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

Should you visit Aberdeen or Geneva?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Geneva? 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a diverse, international, and professional city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Geneva?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Geneva. Although Aberdeen and Geneva are about the same size, Geneva has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Geneva is more popular for its food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aberdeen is known for its historical sights. Aberdeen is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Aberdeen different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Aberdeen and Geneva have superb 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 Geneva specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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

Geneva 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, Geneva makes for a great culinary experience. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Both Aberdeen and Geneva 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 Geneva. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Aberdeen or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Geneva?

Geneva is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Geneva is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva Better for Families?

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

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.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Aberdeen or Geneva Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Aberdeen and Geneva make for a good 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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Aberdeen or Geneva Better for Students?

Geneva 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.

Geneva is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

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 Geneva Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Geneva 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 Geneva can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva a more walkable city?

Aberdeen and Geneva both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Geneva?

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

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

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

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

One day in Aberdeen or Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Geneva is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Geneva?

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Geneva 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Geneva, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Geneva?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Geneva is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 Geneva?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Aberdeen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Geneva is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Geneva?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 0% larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Geneva, 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 Geneva?

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 Geneva in the Summer?

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

Aberdeen is much colder than Geneva in the summer. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Geneva fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Geneva this time of the year. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Geneva. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Geneva in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Geneva. 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, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Geneva this time of year.

In the autumn, Aberdeen is cooler than Geneva. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aberdeen in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Geneva averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Geneva. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Geneva in the Winter?

Both Geneva 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 Geneva for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Geneva. It's quite cold in Aberdeen in the winter. In January, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 3°C (38°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Geneva. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Geneva in the Spring?

Both Geneva 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 Geneva in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Aberdeen is much colder than Geneva in the spring. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Geneva fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets less rain in April than Geneva. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Geneva and Aberdeen