CharlestonvsNew Orleans
Can't decide between Charleston and New Orleans? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Charleston
Charleston is the jewel of the American South, a historic port city of antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and world-class cuisine. This charming city offers pastel-colored mansions, horse-drawn carriages, Lowcountry cooking, and nearby beautiful beaches and plantations.
Known for
New Orleans
New Orleans is America's most unique city—a heady mix of French, African, and Caribbean cultures expressed through jazz, Creole cuisine, and legendary celebrations. The Big Easy offers the French Quarter, Garden District mansions, voodoo history, and the world's best party: Mardi Gras.
Known for
Plan your Charleston or New Orleans trip
Create a personalized Charleston or New Orleans itinerary with AI. Just describe your travel style and we'll do the rest.
Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Charleston offers Rainbow Row, Historic District Walking, Magnolia Plantation
New Orleans offers French Quarter, Bourbon Street, Garden District
Food & Dining
Charleston is famous for its local dining scene
New Orleans is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Charleston offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
New Orleans offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
February to May (Mardi Gras to Jazz Fest)
Weather
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 12°C
Summer: 33°C, Winter: 14°C
Top Attractions in Charleston
- 1Rainbow Row
- 2Historic District Walking
- 3Magnolia Plantation
- 4French Quarter
- 5Lowcountry Cuisine
- 6Sullivan's Island Beach
Top Attractions in New Orleans
- 1French Quarter
- 2Bourbon Street
- 3Garden District
- 4St. Louis Cemetery
- 5Live Jazz on Frenchmen Street
- 6Beignets at Café Du Monde
Charleston is Popular With
New Orleans is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Charleston
- 1
The Unitarian Church Graveyard
A hauntingly beautiful, overgrown cemetery in the heart of downtown, shaded by massive live oaks and filled with ancient, weathered tombstones.
- 2
Philip Simmons' House & Garden
The former home and workshop of the legendary African American ironworker, whose intricate gates and scrollwork adorn much of historic Charleston.
Hidden Gems in New Orleans
- 1
The Music Box Village
An interactive, outdoor musical sculpture garden in the Bywater, where you can play giant, architecturally-designed instruments.
- 2
Algiers Point
A quiet, historic neighborhood across the Mississippi River, accessible by a short, cheap ferry ride from the French Quarter.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Charleston
Historic District / French Quarter
The heart and soul of old Charleston, a walkable labyrinth of cobblestone streets, historic churches, and hidden courtyards.
Upper King Street / Downtown
A dynamic and trendy corridor that transforms from a shopping district by day into Charleston's premier dining and nightlife destination after dark.
Top Areas in New Orleans
French Quarter
The historic heart of the city, famous for its vibrant energy, Spanish and French architecture, and non-stop activity.
Garden District
An elegant, residential area showcasing stunning 19th-century mansions, lush gardens, and quiet, oak-lined streets.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Charleston
Budget in New Orleans
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Charleston
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in New Orleans
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Charleston
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Charleston
Enter your departure city to see prices
Find cheap transport to New Orleans
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to New Orleans
Enter your departure city to see prices
Our Verdict
Both Charleston and New Orleans are incredible destinations. Charleston excels in Southern charm and antebellum architecture, while New Orleans stands out for jazz and Mardi Gras.
Ready to plan your adventure?