A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Birmingham vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Birmingham and Cairngorms National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Birmingham

Birmingham is a historic, vibrant, and fun-filled city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Birmingham and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Birmingham than Cairngorms National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Birmingham is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Cairngorms National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Birmingham and is known for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Birmingham is well known for its strong musical routes and its very livable atmosphere. Also, Birmingham is famous for Victoria Square.

How is Birmingham different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Birmingham is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Birmingham specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Museum & Art Gallery, Thinktank, and St. Philip's Cathedral.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Theater?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Birmingham is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a theatre destination.

Birmingham has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The impressive theater scene includes Broadway shows and musicals. Birmingham Hippodrome is a major theater in town.

Cairngorms National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Birmingham and Cairngorms National Park can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Birmingham. Food reviews are mixed around town. The city has its share of award-winning restaurants, but there are also popular dishes that are more of an acquired taste. Local flavors include pork scratching, Birmingham soup, and brummie bacon cakes.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cairngorms National Park. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Birmingham is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Birmingham has a large number of nightlife venues. With tons of students and young people looking to party, there is plenty to do in the evening. You'll find no shortage of pubs, clubs, and music venues around town.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Music?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Birmingham is renowned for its music scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a live music destination.

Birmingham has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has long been a haven for musical creativity, and its influence over the global music scene is apparent. Popular music venues around town include Ghetto Golf, Digbeth Dining Club, and the Sunflower Lounge.

Cairngorms National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is great for hiking. However, Birmingham is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Birmingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Birmingham is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Birmingham. The city offers everything from large department stores to smaller local shops. There are several good shopping streets around town as well as large markets and even a jewelry quarter.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park.

Birmingham is a very family-friendly destination. The city has put effort into making sure there are plenty of family-friendly activities around. You can visit a chocolate factory, explore an aquarium, enjoy an animal safari, or explore one of the hands-on museums.

Cairngorms National Park is a very kid-friendly city. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Both Birmingham and Cairngorms National Park are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Birmingham is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic activities around town include taking a beautiful stroll through town, wandering around a park or garden, or seeing the ballet.

Cairngorms National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Birmingham is not a good destination for backpackers.

Cairngorms National Park is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Birmingham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there's at least one affordable hostel in town.


Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Birmingham is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Birmingham. With world class academic institutions and a very diverse and international population, this is a popular place for international students to study.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Birmingham is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Birmingham has some public transit options. There is a reasonably comprehensive bus system.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Birmingham
Cairngorms National Park

Birmingham is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Birmingham is a very walkable destination. Many parts of the city are very walkable.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Birmingham Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Birmingham?

How long in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Birmingham has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Birmingham than Cairngorms National Park. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Birmingham, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Birmingham than Cairngorms National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Birmingham that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Birmingham than Cairngorms National Park 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 Birmingham.


  • How many days in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Birmingham 1-5 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

With live music and food around the historic city of Birmingham, there's plenty to do. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food around the beautiful national park of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the bustling destination of Birmingham, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With food around the destination of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the bustling city of Birmingham, there's plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cairngorms National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Birmingham is a great place to explore. One week 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 length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Birmingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Birmingham is £133, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is £119. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Birmingham and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Birmingham £66
    Cairngorms National Park £56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Birmingham £132
    Cairngorms National Park £112
Compare Hotels in Birmingham and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Birmingham


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Birmingham Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Birmingham £25
    Cairngorms National Park £53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Birmingham

Also for Birmingham, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Birmingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $199
  • Private Transfer from Birmingham Airport to Birmingham City: $36
  • Private Birmingham Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $57
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Birmingham: $8.12
  • Birmingham to Heathrow Airport private taxi transfers: $280
  • Birmingham Private Transfer from Birmingham city centre to Birmingham Airport: $114
  • Birmingham Private Transfer from Birmingham Airport to City centre: $114
  • Birmingham Airport Transfers: Birmingham City to Airport BHX in Business Car: $64
  • Birmingham Airport Transfers: Airport BHX to Birmingham City in Luxury Car: $101
  • Birmingham Airport (BHX): Private Transfer to Birmingham: $111
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Airport BHX to Birmingham in Luxury Van: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Birmingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Birmingham £38
    Cairngorms National Park £30
Typical Food Prices in Birmingham

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Birmingham:


  • Two Subs at Birmingham Bus Station
    £5.58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Birmingham

For Birmingham, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking and Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Birmingham £48
    Cairngorms National Park £26

Tours and Activities in Birmingham

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Birmingham.

  • 2.5-Hours Walking Tour of Birmingham into Black Heritage Madiba: $18
  • Best of Birmingham 12km Running Tour: $76
  • Birmingham : Must-see Attractions Private Walking Tour: $75
  • Birmingham : Private Custom Walking Tour With a Local Guide: $86
  • Birmingham Beer Bike - Private 1h tour with unlimited drinks: $625
  • Birmingham City Centre Daily Walking Tour (10:30am & 5pm): $15
  • Birmingham Gangs Nighttime Historical Walking Tour with Pub Stops: $32
  • Birmingham Private Ghosts and Gallows Tour: $144
  • Birmingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $267
  • Birmingham Private Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Birmingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $235
  • Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour with Edward Shelby: $25

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222
  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Birmingham £11
    Cairngorms National Park £8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Birmingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Birmingham:

  • Birmingham Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


When comparing the travel costs between Birmingham and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Birmingham 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 Birmingham Expensive? and Is Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Birmingham and Cairngorms National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Birmingham because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

In July, Birmingham is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Birmingham average around 17°C (63°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Birmingham usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during summer. Birmingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Birmingham usually receives less rain than Cairngorms National Park. Birmingham gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Birmingham 17°C (63°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Birmingham as well as Cairngorms National Park. The shopping scene and the music scene are the main draw to Birmingham this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Birmingham is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Birmingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Birmingham often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Birmingham gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun.

Birmingham usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cairngorms National Park. Birmingham gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Birmingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Birmingham are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Birmingham for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Cairngorms National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Birmingham. In the winter, Birmingham is around the same temperature as Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Birmingham in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Birmingham usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during winter. Birmingham gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Birmingham usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Birmingham gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Birmingham 3°C (38°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Birmingham or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Birmingham during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Birmingham is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Birmingham average around 9°C (48°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Birmingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park. Birmingham gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun.

Birmingham usually gets more rain in April than Cairngorms National Park. Birmingham gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Birmingham 9°C (48°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Birmingham

Birmingham Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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