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

Should you visit Washington or Charlotte?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Charlotte can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Washington travel costs.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Charlotte travel costs.

Washington and Charlotte: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Washington or Charlotte?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Charlotte, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Washington different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or Charlotte?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.


Is Washington or Charlotte Better for Theater?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is great for its shows and theatre. However, Charlotte is not a theatre destination.

Washington has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Charlotte is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Washington or Charlotte? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Washington or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is great for its evening party scene. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Washington for the nightlife scene. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.


Is Washington or Charlotte Better for Music?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is very good for its music scene. However, Charlotte is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Charlotte is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Charlotte Better for Hiking?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Charlotte?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is great for its shopping areas. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Charlotte is a great destination for shopping. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.


Is Washington or Charlotte More Beautiful?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Washington or Charlotte Better for Families?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Washington. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Washington or Charlotte Better for Couples?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.


Is Washington or Charlotte Better for Students?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Charlotte is a good city to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Is Washington or Charlotte Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Washington can take you anywhere. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Is Washington or Charlotte a more walkable city?

Washington
Charlotte

Washington is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.


For even more information, also check out Is Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Charlotte Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or Washington?

How long in Washington or Charlotte?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Washington and Charlotte. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Charlotte. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 1-3 days is enough time in Charlotte.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington than Charlotte 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 Washington.


  • How many days in Washington or Charlotte? Ideal Length of Stay
    Washington 3-7 
    Charlotte 1-3

One day in Washington or Charlotte?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the growing city of Charlotte, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charlotte, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Charlotte?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Charlotte, 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.

Five days in Washington or Charlotte?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Charlotte, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Washington or Charlotte?

Washington is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Washington, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Charlotte 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Charlotte or Washington?

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

  • Washington Prices
    USA Prices
    Charlotte Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Washington $226
    Charlotte $225

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $226, while the average daily cost in Charlotte is $225. 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 Washington and Charlotte in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Charlotte $118
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Charlotte $236
Compare Hotels in Washington and Charlotte

Looking for a hotel in Washington or Charlotte? 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 Washington


Hotels in Charlotte


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Charlotte $33
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Washington DC to Dulles or vice versa : $300
  • Private Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) transfer Round trip: $300
  • Nation’s Capital Guided Tours and Airport Transfers : $280
  • Washington Airport (IAD) to Washington RoundTrip Private Transfer: $262
  • Private Transfer to or from Springfield VA and Dulles Airport: $240
  • Private Transfer to or from Herndon and Ronald Reagan National Airport: $235
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Luxury Car: $232
  • Private transfer to or form Vienna and Dulles International Airport: $230
  • Private Transfer To or From Lorton and Ronald Reagan National Airport: $205
  • Private transfer to or from Herndon and Dulles International Airport: $205
  • Arrival Private Transfer: National Airport DCA to Washington in Luxury Car: $203
  • Arrival Transfer from Dulles Airport IAD to Washington DC by SUV: $188

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Charlotte?

Prices for flights to both Charlotte and Washington 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
    Washington $66
    Charlotte $80
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • DC: City Cruises Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $60
  • DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $71
  • Little Ethiopia Food Tour: $71
  • Adams Morgan Food Tour: $78
  • Dupont Circle Food Tour: $84
  • Washington D.C: Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $95
  • DC: Eastern Market Eats Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $99
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $104
  • City Cruises Washington DC: Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
  • City Cruises Washington DC: Premier Dinner Cruise: $127
  • Eastern Market Neighborhood Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $129
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129

Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Charlotte $43

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • Run the Washington DC Monuments with a Local: Group Running Tour: $53
  • See DC In A Day: Guided Small Group Ultimate Day Tour : $99
  • "Drunk Shakespeare" Live Show Ticket at DC's Sage Theatre: $49
  • 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill: $52
  • 2-Day Best of Niagara Falls (US Side) Tour from Washington D.C.: $49
  • 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour : $75
  • 2-Hour National Mall Walking Tour from Washington DC: $25
  • 3-Hour Small Group Memorial Tour in Washington, D.C.: $59
  • 4-Hr DC Monuments Small Group Sightseeing Guided Tour: $79
  • Admission & Guided Tour of Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria: $99
  • African American Tour Of Annapolis From Washington DC: $180
  • Air & Space Museum Semi-Private Tour with Reserved Tickets: $103

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • Chains, Coffins, & Curses: Charlottesville Ghost Tours: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Charlotte $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $56
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Washington and Charlotte, we can see that Washington 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 Washington Expensive? and Is Charlotte Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Washington or Charlotte?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Charlotte, 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 Washington or Charlotte?

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 Washington or Charlotte in the Summer?

Both Charlotte and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year.

In July, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Charlotte. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Washington 79°F (26°C) 
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Washington or Charlotte in the Autumn?

Both Charlotte and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Washington is cooler than Charlotte in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Washington often gets less sunshine than Charlotte. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Charlotte. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Washington 60°F (15°C) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Washington or Charlotte in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Charlotte. Many travelers come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Charlotte in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Washington. In the winter, Washington is much colder than Charlotte. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Charlotte averages at about 42°F (6°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Charlotte during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Charlotte. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Washington 35°F (1°C) 
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Washington or Charlotte in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Charlotte. Many visitors come to Washington in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Charlotte for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Washington is generally cooler than Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the spring, Washington often gets less sunshine than Charlotte. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in April than Charlotte. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Washington 56°F (14°C) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Charlotte and Washington

Washington Charlotte
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)