A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Augustine vs. Lancaster for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Augustine or Lancaster?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Augustine or Lancaster, 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 colonial, historic, and notable city. Saint Augustine offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Saint Augustine travel costs.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a scenic, traditional, and picturesque town. Lancaster is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Lancaster travel costs.

Saint Augustine and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Augustine or Lancaster?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Augustine than Lancaster, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Augustine is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and historical sights, while Lancaster is more popular for its impressive beauty. Saint Augustine is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States. Also, Saint Augustine is famous for the Colonial Quarter. Lancaster is well known for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Saint Augustine different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Both Saint Augustine and Lancaster have superb 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 Lancaster. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.


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

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Both Saint Augustine and Lancaster offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Augustine makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Lancaster has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Saint Augustine or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Saint Augustine is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Saint Augustine or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Saint Augustine is a great city for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Saint Augustine. 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.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Augustine or Lancaster Better for its Old Town?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Saint Augustine is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lancaster does not have a historic old town.

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.

Lancaster does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Augustine or Lancaster?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lancaster and Saint Augustine.

Saint Augustine is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Lancaster is well-known for its shopping. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Is Saint Augustine or Lancaster More Beautiful?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Lancaster is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

Lancaster is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

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


Is Saint Augustine or Lancaster Better for Families?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Saint Augustine and Lancaster are both superb 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, Lancaster is very family-friendly. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Saint Augustine or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Saint Augustine and Lancaster are both superb 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.

Lancaster is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

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

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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.


Is Saint Augustine or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Saint Augustine
Lancaster

Saint Augustine is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

Saint Augustine is a very walkable destination. 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.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Saint Augustine?

How long in Saint Augustine or Lancaster?

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

Families should spend more time in Saint Augustine than Lancaster. 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 Lancaster. 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Augustine 3-4 
    Lancaster 2-3

One day in Saint Augustine or Lancaster?

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 picturesque destination of Lancaster offers shopping and museums. 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 Saint Augustine or Lancaster?

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 Lancaster offers museums and food. 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 Lancaster?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colonial 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.

Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

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 shopping and museums when visiting Lancaster. 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, Lancaster 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
    Lancaster Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Augustine $195
    Lancaster $221

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



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Augustine $86
    Lancaster $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Augustine $172
    Lancaster $182
Compare Hotels in Saint Augustine and Lancaster

Looking for a hotel in Saint Augustine or Lancaster? 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 Lancaster


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 Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Augustine $39
    Lancaster $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Augustine or Lancaster?

Prices for flights to both Lancaster 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
    Lancaster $91

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 Lancaster

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

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, PA: $62
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $69
  • 3 Hour Retro Music Variety Show Dinner Theater: $75
  • Outdoor Cooking Class Activity with Customizable Recipes: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Augustine $18
    Lancaster $19

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 Lancaster

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

  • Guided Tour of the Lititz 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $10
  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • Passport to Spain - Interactive Culinary Experience: $23
  • Ghost Tour of Lancaster: $25
  • Lititz Whiskey and History Tour : $25
  • Amish Farmlands Tour: $27
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $35
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House: $38
  • Amish Experience Visit-In-Person Tour: $56
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Augustine $25
    Lancaster $11

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 Lancaster

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

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Augustine or Lancaster?

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

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 Lancaster in the Summer?

Both Lancaster and Saint Augustine during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Augustine because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

In July, Saint Augustine is generally a little warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Saint Augustine average around 82°F (28°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Augustine. In the summer, Saint Augustine often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. Saint Augustine gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Augustine. Saint Augustine usually gets more rain in July than Lancaster. Saint Augustine gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Augustine 82°F (28°C) 
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Lancaster in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Augustine and Lancaster. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Augustine this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint Augustine is much warmer than Lancaster in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Augustine averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Saint Augustine, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Augustine usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. Saint Augustine gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Augustine usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lancaster. Saint Augustine gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Saint Augustine is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Augustine 70°F (21°C) 
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Lancaster in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Augustine as well as Lancaster. Many travelers come to Saint Augustine for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lancaster in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lancaster can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saint Augustine is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Augustine in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Lancaster averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Saint Augustine often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Saint Augustine gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

Saint Augustine usually gets more rain in January than Lancaster. Saint Augustine gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Augustine 53°F (12°C) 
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Lancaster in the Spring?

Both Lancaster and Saint Augustine are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Augustine in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Saint Augustine is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Saint Augustine average around 68°F (20°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Lancaster. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Augustine. Saint Augustine usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during spring. Saint Augustine gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Augustine usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Saint Augustine gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Augustine.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Augustine 68°F (20°C) 
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine Lancaster
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)