A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Augustine vs. Galveston for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Saint Augustine or Galveston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Augustine or Galveston, 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.

Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine is a notable, colonial, and historic city. Saint Augustine is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Saint Augustine travel costs.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Galveston travel costs.

Saint Augustine and Galveston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Augustine or Galveston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Augustine. Although Saint Augustine and Galveston are popular destinations, Saint Augustine has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Augustine is very popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Galveston attracts visitors for its nightlife and small town charm. Saint Augustine is famous for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States. It is also well known for the Colonial Quarter. Galveston is famous for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes.

How is Saint Augustine different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Augustine or Galveston?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Both Saint Augustine and Galveston have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Saint Augustine can be an interesting and educational experience. It's history is brought to life with many monuments and museums. The Lightner Museum, the Old Jail Museum, the Lincolnville Museum, and Castillo De San Marcos are among the city's most notable sights. Also worth a visit is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Galveston. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.


Is the Food Better in Saint Augustine or Galveston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Saint Augustine is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Augustine has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is influenced by the long history of the city. You'll find flavors that are influenced by Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. There are several popular dishes around town such as fried shrimp, clam chowder, and shrimp and grits.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Saint Augustine or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Galveston is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Galveston know how to have a good time. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Augustine has a few options to choose from. There are wineries, pubs, live music venues, and a number of activities that take advantage of the outdoor setting.

Is Saint Augustine or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Saint Augustine is great for the beach. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

Saint Augustine is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Head to the beach to relax and swim. There are miles of sandy beach nearby, with some of the most popular being Ponte Vedra Beach, known for its golf courses, Vilano Beach, with its charming atmosphere, and the scenic Anastasia State Park.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.


Is Saint Augustine or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Saint Augustine is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town charm.

Saint Augustine offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. As the longest running, continuously occupied city in the United States, the Historic Downtown is at the heart of the city. It's filled with quaint restaurants, historic hotels, and charming streets. You can take carriage rides or wander through the historic sites. Many of the buildings date back to the 1700s and offer a glimpse into Florida's past.

Galveston offers a nice historic old town area. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Augustine or Galveston?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Saint Augustine is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Saint Augustine is well-known for its shopping. The Historic Downtown has unique art galleries and boutiques. St. George Street is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir and Aviles Street is the oldest street in the United States. It's also filled with artisan boutiques. Plaza de la Constitución is known for its long running public market and it often has live entertainment.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Saint Augustine or Galveston More Beautiful?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Saint Augustine is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Augustine is a beautiful place to visit, too. Colonial architecture and a charming atmosphere give this historic town a unique beauty.

Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Saint Augustine or Galveston Better for Families?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Saint Augustine and Galveston are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Saint Augustine is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Alligator Farm but there's also a surprisingly fascinating archaeological park - The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The Colonial Quarter is fun for all ages as well, as is a visit to Fort Castillo De San Marcos. If you have some time, head outside of town to the Marineland Dolphin Adventure, which is well worth the trip.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Galveston is very family-friendly. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Is Saint Augustine or Galveston Better for Couples?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Saint Augustine and Galveston are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Saint Augustine frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The Ancient City has a charm that is unique in Florida. There is beautiful architecture and a historical atmosphere that is romantic and genuine. You can enjoy a carriage ride and then sample some local cuisine before heading to the beach.

Galveston is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

Is Saint Augustine or Galveston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Saint Augustine and Galveston.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Augustine. The Old Town Trolley travels through the historic center. There's also a bus service through the region, but you really need a private vehicle to explore everything.

Public transit is mostly limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.


Is Saint Augustine or Galveston a more walkable city?

Saint Augustine
Galveston

Saint Augustine is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Saint Augustine is a very walkable city. It's one of the more walkable cities in the area. Downtown, Uptown, and even near the beach have accessible areas with sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable city. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Augustine Worth Visiting? and Is Galveston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Saint Augustine?

How long in Saint Augustine or Galveston?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Augustine than Galveston 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 Saint Augustine.


  • How many days in Saint Augustine or Galveston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Augustine 3-4 
    Galveston 1-3

One day in Saint Augustine or Galveston?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Saint Augustine. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The charming destination of Galveston offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Saint Augustine or Galveston?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colonial destination of Saint Augustine. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

The town of Galveston offers food and shopping. 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 Saint Augustine or Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Saint Augustine. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Galveston is a great place to explore. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Saint Augustine or Galveston?

