A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aalborg vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Old Town, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Aalborg or Edinburgh?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Aalborg and Edinburgh. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a charming, local, and historic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a charming, character-filled, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for live music, shopping, and museums.

Aalborg and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aalborg or Edinburgh?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Aalborg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Aalborg attracts visitors for its food and small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Aalborg and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle. Aalborg is famous for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

How is Aalborg different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edinburgh and Aalborg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aalborg or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Edinburgh that are not to be missed. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Aalborg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a great destination for theatre. However, Aalborg is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Aalborg is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Aalborg or Edinburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aalborg is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Aalborg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Aalborg or Edinburgh has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aalborg know how to have a good time. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

The nightlife in Edinburgh has something for everybody. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is renowned for live music. However, Aalborg is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is a world class music destination. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Aalborg is not a live music destination.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Aalborg or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a great destination for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Edinburgh is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Edinburgh is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Aalborg offers lots of family activities. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is a great destination for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Edinburgh is a great destination for students. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

It's common for students to visit Aalborg. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aalborg and Edinburgh.

You'll find some public transit in Aalborg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system around town.

While Edinburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Aalborg or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is renowned for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Aalborg Worth Visiting? and Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Aalborg?

How long in Aalborg or Edinburgh?

In either Aalborg or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than Aalborg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aalborg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

Couples should spend more time in Edinburgh than Aalborg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Edinburgh that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Aalborg 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Aalborg or Edinburgh?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Aalborg. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Aalborg or Edinburgh?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Aalborg. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edinburgh has to offer.

Five days in Aalborg or Edinburgh?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local town of Aalborg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edinburgh has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Aalborg or Edinburgh?

Aalborg is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

When comparing the travel costs between Aalborg and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Aalborg or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Aalborg. When comparing the sizes of Aalborg and Edinburgh, 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 Aalborg or Edinburgh?

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 Aalborg or Edinburgh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aalborg as well as Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Aalborg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aalborg is around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aalborg in July average around 16°C (61°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Aalborg usually gets more rain in July than Edinburgh. Aalborg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aalborg or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Aalborg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In October, Aalborg is generally around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 9°C (48°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In October, Aalborg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Edinburgh. Aalborg gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Aalborg or Edinburgh in the Winter?

Both Edinburgh and Aalborg during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Edinburgh. It's quite cold in Aalborg in the winter. Aalborg is much colder than Edinburgh in the winter. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in January than Edinburgh. Aalborg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aalborg or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aalborg and Edinburgh. Many travelers come to Aalborg for the small town charm. Furthermore, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aalborg is cooler than Edinburgh. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aalborg in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In April, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Aalborg gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Aalborg