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

Should you visit Washington or Williamsburg?

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

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international 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. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Washington travel costs.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a well-preserved, historic, and charming town. Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Williamsburg travel costs.

Washington and Williamsburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Williamsburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Williamsburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Williamsburg is more popular for its historical sights. Washington is well 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. Williamsburg is well known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments.

How is Washington different from Williamsburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Washington on the map. 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.

Williamsburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Is Washington or Williamsburg Better for Theater?

Washington is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Williamsburg. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

Is Washington or Williamsburg Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Washington know how to have a good time. 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.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Washington or Williamsburg Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for its music scene. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Williamsburg Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Williamsburg is revered around the world. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Williamsburg Better for Hiking?

Washington is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Williamsburg?

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Williamsburg both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Williamsburg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

Is Washington or Williamsburg More Beautiful?

Washington is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

Is Washington or Williamsburg Better for Families?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is one of the most popular family destinations. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Is Washington or Williamsburg Better for Couples?

Both Washington and Williamsburg are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Williamsburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Is Washington or Williamsburg Better for Students?

For students, both Washington and Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is a great destination for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Is Washington or Williamsburg a more walkable city?

Washington is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. 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.

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable city. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Williamsburg or Washington?

How long in Washington or Williamsburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Washington or Williamsburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Washington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-4 days is enough time in Williamsburg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Washington than Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and food around the quaint town of Williamsburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Williamsburg?

Washington is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With food and shopping around the destination of Williamsburg, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Washington or Williamsburg?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Williamsburg, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Williamsburg?

Washington is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg, we can see that Washington is more expensive. And not only is Williamsburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Williamsburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Williamsburg?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Williamsburg, 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 Williamsburg?

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 Washington or Williamsburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Washington as well as Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the summer, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Williamsburg. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 279 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Williamsburg. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Williamsburg. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Williamsburg in the Autumn?

Both Williamsburg and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Williamsburg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Washington is around the same temperature as Williamsburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Williamsburg fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Williamsburg. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Williamsburg during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Williamsburg. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Williamsburg in the Winter?

Both Williamsburg and Washington during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Williamsburg in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. In the winter, Washington is much colder than Williamsburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Williamsburg averages at about 38°F (4°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Williamsburg. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 168 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in January than Williamsburg. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Williamsburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Williamsburg. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Williamsburg for the natural beauty.

In April, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Williamsburg this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Williamsburg during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Williamsburg. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Williamsburg and Washington