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

Should you visit Washington or Charlottesville?

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 Charlottesville can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Washington travel costs.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a proud, traditional, and young university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Charlottesville is a gorgeous place to visit. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and museums. See Charlottesville travel costs.

Washington and Charlottesville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Charlottesville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Charlottesville are popular destinations, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Charlottesville attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Washington is more touristy than Charlottesville 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. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Charlottesville is famous for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Washington different from Charlottesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Washington are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlottesville. A highlight of a trip to the area is a visit to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The city is also famously home to the beautiful University of Virginia, which has a manicured and beautiful campus. History buffs will also appreciate visiting the Civil War Sites that are nearby as well.

Is Washington or Charlottesville Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for its theatre productions. However, Charlottesville is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. 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.

Charlottesville is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Charlottesville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Charlottesville may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Head to the Historic Downtown Mall to enjoy an outdoor meal at a top rated restaurant. There are also restaurants that cater specifically to students and offer affordable and quick meals.

Is Washington or Charlottesville Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Washington has something for everybody. 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 Charlottesville. Charlottesville is a university town with an active nightlife. The best areas for nightlife are found around the Downtown Mall, Belmont neighborhood, the Corner, and University Ave west near the mall. Even though there are a number of activities to enjoy at night, this is still a small town and the nightlife scene reflects that.

Is Washington or Charlottesville Better for Music?

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

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Charlottesville is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Charlottesville Better for its Old Town?

Charlottesville is very good for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

Charlottesville is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Charlottesville Better for Hiking?

Charlottesville is very good for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many people include a hike when visiting Charlottesville. Just outside of town there are plenty of hiking opportunities including in and around Shenandoah National Park. Hiking is at its best during the fall season when the leaves are changing.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Charlottesville?

Washington is a great city for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Washington is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Washington or Charlottesville More Beautiful?

Washington is a great city for its scenery and beauty. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Charlottesville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by the Shenandoah Mountains, this is a beautiful town and home to the beautiful University of Virginia.

Is Washington or Charlottesville Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Washington is very family-friendly. 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.

Charlottesville is a family-friendly place to visit. Wandering the campus of UVA, picking fruit at Carter Mountain Orchard or exploring the downtown mall, including the Virginia Discovery Museum are all activities that everyone can enjoy. There are also great hiking trails just outside of town.

Is Washington or Charlottesville Better for Couples?

Washington is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for couples.

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.

Charlottesville is a good city for couples to visit. The UVA campus is beautiful to explore, as is Monticello. The Downtown Mall has many great restaurants and activities that make for a nice date night and during the day, there's also beautiful hikes nearby that are at their peak during the fall season.

Is Washington or Charlottesville Better for Students?

For students, both Washington and Charlottesville are first-rate places to visit.

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.

Charlottesville is a great destination for students. The town is home to the beautiful University of Virginia and it's a popular destination for international students as well as local students. Much of the town is focused around student life, and the city's proximity to Washington, DC means it has access to global opportunities.

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

Washington is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Charlottesville is not known 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Charlottesville. There is a bus system that runs between campus, downtown, and several neighborhoods in Charlottesville.

Is Washington or Charlottesville a more walkable city?

Washington is terrific for its high level of walkability. However, Charlottesville is not known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Charlottesville is generally not very walkable. While the University of Virginia campus and the Downtown Mall are both very walkable, most of the town is not.

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

Should I spend more time in Charlottesville or Washington?

How long in Washington or Charlottesville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Washington and Charlottesville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Charlottesville. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-3 days is enough time in Charlottesville.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Charlottesville. 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 Charlottesville. 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 Charlottesville 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.

One day in Washington or Charlottesville?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Charlottesville might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

A weekend in Washington or Charlottesville?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Even though Charlottesville is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this university town.

Five days in Washington or Charlottesville?

Washington is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Charlottesville, a popular university town, 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 Charlottesville?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Charlottesville 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Charlottesville?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Charlottesville. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Charlottesville, 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 Charlottesville?

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 Charlottesville in the Summer?

Both Charlottesville and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Charlottesville for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Washington is around the same temperature as Charlottesville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlottesville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Charlottesville during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Charlottesville. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Charlottesville in the Autumn?

Both Charlottesville and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Charlottesville because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Charlottesville, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Washington often gets less sunshine than Charlottesville. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 221 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in October than Charlottesville. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Charlottesville in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Charlottesville. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year.

It's quite cold in Charlottesville in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. Washington is much colder than Charlottesville in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Charlottesville during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Charlottesville. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Charlottesville in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Charlottesville. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Charlottesville for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Washington is around the same temperature as Charlottesville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the spring, Washington often gets less sunshine than Charlottesville. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 265 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Charlottesville. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charlottesville and Washington