A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Aberdeen or Paris?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Paris? 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Aberdeen and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Aberdeen, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its museums & sights, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aberdeen is known for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Aberdeen and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Aberdeen is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Aberdeen different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Many visitors head to Aberdeen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Is Aberdeen or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is an unbeatable place for theatre. However, Aberdeen is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Aberdeen is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Paris is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris Better for Music?

Paris is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Aberdeen is not a live music destination.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Aberdeen is not a live music destination.

Is Aberdeen or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen is great for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Paris?

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

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Aberdeen does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination during the Christmas season. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Aberdeen does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Aberdeen or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Aberdeen is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Aberdeen or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Paris Better for Students?

Paris is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

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

Paris 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 Paris can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

Aberdeen and Paris both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Paris?

Both Aberdeen and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Aberdeen. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

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

One day in Aberdeen or Paris?

In Aberdeen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic 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.

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

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.

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Paris?

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.

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Aberdeen or Paris?

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.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Paris. The summer months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

Aberdeen is cooler than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. In the summer, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Paris. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Paris. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Aberdeen is cooler than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aberdeen in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Paris during autumn. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Paris. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Aberdeen during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Aberdeen. In January, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 3°C (38°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Paris. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Paris in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Paris. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Aberdeen is much colder than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Paris during spring. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Aberdeen