A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Charleston for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Sarasota or Charleston?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Sarasota and Charleston. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a entertaining, underrated, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sarasota travel costs.

Charleston

Charleston is a southern, quaint, and historic coastal town. The beauty of Charleston is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches. See Charleston travel costs.

Sarasota and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Charleston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charleston than Sarasota, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Charleston is more popular for its food, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Sarasota is known for its museums and attractions. Sarasota is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Charleston is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also home to The Waterfront Park.

How is Sarasota different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Charleston?

Sarasota is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sarasota can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Is the Food Better in Sarasota or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Charleston, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Sarasota and Charleston.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Sarasota is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Sarasota is not a live music destination.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for Resorts?

There are good resorts to choose from in both Sarasota and Charleston.

With a selection of resorts, Sarasota makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Charleston has a few great resort options. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston is great for the beach. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Many people visit Charleston for it's beautiful beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is renowned for its old town. However, Sarasota does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Sarasota does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Charleston?

Charleston is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Charleston draws large crowds to its stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Many visitors go to Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Is Sarasota or Charleston More Beautiful?

Charleston is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Charleston is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The charming history, beautiful architecture, and historic churches all make this city one of the most beautiful in the southern United States.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for Families?

Sarasota is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Sarasota is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Charleston is a family-friendly city. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Charleston is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarasota is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Sarasota is not popular with students.

Is Sarasota or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sarasota and Charleston both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Sarasota or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is great for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Charleston is a very walkable coastal town. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Charleston?

Both Sarasota and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Sarasota. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Sarasota 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 Charleston.

One day in Sarasota or Charleston?

With museums and nightlife around the underrated city of Sarasota, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful coastal town of Charleston offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Sarasota or Charleston?

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

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Charleston?

Sarasota, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Charleston?

Sarasota is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 81% larger than the population of Sarasota. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota and Charleston, 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 Sarasota or Charleston?

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 Sarasota or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Sarasota during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sarasota in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Sarasota is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sarasota in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Charleston averages at about 82°F (28°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the summer, Sarasota often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than Charleston. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Charleston. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Charleston because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 76°F (24°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Charleston. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.

Should I visit Sarasota or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Charleston. The winter months attract visitors to Sarasota because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

Sarasota is much warmer than Charleston in the winter. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the winter, Sarasota often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Sarasota is a little warmer than Charleston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sarasota in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Charleston averages at about 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during spring. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Charleston. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Sarasota