A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dundee vs. Lausanne for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Dundee or Lausanne?

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

Should I visit Dundee or Lausanne? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Dundee

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

Lausanne

Lausanne is a cultural, international, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dundee and Lausanne: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Dundee or Lausanne?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dundee than Lausanne. Dundee is bigger than Lausanne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dundee is better known for its big city activities, while Lausanne is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Dundee is well known for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design. Also, Dundee is famous for Discovery Point and RRS Discovery. Lausanne is well known for being the home of the International Olympic Committee headquarters.

How is Dundee different from Lausanne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dundee or Lausanne?

Dundee
Lausanne

Lausanne is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Lausanne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find many great museums around town that cover a range of topics. The Olympic Museum is very interesting. You should also check out the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and the Hermitage Foundation.

Dundee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On the waterfront you'll find a couple of nautical museums such as RRS Discovery, and HM Frigate Unicorn. Other museums and sights include V&A Dundee, Tay Rail Bridge, Camperdown Wildlife Centre, and Glamis Castle.


Is the Food Better in Dundee or Lausanne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dundee
Lausanne

Lausanne is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lausanne makes for a great culinary experience. The city is filled with delicious chocolate, cheese, and wine. Fondue is a favorite, but you'll also find cured meats on most menus. While food can be expensive, it's also high quality and usually locally produced.

Dundee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a few local dishes that the city is known for. These include Dundee Cake, Dundee marmalade, and Angus beef.

Is Dundee or Lausanne Better for Nightlife?

Dundee
Lausanne

Both Dundee and Lausanne are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dundee. The vibrant student population heavily influences the city's nightlife. There are a number of clubs and bars where you can hang out late into the night.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Lausanne. There are a surprising number of clubs around town and it's not hard to find somewhere to party. The large student population and the international vibe make this a fascinating place for nightlife.

Is Dundee or Lausanne Better for its Old Town?

Dundee
Lausanne

Lausanne is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lausanne to see the historical old town. There's a relatively large historic section that has a Gothic cathedral and many quaint shops.

Dundee does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dundee or Lausanne?

Dundee
Lausanne

Lausanne is a well-known place for shopping. However, Dundee is not a good city for its shopping opportunities.

Lausanne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find luxury Swiss watch brands, jewelry, chocolate, and many other interesting things to buy. Prices can be high, but so is the quality. It's fun to look, even if you're not planning to purchase.

If you're looking to go shopping, Dundee has some nice offerings. There are shopping centers and a few independent shops that are worth checking out. Head to Overgate Shopping Centre for the standard brands or Dundee's Farmer's Market for some local produce.

Is Dundee or Lausanne Better for Families?

Dundee
Lausanne

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Dundee or Lausanne.

Dundee is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to the Dundee Science Center or check out Discovery Point. There's also the Dundee Treasure Trail as well as climbing walls and other outdoor activities for when the weather's nice.

Lausanne is a family-friendly city. There are kid-friendly museums, petting zoos, and other fun activities in town. You can also take a boat ride or let the kids run around one of the parks in town.

Is Dundee or Lausanne Better for Couples?

Dundee
Lausanne

Lausanne is a popular place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Lausanne is a nice destination for couples. The medieval old city is fun to explore. The lakefront setting also offers fun activities like boating. There are also a number of museums in town to explore.

Most people don't think of Dundee as a couple's destination. The coastal city has some nice outdoor spaces and interesting restaurants that couples can enjoy.


Is Dundee or Lausanne Better for Students?

Dundee
Lausanne

Lausanne is a well-known place for students. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Lausanne is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are 11 institutes for higher learning in town, so students make up a significant percentage of the population. The city is also full of culture, making it a very livable city.

Plenty of students visit Dundee. Its affordability and authenticity make this a nice option for students. It's also a very safe city.

Is Dundee or Lausanne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dundee
Lausanne

Both Dundee and Lausanne offer notable public transit options.

Dundee has a few public transit options. The city has a public bus system.

Lausanne has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive network of transportation options available in town including buses and boats.

Is Dundee or Lausanne a more walkable city?

Dundee
Lausanne

Dundee and Lausanne both are notable when exploring on foot.

Dundee is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walks through the town.

Lausanne is a somewhat walkable place. Many parts of the city, including the historic sections, and relatively easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Dundee Worth Visiting? and Is Lausanne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lausanne or Dundee?

How long in Dundee or Lausanne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Dundee or Lausanne to fill your time. In our opinion, Lausanne has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lausanne than Dundee. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lausanne than Dundee 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 Lausanne.


  • How many days in Dundee or Lausanne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dundee 1-2 
    Lausanne 1-2

One day in Dundee or Lausanne?

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lausanne. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Dundee or Lausanne?

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

Lausanne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Dundee or Lausanne?

Dundee 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lausanne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Dundee or Lausanne?

Dundee 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Lausanne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lausanne or Dundee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dundee is £234, while the average daily cost in Lausanne is £183. 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 Dundee and Lausanne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dundee £149
    Lausanne £110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dundee £298
    Lausanne £220
Compare Hotels in Dundee and Lausanne

Looking for a hotel in Dundee or Lausanne? 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 Dundee


Hotels in Lausanne


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: Dundee Hotel Prices and Lausanne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dundee £16
    Lausanne £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lausanne

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lausanne:

  • Lausanne accommodation to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Private Transfer: $53
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Évian-les-Bains: $160
  • Taxi, Airport Transfer and Limousine Service in Switzerland: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Dundee or Lausanne?

Prices for flights to both Lausanne and Dundee 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
    Dundee £47
    Lausanne £50
Typical Food Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of dining costs in Dundee are as follows:


  • Moroccan Sandwich
    £2.70
  • Drinks and Scottish Shortbread at Discovery
    £4.70
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    £8.80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dundee £106
    Lausanne £30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Dundee are as follows:


  • Newspaper
    £0.85

Tours and Activities in Dundee

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

  • Skip-the-Line: Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $6.36
  • Made in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Dundee Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Boat Seafari Adventure: $34
  • Original Dundee Photoshoot Tour: $83

Tours and Activities in Lausanne

Here are a few actual costs in Lausanne for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Modern Medeival A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Medieval A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Lausanne Highlights Self Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Lausanne Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided City Walking Tour: $15
  • Lausanne (Ouchy District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Lausanne (City Center) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Lausanne Ouchy District City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • The Olympic Museum Entry Ticket: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dundee £13
    Lausanne £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Lausanne

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

  • Swiss cheese and charcuterie wine tasting: $50


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

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


Which is Bigger, Dundee or Lausanne?

Dundee has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Lausanne. When comparing the sizes of Dundee and Lausanne, 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.