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

Should you visit Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Dusseldorf? 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 architectural, authentic, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a historic, fun-filled, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen and Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

Both Dusseldorf and Aberdeen have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Aberdeen is more popular for its museums, while Dusseldorf is known for its food. Aberdeen is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Dusseldorf is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany.

How is Aberdeen different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Aberdeen is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Aberdeen. 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.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.


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

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dusseldorf makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Aberdeen or Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Both Aberdeen and Dusseldorf are good 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 Dusseldorf. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Aberdeen or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both Aberdeen and Dusseldorf.

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 Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.


Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Both Aberdeen and Dusseldorf are good shopping destinations.

Aberdeen is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Aberdeen or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aberdeen or Dusseldorf.

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, Dusseldorf is very family-friendly. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Aberdeen or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Dusseldorf is a very popular place to visit for couples. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.


Is Aberdeen or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Aberdeen is a good destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is an unbeatable 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.

Visitors in Dusseldorf can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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 Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Dusseldorf

Aberdeen and Dusseldorf both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Dusseldorf is a very walkable city. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aberdeen and Dusseldorf. In our opinion, Dusseldorf has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dusseldorf than Aberdeen. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf.


  • How many days in Aberdeen or Dusseldorf? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aberdeen 2-3 
    Dusseldorf 2-3

One day in Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

With museums and nightlife around the architectural city of Aberdeen, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Dusseldorf offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Aberdeen, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

Aberdeen, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf?

Aberdeen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dusseldorf 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dusseldorf or Aberdeen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aberdeen is £121, while the average daily cost in Dusseldorf is £158. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aberdeen and Dusseldorf in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Dusseldorf £81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Dusseldorf £162
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Dusseldorf

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Dusseldorf? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aberdeen


Hotels in Dusseldorf


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aberdeen Hotel Prices and Dusseldorf Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Dusseldorf £1.39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

Prices for flights to both Dusseldorf and Aberdeen change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aberdeen £35
    Dusseldorf £65

Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    £1.70
  • Nutella
    £0.86
  • Yogurt
    £0.86

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aberdeen £19
    Dusseldorf £21

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Aberdeen are as follows:

  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $64
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $65
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $67

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

Here are a few actual costs in Dusseldorf for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Night watchman tour: $22
  • Guided Walking Tour in Dusseldorf: $22
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Düsseldorf in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Dusseldorf Old Town and Altbier Tour: $25
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Dusseldorf £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401

Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aberdeen and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Dusseldorf, 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 Dusseldorf?

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 Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Dusseldorf. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Aberdeen is cooler than Dusseldorf in the summer. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Dusseldorf during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Dusseldorf. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Dusseldorf. The autumn months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

In the autumn, Aberdeen is cooler than Dusseldorf. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aberdeen in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Dusseldorf. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in October than Dusseldorf. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dusseldorf. It's quite cold in Aberdeen in the winter. In January, Aberdeen is generally a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 3°C (38°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Aberdeen usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

Both Dusseldorf and Aberdeen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the spring for the activities around the city.

Aberdeen is cooler than Dusseldorf in the spring. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Aberdeen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Dusseldorf. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F) 
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Dusseldorf
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)


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