Saint Augustine is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galveston. 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Galveston or Saint Augustine?

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

  • Saint Augustine Prices
    USA Prices
    Galveston Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Augustine $195
    Galveston $221

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Augustine is $195, while the average daily cost in Galveston is $221. 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 Saint Augustine and Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Augustine $86
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Augustine $172
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in Saint Augustine and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in Saint Augustine or Galveston? 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 Saint Augustine


Hotels in Galveston


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: Saint Augustine Hotel Prices and Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Augustine $39
    Galveston $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Augustine or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston and Saint Augustine 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
    Saint Augustine $85
    Galveston $90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Augustine

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Saint Augustine.

  • Cooking Class/Dinner W/ Celebrity French Chef OR Private Chef Ser: $115
  • St. Augustine Historical FOOD Tour on Electric Cart with Pick Up : $129
  • The Ghoulish Gourmet Haunted Food Tour: $129
  • Feast of Saint Augustine Historical Walking Food Tour: $139

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

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

  • Taste of the Strand all-inclusive family friendly food tours: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Augustine $18
    Galveston $15

Tours and Activities in Saint Augustine

Here are a few actual costs in Saint Augustine for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • St. Augustine Ghost Tour on Premium Golf Cart with PiCk Up : $39
  • 1 Hour Historical Tour of Saint Augustine Florida & FREE Parking: $36
  • 1 Hour Private Historical Tour of Saint Augustine, Florida : $250
  • 10:30pm Shadows of the Supernatural Tour : $25
  • 8pm Beyond the Grave Tour: $25
  • : Step back in time with pastime private historical tours: $38
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of St Augustine's Twisted History: $15
  • Adventure Boat Tours - Sunset Water Tour in St. Augustine: $40
  • Adventure Boat Tours Dolphin Tails & History Cruise St Augustine : $38
  • Airboat Adventure in Saint Augustine with a Guide: $80
  • America‘s Oldest City: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of St Augustine: $20
  • Bastions of St. Augustine Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.99

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Luggage Storage Close to Cruise Terminal: $9.53
  • Self-Guided Galveston Ghost Audio Tour : $10
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Adventure in League City : $10
  • Beer Tasting Experience with 4 Beer Flight: $10
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Al's Ghost tour : a small group experience : $19
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • Galveston's Secrets of the Strand Walking Tour : $23
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $24
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $25
  • Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Augustine $25
    Galveston $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint Augustine

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Saint Augustine:

  • St. Augustine's Booze & Boos Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • St. Augustine Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Dark History Pub Crawl from Saint Augustine: $40
  • Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine : $49
  • Spirits with the Spirits haunted pub crawl - drinks included: $59
  • Toast of St. Augustine Walking Pub Crawl - drinks included: $63
  • Mobile Wine Tasting and Food Pairing Tour St. Augustine: $129

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour: $20
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $20
  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour in Galveston: $29
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl and Historical Tour near The Strand: $29
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Augustine and Galveston, we can see that Galveston 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 Saint Augustine Expensive? and Is Galveston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Augustine or Galveston?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Saint Augustine. When comparing the sizes of Saint Augustine and Galveston, 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 Saint Augustine or Galveston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Galveston in the Summer?

Both Galveston and Saint Augustine during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Augustine for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Augustine is around the same temperature as Galveston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Augustine in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Galveston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Augustine. Saint Augustine usually gets more rain in July than Galveston. Saint Augustine gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Augustine 82°F (28°C) 
    Galveston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Galveston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Augustine and Galveston. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Augustine because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Galveston this time of year.

In October, Saint Augustine is generally around the same temperature as Galveston. Daily temperatures in Saint Augustine average around 70°F (21°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In October, Saint Augustine usually receives more rain than Galveston. Saint Augustine gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Augustine.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Augustine 70°F (21°C) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Galveston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Augustine as well as Galveston. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Augustine this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Saint Augustine is around the same temperature as Galveston in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Augustine averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Galveston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Saint Augustine usually gets more rain in January than Galveston. Saint Augustine gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Augustine 53°F (12°C) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Galveston in the Spring?

Both Galveston and Saint Augustine are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint Augustine for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Galveston in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Saint Augustine is around the same temperature as Galveston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Augustine in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Galveston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In April, Saint Augustine usually receives more rain than Galveston. Saint Augustine gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Saint Augustine is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Augustine 68°F (20°C) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)