A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beijing or Edinburgh?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Edinburgh can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a historic, massive, and jam-packed city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a ancient, charming, and character-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Beijing and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Edinburgh?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Beijing. While Beijing is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is more popular for its theatre productions, music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Beijing is known for its food and big city activities. Beijing is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Edinburgh is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle.

How is Beijing different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Edinburgh?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Beijing or Edinburgh.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Travelers visit Edinburgh from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Beijing is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Beijing is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Edinburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Edinburgh has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

The nightlife in Edinburgh has something for everybody. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Beijing is not a live music destination.

In Edinburgh you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Beijing is not a live music destination.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Edinburgh offers plenty to see. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Edinburgh?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Edinburgh and Beijing.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for Families?

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

Edinburgh is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Beijing and Edinburgh are great places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Many students visit Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Beijing can get you to some places easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Beijing or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Getting around Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Edinburgh?

In either Beijing or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Edinburgh because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Beijing 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Beijing or Edinburgh?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Edinburgh?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edinburgh has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Edinburgh?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edinburgh has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Edinburgh?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Edinburgh is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh than you might in Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Edinburgh?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Edinburgh, 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 Beijing or Edinburgh?

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 Beijing or Edinburgh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Edinburgh. The summer months attract visitors to Beijing 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 Edinburgh this time of year.

In July, Beijing is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 27°C (80°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the summer, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Edinburgh. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

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

Beijing is a little warmer than Edinburgh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Edinburgh in the Winter?

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

Edinburgh can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Beijing. In the winter, Beijing is much colder than Edinburgh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beijing in January average around -4°C (26°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 3°C (38°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Edinburgh. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Edinburgh in the Spring?

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

In April, Beijing is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (57°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Beijing