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

Should you visit Saint Augustine or Richmond?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Augustine or Richmond, 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Saint Augustine travel costs.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Richmond travel costs.

Saint Augustine and Richmond: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Augustine or Richmond?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Augustine than Richmond, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Augustine is more touristy than Richmond and is known for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States. Also, Saint Augustine is famous for the Colonial Quarter. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Saint Augustine different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Both Saint Augustine and Richmond 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 Richmond. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.


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

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Saint Augustine is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Saint Augustine is an experience not to be missed. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Saint Augustine or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

It's hard to distinguish whether Saint Augustine or Richmond has a better nightlife scene.

Saint Augustine has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are wineries, pubs, live music venues, and a number of activities that take advantage of the outdoor setting.

If you're looking for night time activities Richmond has a few options to choose from. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Saint Augustine or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Saint Augustine is notable for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

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.

Richmond is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Augustine or Richmond Better for its Old Town?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Saint Augustine is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Richmond does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Saint Augustine is revered around the world. 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.

Richmond does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Augustine or Richmond?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Saint Augustine is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Saint Augustine. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Saint Augustine or Richmond More Beautiful?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

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

Saint Augustine offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Colonial architecture and a charming atmosphere give this historic town a unique beauty.

Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Saint Augustine or Richmond Better for Families?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Saint Augustine is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint Augustine is known to be 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Saint Augustine or Richmond Better for Couples?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Saint Augustine is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Saint Augustine is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Saint Augustine or Richmond Better for Students?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Richmond is a nice place to visit for students. However, Saint Augustine is not popular with students.

Richmond is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Saint Augustine is not popular with students.


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

Saint Augustine
Richmond

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

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 Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Is Saint Augustine or Richmond a more walkable city?

Saint Augustine
Richmond

Saint Augustine is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Saint Augustine?

How long in Saint Augustine or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint Augustine or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saint Augustine than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Augustine, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

Families should spend more time in Saint Augustine than Richmond. 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 Richmond. 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 Richmond 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 Richmond? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Augustine 3-4 
    Richmond 1-2

One day in Saint Augustine or Richmond?

The city of Saint Augustine offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The growing destination of Richmond 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 Richmond?

Saint Augustine is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The city of Richmond 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 Richmond?

Saint Augustine 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.

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

A week in Saint Augustine or Richmond?

Saint Augustine is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Richmond. 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, Richmond 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
    Richmond Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Augustine $195
    Richmond $176

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Augustine is $195, while the average daily cost in Richmond is $176. 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 Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Augustine $86
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Augustine $172
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Saint Augustine and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Saint Augustine or Richmond? 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 Richmond


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 Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Augustine $39
    Richmond $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $175
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Augustine or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond 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
    Richmond $36

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 Richmond

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

  • Church Hill Food Tour: $89
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $89
  • The Carytown Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Church Hill Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond with Discover Richmond: $90
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $94
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Augustine $18
    Richmond $13

Tours and Activities in Saint Augustine

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

  • St Augustine Haunted History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Historic St Augustine Audio Self Guided App GPS Tour: $9.75
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of St Augustine's Twisted History: $15
  • St. Augustine City Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Haunting Hour Walking Ghost Tour: $18
  • Old Jail Museum Tour in St. Augustine: $18
  • Historic Museum Tour Ticket: $19
  • America‘s Oldest City: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of St Augustine: $20
  • Walking Guided History Tour of Old St. Augustine: $25
  • Castillo after Dark 1 Hour Guided Exterior Tour: $25
  • Guardian Angels of St. Augustine Walking Tour: $27
  • Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure of St. Augustine: $29

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • The Haunted History of Richmond tour: $25
  • Uncivil Wards History Tour: $25
  • The Church Hill tour with Historian Jane: $25
  • Shadows of Shockoe Ghost Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $27
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $27
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $27
  • Creepy Tales on Campus Ghost Tour: $27
  • Specters & Shades of Court End Ghost Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Augustine $25
    Richmond -

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: $36
  • Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine : $49
  • 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 Richmond

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

  • Richmond Virginia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $37
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $86
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Augustine or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Augustine. When comparing the sizes of Saint Augustine and Richmond, 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 Richmond?

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 Saint Augustine or Richmond in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Augustine and Richmond. Most visitors come to Saint Augustine for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Richmond because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Augustine is generally around the same temperature as Richmond. Daily temperatures in Saint Augustine average around 82°F (28°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In Saint Augustine, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Augustine usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond during summer. Saint Augustine gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

Richmond receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Augustine gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Augustine usually receives around the same amount of rain as Richmond. Saint Augustine gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Augustine 82°F (28°C) 
    Richmond 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Richmond in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Augustine as well as Richmond. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Augustine because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Richmond this time of year.

Saint Augustine is a little warmer than Richmond in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Augustine averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Augustine this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Augustine often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Saint Augustine gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun.

Saint Augustine usually gets less rain in October than Richmond. Saint Augustine gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Augustine.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Augustine 70°F (21°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Richmond in the Winter?

Both Richmond and Saint Augustine are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Augustine this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Richmond for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Richmond. In the winter, Saint Augustine is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Augustine in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Richmond averages at about 36°F (2°C).

Saint Augustine usually receives more sunshine than Richmond during winter. Saint Augustine gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Augustine usually receives around the same amount of rain as Richmond. Saint Augustine gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Augustine 53°F (12°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Richmond in the Spring?

Both Richmond and Saint Augustine during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Augustine for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Saint Augustine is generally a little warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Saint Augustine average around 68°F (20°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Augustine. In the spring, Saint Augustine often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Saint Augustine gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun.

Saint Augustine usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Richmond. Saint Augustine gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Saint Augustine is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Augustine 68°F (20°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)