monterey Ghost Tours: $24
  • Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise: $95
  • Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour: $75
  • Monterey County Salinas Valley Farm Tour: $208
  • Monterey Peninsula Sightseeing Tour including 17 Mile Drive: $202
  • Monterey- 3 Hour GPS Guided Tour: $229
  • 1-Hour GPS Guided Scooter Car Tour: $112
  • 17-Mile Drive Guided E-Bike Tour: $79
  • 17-Mile Drive Pebble Beach E-Bike Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greenville -
    Monterey $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Monterey

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

  • Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour: $206


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

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


Which is Bigger, Greenville or Monterey?

Greenville has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Greenville and Monterey, 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.