A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Dover vs. Aberdeen for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Dover or Aberdeen?

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 Dover and Aberdeen can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a natural, breathtaking, and iconic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a historic, cultural, and architectural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dover and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Dover or Aberdeen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aberdeen than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aberdeen is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Dover is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe. 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 Dover different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dover
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Aberdeen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.


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

Dover
Aberdeen

Foodies will find both Dover and Aberdeen both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dover area. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aberdeen. 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 Dover or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Dover
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is very good for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Dover or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

Dover
Aberdeen

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

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Dover does not have a historic old town.


Is Dover or Aberdeen Better for Hiking?

Dover
Aberdeen

Dover is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Dover is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Aberdeen?

Dover
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is very good for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Aberdeen to go shopping. 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Dover
Aberdeen

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

Aberdeen is known to be 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.

Dover is a family-friendly town. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.


Is Dover or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Dover
Aberdeen

Dover is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Dover is a very popular place to visit for couples. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Dover or Aberdeen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover
Aberdeen

Dover is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Dover or Aberdeen Better for Students?

Dover
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is very good for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

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.

Dover is not popular with students.


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

Dover
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is very good for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town 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 Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Dover
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Dover?

How long in Dover or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dover and Aberdeen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dover than in Aberdeen. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aberdeen.

Families should spend more time in Aberdeen than Dover. 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 Dover. 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 Dover 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.


  • How many days in Dover or Aberdeen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dover 2-4 
    Aberdeen 2-3

One day in Dover or Aberdeen?

The beautiful town of Dover offers museums and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Aberdeen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Dover or Aberdeen?

Dover is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dover, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dover or Aberdeen?

Dover 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Aberdeen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dover or Aberdeen?

Dover is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Aberdeen or Dover?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dover is £124, while the average daily cost in Aberdeen is £121. 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 Dover and Aberdeen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dover £62
    Aberdeen £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dover £124
    Aberdeen £130
Compare Hotels in Dover and Aberdeen

Looking for a hotel in Dover or Aberdeen? 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 Dover


Hotels in Aberdeen


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: Dover Hotel Prices and Aberdeen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dover £39
    Aberdeen £34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210
  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $252

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $48
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $48
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $56
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $56
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Int Airport (ABZ) to Glasgow hotels - RoundTrip Transfer: $239

Is it cheaper to fly into Dover or Aberdeen?

Prices for flights to both Aberdeen and Dover 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
    Dover £38
    Aberdeen £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dover £20
    Aberdeen £19

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Pilgrims and Pit Stops: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Canterbury: $5.99
  • The Condensed Canterbury Tour: $13
  • The Canterbury Classic Tour: $16
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 14.00 Tour: $19
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $19
  • Small-Group City Running Tour in Canterbury: $26
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury: $151
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Aberdeen are as follows:

  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $59
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $64
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $65
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dover £7.71
    Aberdeen £3.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $176

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401


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


Which is Bigger, Dover or Aberdeen?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover or Aberdeen in the Summer?

Both Aberdeen and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Dover for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dover is a little warmer than Aberdeen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dover in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dover. Dover usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during summer. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dover usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dover 17°C (63°F) 
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Dover or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

Both Aberdeen and Dover during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year.

In October, Dover is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 12°C (54°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Dover often gets more sunshine than Aberdeen. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in October than Aberdeen. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dover 12°C (54°F) 
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Dover or Aberdeen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Aberdeen. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Aberdeen. It's quite cold in Dover in the winter. Dover is a little warmer than Aberdeen in the winter. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during winter. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dover usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dover 4°C (40°F) 
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Dover or Aberdeen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dover as well as Aberdeen. Many travelers come to Dover for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Aberdeen in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Dover is a little warmer than Aberdeen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dover in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Dover often gets more sunshine than Aberdeen. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in April than Aberdeen. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dover 9°C (47°F) 
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Dover

Dover Aberdeen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)