A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Belfast vs. Aberdeen for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Belfast or Aberdeen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Aberdeen, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Belfast

Belfast is a affordable, under-rated, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and shopping.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a historic, cultural, and architectural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Belfast and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Belfast or Aberdeen?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Aberdeen than Belfast. While Belfast is larger than Aberdeen, Aberdeen has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Belfast is popular for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles". Aberdeen is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also home to St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Belfast different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Belfast or Aberdeen?

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Aberdeen can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Aberdeen is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Aberdeen offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Both Belfast and Aberdeen are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

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 Belfast or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Aberdeen to see the historical old town. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Aberdeen?

Both Belfast and Aberdeen are good shopping destinations.

Belfast is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

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 Belfast or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Belfast or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Aberdeen is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Aberdeen is a nice destination for couples. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Aberdeen Better for Students?

Belfast and Aberdeen are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Belfast is a good city to visit for students. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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

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

Aberdeen is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Aberdeen has a few 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Aberdeen?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aberdeen than Belfast 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 Aberdeen.

One day in Belfast or Aberdeen?

The city of Belfast offers shopping and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Aberdeen, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Belfast or Aberdeen?

Belfast 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 Belfast, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Aberdeen, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Aberdeen has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Aberdeen?

Belfast 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.

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belfast or Aberdeen?

Belfast is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 3-Day Tours from London.

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

Which is Bigger, Belfast or Aberdeen?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Belfast and Aberdeen, 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 Belfast or Aberdeen?

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 Belfast or Aberdeen in the Summer?

Both Aberdeen and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Belfast in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Belfast is around the same temperature as Aberdeen in the summer. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Belfast usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives more rain than Aberdeen. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Belfast or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

Both Aberdeen and Belfast during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Belfast for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Belfast is around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Belfast in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Belfast often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in October than Aberdeen. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or Aberdeen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Aberdeen. The winter months attract visitors to Belfast because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Aberdeen in the winter. The weather in Belfast can be very cold. In January, Belfast is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 4°C (39°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Belfast usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aberdeen. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Belfast or Aberdeen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Aberdeen. The activities around the city are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city.

Belfast is a little warmer than Aberdeen in the spring. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Belfast often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Aberdeen. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Belfast