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

Should you visit Aberdeen or Basel?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Basel? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a historic, cultural, and architectural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Basel

Basel is a beautiful, vibrant, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen and Basel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Basel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Aberdeen and Basel are about the same size, Aberdeen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aberdeen is very popular for its big city activities, while Basel attracts visitors for its shopping and impressive beauty. Aberdeen is famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also well known for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Aberdeen different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Basel?

Both Aberdeen and Basel have very good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Aberdeen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Many visitors head to Basel specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Basel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Aberdeen and Basel can be an enjoyable experience.

Aberdeen offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Basel has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Aberdeen or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Both Aberdeen and Basel are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Aberdeen or Basel Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Aberdeen and Basel.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Basel?

Basel is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Basel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Is Aberdeen or Basel Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aberdeen or Basel.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Basel is very family-friendly. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

Is Aberdeen or Basel Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Aberdeen and Basel make for a nice place to visit.

Aberdeen is a nice destination for couples. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Basel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Aberdeen or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Basel is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Basel Better for Students?

Basel is a well-known place for students. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Basel is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Is Aberdeen or Basel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Basel is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Basel is fairly effecient and thorough. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Aberdeen has some public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Is Aberdeen or Basel a more walkable city?

Basel is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Basel on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Aberdeen is a very walkable city. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aberdeen and Basel. In our opinion, Basel has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Basel than Aberdeen. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel than Aberdeen 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 Basel.

One day in Aberdeen or Basel?

In Aberdeen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this architectural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful city of Basel offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Basel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Basel, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Basel?

Aberdeen is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Aberdeen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Basel is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Aberdeen or Basel?

You'll find food and shopping around the architectural destination of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Basel is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aberdeen and Basel, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Aberdeen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aberdeen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aberdeen 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel than you might in Aberdeen.

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

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Basel?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Basel, 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 Aberdeen or Basel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Basel in the Summer?

Both Basel and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Basel in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aberdeen is much colder than Basel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aberdeen in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Basel averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Basel. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Basel during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Basel. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Basel in the Autumn?

Both Basel and Aberdeen during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Basel for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Basel. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 9°C (49°F), and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Basel. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in October than Basel. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Basel in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Basel. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Basel because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Basel can be very cold. Aberdeen can be very cold during winter. Aberdeen is around the same temperature as Basel in the winter. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Basel during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Basel. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Basel in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Basel. The spring months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

In the spring, Aberdeen is much colder than Basel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aberdeen in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Basel averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Aberdeen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Basel. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets less rain in April than Basel. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Basel and Aberdeen