A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Saint Andrews for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Saint Andrews?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Saint Andrews. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a historic, ancient, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a historic, charming, and quaint university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Saint Andrews: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Saint Andrews?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Saint Andrews are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Saint Andrews is known for its beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Athens is more touristy than Saint Andrews and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Saint Andrews is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Saint Andrews?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Saint Andrews?

Athens is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Saint Andrews? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Athens is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Saint Andrews has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for Nightlife?

Athens is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

Athens is a must-see party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews is a good destination for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Saint Andrews offers a nice beach destination. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for its Old Town?

Athens is terrific for its old town. However, Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews is a good destination for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Saint Andrews offers some nice hiking trails. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Saint Andrews?

Saint Andrews is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Andrews. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for Families?

Athens is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Athens is a very kid-friendly city. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly city. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Saint Andrews is a great university town if you're traveling as a couple. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is terrific for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for Students?

Saint Andrews is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Athens or Saint Andrews a more walkable city?

Athens is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Saint Andrews Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Andrews or Athens?

How long in Athens or Saint Andrews?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Saint Andrews to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Saint Andrews because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint Andrews.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Saint Andrews 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Saint Andrews?

Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Saint Andrews?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Saint Andrews 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.

Five days in Athens or Saint Andrews?

Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Andrews. 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.

A week in Athens or Saint Andrews?

Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Saint Andrews is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Saint Andrews?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Saint Andrews, 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 Athens or Saint Andrews?

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 Athens or Saint Andrews in the Summer?

Both Saint Andrews and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Athens is generally much warmer than Saint Andrews. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Saint Andrews fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Saint Andrews. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Andrews receives 184 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Saint Andrews. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Saint Andrews in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Saint Andrews. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Athens is much warmer than Saint Andrews in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Saint Andrews fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Saint Andrews during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Andrews receives 100 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Saint Andrews. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Saint Andrews in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Saint Andrews. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year.

It's quite cold in Saint Andrews in the winter. In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Saint Andrews. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Saint Andrews averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Saint Andrews. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Andrews receives 58 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Saint Andrews. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Saint Andrews in the Spring?

Both Saint Andrews and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Athens is generally much warmer than Saint Andrews. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Saint Andrews fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Saint Andrews during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Andrews receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Saint Andrews. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint Andrews and Athens