Map of Charlottesville, United States

🏞️ What to do in Charlottesville

Charlottesville offers a diverse range of activities that cater to every interest, from outdoor adventures to cultural explorations. Discover historic sites, scenic landscapes, and vibrant local attractions that make Charlottesville a must-visit destination!

• Best Budget Activity in Charlottesville:

  Carter Mountain Orchard: Enjoy picking your own fruit, stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and delicious homemade treats at an affordable price.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Charlottesville:

  Monticello: Step back in time at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, explore the beautiful gardens, and learn about the history of one of America's founding fathers.

• Best Luxury Activity in Charlottesville:

  Hot Air Balloon Ride over Charlottesville: Soar above the picturesque countryside in a hot air balloon, marvel at the panoramic views, and create unforgettable memories.

🍽️ Where to eat in Charlottesville

In Charlottesville, prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure filled with locally sourced ingredients, farm-to-table delights, and a vibrant dining scene. Don’t miss trying the famous Virginia ham, delicious apple cider donuts, and mouth-watering farm-fresh produce!

• Best Budget Restaurant in Charlottesville:

  The Pigeon Hole•$:

  Cuisine specialty: Comfort classics with a modern twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Charlottesville:

  Bizou•$$:

  Cuisine specialty: French-inspired American cuisine

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Charlottesville:

  The Alley Light•$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Exquisite French fare with a contemporary touch

• Best Budget Bar in Charlottesville:

  The Local•$:

  Craft beer selection

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Charlottesville:

  Tavola•$$:

  Expertly crafted cocktails

• Best Luxury Bar in Charlottesville:

  C&O Restaurant•$$$:

  Fine wines and artisanal cocktails

🏰 What to see in Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, architectural wonders, and natural beauty waiting to be explored. From stately estates to picturesque gardens, immerse yourself in the rich history and charm of this vibrant city.

• Monticello:

  Visit the former home of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, and admire the stunning architecture and expansive grounds of this iconic estate.

• University of Virginia:

  Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site designed by Thomas Jefferson, featuring the historic Rotunda, picturesque gardens, and a wealth of academic and cultural resources.

• Carter Mountain Orchard:

  Experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains while picking your own fruit, savoring homemade goodies, and enjoying panoramic views at this charming orchard.

• Downtown Mall:

  Stroll along the pedestrian-friendly Downtown Mall, lined with boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and live entertainment venues, offering a vibrant mix of culture and entertainment.

• Ash Lawn-Highland:

  Step into the past at the former home of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States, and explore the historic house, gardens, and scenic grounds of this beautiful estate.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Charlottesville

Charlottesville offers a diverse shopping scene, from bustling markets to charming boutiques, making it a delightful destination for retail therapy. Discover unique finds, local treasures, and stylish goods at the city's top shopping spots.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Charlottesville:

  Charlottesville City Market: Explore the vibrant outdoor market featuring local vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal crafts, handmade goods, and more at budget-friendly prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Charlottesville:

  Barracks Road Shopping Center: Shop at this upscale outdoor mall offering a mix of popular brands, specialty stores, cozy cafes, and diverse dining options for a mid-range shopping experience.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Charlottesville:

  The Shops at Stonefield: Indulge in luxury shopping at this upscale lifestyle center showcasing high-end fashion brands, upscale boutiques, fine dining options, and premium entertainment venues.

🚍 Getting Around Charlottesville

• Public Transport

  Charlottesville offers a convenient public transportation system primarily operated by Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT). The bus service covers various routes throughout the city and is an affordable way to get around. The fare for a single ride is $1.50, with discounts available for seniors and students. Buses run from early morning until late evening, providing reliable service for commuters and tourists alike.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Charlottesville Amtrak Station: Located in downtown Charlottesville, the Amtrak station offers train services connecting to major cities like Washington D.C. and New York. - Greyhound Bus Terminal: Situated near the University of Virginia campus, the Greyhound terminal provides intercity bus services to destinations across the country. - Charlottesville Albemarle Airport: For those flying into or out of Charlottesville, the airport offers domestic flights and car rental services for convenient onward travel.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate in Charlottesville, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Prices for car rentals start at around $30 per day, offering flexibility for exploring the city and nearby attractions. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: Tourists can enjoy cycling around Charlottesville by renting bikes from local shops like Blue Wheel Bicycles and Conte's Bike Shop. Rates typically range from $15 to $30 per day, with options for guided tours and bike accessories available.