A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Bristol vs. Aberdeen for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Bristol or Aberdeen?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Aberdeen 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.

Bristol

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

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a authentic, historic, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bristol and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bristol or Aberdeen?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Aberdeen than Bristol. While Bristol is larger than Aberdeen, Aberdeen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aberdeen is better known for its historical sights, while Bristol is more popular for its nightlife and shopping. Bristol is well known for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. Aberdeen is well known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Also, Aberdeen is famous for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Bristol different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Aberdeen and Bristol.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Aberdeen. 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 the Food Better in Bristol or Aberdeen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Bristol and Aberdeen can be an enjoyable experience.

Bristol is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

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.

Is Bristol or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Bristol is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Bristol offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

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 Bristol or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

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

Aberdeen is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Aberdeen?

Bristol is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Bristol is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

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 Bristol or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Aberdeen is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Aberdeen. 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.

Bristol is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Is Bristol or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Both Bristol and Aberdeen are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bristol is a good city for couples to visit. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

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

Is Bristol or Aberdeen Better for Students?

For students, both Bristol and Aberdeen are notable places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Bristol. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

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

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

Bristol and Aberdeen both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Bristol offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

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.

Is Bristol or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Bristol and Aberdeen are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bristol and Aberdeen. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bristol, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aberdeen.

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

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

One day in Bristol or Aberdeen?

The city of Bristol offers food and shopping. 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 Bristol or Aberdeen?

Bristol 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 Bristol, 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 Bristol or Aberdeen?

Bristol 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 Bristol or Aberdeen?

Bristol 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bristol or Aberdeen?

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Bristol 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 Bristol or Aberdeen?

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 Bristol or Aberdeen in the Summer?

Both Aberdeen and Bristol during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bristol for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Aberdeen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bristol is a little warmer than Aberdeen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bristol in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in July than Aberdeen. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Aberdeen. Many visitors come to Bristol in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Bristol is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 13°C (55°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In October, Bristol usually receives more rain than Aberdeen. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bristol or Aberdeen in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Aberdeen. Most visitors come to Bristol for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Aberdeen can be very cold. Bristol is much warmer than Aberdeen in the winter. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Aberdeen. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Aberdeen in the Spring?

Both Aberdeen and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bristol because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year.

In the spring, Bristol is a little warmer than Aberdeen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bristol in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Bristol