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

Should you visit Aberdeen or Heidelberg?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Heidelberg? 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 authentic, historic, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a character-filled, historic, and quaint town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Heidelberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Aberdeen than Heidelberg. Aberdeen is bigger than Heidelberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Aberdeen is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Heidelberg is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is more touristy than Aberdeen and is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Aberdeen is well known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Also, Aberdeen is famous for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Aberdeen different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Aberdeen is a great city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Heidelberg 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, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Heidelberg offers plenty to do in the evening. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is Aberdeen or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Heidelberg offers plenty to see. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Heidelberg?

Both Aberdeen and Heidelberg are notable 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 Heidelberg. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Aberdeen or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Aberdeen is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Aberdeen. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Aberdeen or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

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 Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Aberdeen and Heidelberg are both notable destinations for students and younger travelers.

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

Plenty of students visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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 Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Aberdeen and Heidelberg both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Heidelberg is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Heidelberg?

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

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

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

One day in Aberdeen or Heidelberg?

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 beautiful town of Heidelberg offers nightlife and food. 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 Heidelberg?

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.

Heidelberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Heidelberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Heidelberg?

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.

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg?

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.

Heidelberg 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 town 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Aberdeen and Heidelberg, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Aberdeen Expensive? and Is Heidelberg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Heidelberg?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg?

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 Aberdeen or Heidelberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Heidelberg. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 14°C (58°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. In the summer, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Heidelberg. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets less rain in July than Heidelberg. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

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

Aberdeen is cooler than Heidelberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Heidelberg during autumn. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Heidelberg. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Heidelberg in the Winter?

Both Heidelberg and Aberdeen during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Aberdeen often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in January than Heidelberg. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Heidelberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Heidelberg. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 7°C (44°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Heidelberg during spring. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Heidelberg. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Aberdeen