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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Charlottesville, 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.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Philadelphia is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a traditional, young, and collegiate university town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Charlottesville is a beautiful place to visit, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and nightlife. See Charlottesville travel costs.

Philadelphia and Charlottesville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Charlottesville, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Philadelphia is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Charlottesville is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Philadelphia is more touristy than Charlottesville and is known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell. Charlottesville is well known for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Philadelphia different from Charlottesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Philadelphia is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Philadelphia are world-renowned. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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.

Is Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great city for its theatre productions. However, Charlottesville is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Charlottesville is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Philadelphia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a great city 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 Philadelphia has something for everybody. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a great city for its live music scene. However, Charlottesville is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has a thriving music scene. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Charlottesville is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia and Charlottesville both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Philadelphia. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Charlottesville offers a nice historic old town area. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Is Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for Hiking?

Charlottesville is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Charlottesville has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

Philadelphia is a great city for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Philadelphia is well-known for its shopping. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Philadelphia or Charlottesville More Beautiful?

Philadelphia and Charlottesville are somewhat similar when it comes to the notable scenery.

Philadelphia is a beautiful place to visit, too. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of 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 Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for Families?

Philadelphia is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Charlottesville is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Charlottesville are both notable to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Charlottesville is a good city 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 Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlottesville is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Charlottesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is camping an hiking in the area that is a good option for backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Charlottesville Better for Students?

Charlottesville is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Charlottesville is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

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

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

Public transit in Philadelphia can get you to some places easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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

Is Philadelphia or Charlottesville a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is terrific for its high level of walkability. However, Charlottesville is not known for its ease of walking around.

Philadelphia is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Charlottesville or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Charlottesville. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Charlottesville. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Charlottesville 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 Philadelphia.

One day in Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

Philadelphia is a big city with plenty to do. It's no surprise that museums 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.

Charlottesville is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

Philadelphia is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Charlottesville is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Charlottesville is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Philadelphia. 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.

Charlottesville is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Charlottesville, we can see that Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia Expensive? and Is Charlottesville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Charlottesville. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Charlottesville, 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 Philadelphia or Charlottesville?

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 Philadelphia or Charlottesville in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Charlottesville. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Charlottesville in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Charlottesville in the summer. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlottesville this time of the year. In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Charlottesville during summer. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charlottesville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Charlottesville. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Charlottesville in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Charlottesville. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Charlottesville for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Philadelphia is cooler than Charlottesville. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Philadelphia in October average around 56°F (14°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the autumn, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Charlottesville. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 221 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in October than Charlottesville. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Charlottesville in the Winter?

Both Charlottesville and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charlottesville because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine.

The weather in Charlottesville can be very cold. Philadelphia can be very cold during winter. In January, Philadelphia is generally much colder than Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 30°F (-1°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Charlottesville during winter. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Charlottesville. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Charlottesville in the Spring?

Both Charlottesville and Philadelphia during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year.

Philadelphia is cooler than Charlottesville in the spring. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 52°F (11°C) in April, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Charlottesville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the spring, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Charlottesville. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 265 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Charlottesville. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charlottesville and Philadelphia