North Carolina Travel Guide

Geographical Position and Climate of North Carolina

North Carolina is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is bordered by Virginia to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Georgia and South Carolina to the south, and Tennessee to the west. The state’s geographical position allows for a varied landscape that includes coastal plains, the Piedmont, and the Appalachian Mountains.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit North Carolina largely depends on the activities you’re interested in and the region of the state you plan to explore. Here’s a general guide:

Spring (April to early June):

  • Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a beautiful time for outdoor activities.
  • The mountains are particularly scenic as the foliage returns.

Summer (late June to August):

  • Warm to hot weather, ideal for beach vacations along the coast.
  • Inland and mountain areas can be cooler and more comfortable for hiking.

Fall (September to November):

  • Cooler temperatures and spectacular fall foliage, especially in the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Great time for outdoor adventures without the summer heat.

Winter (December to March):

  • Skiing and winter sports in the mountainous regions.
  • Generally mild winters in the coastal and Piedmont areas, though it can be unpredictable.

Overall, spring and fall are often recommended as the best times to visit due to the moderate weather and lower tourist crowds compared to the summer months.

Travel to North Carolina

By Air:

  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is the state’s largest airport and a major hub for flights.
  • Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) also offers numerous domestic and limited international flights.
  • Other regional airports include Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) in Greensboro, Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), and Wilmington International Airport (ILM).

By Car:

  • Interstates such as I-40, I-85, and I-95 run through North Carolina, making it accessible by car from many parts of the country.

With Train:

  • Amtrak provides rail service with routes like the Carolinian, Piedmont, and Silver Service/Palmetto connecting to various cities within North Carolina and beyond.

By Bus:

  • Greyhound and other bus companies offer services to and from many North Carolina cities.

Places to visit

North Carolina map and flag

Important Information

Capital – Raleigh

Largest City – Charlotte

Territory – 139,391.0 km2

Population – 10,439,388

Time Zone – UTC-5 (Eastern)

Scroll to Top