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

Should you visit Dundee or Lucerne?

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

Should I visit Dundee or Lucerne? 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a scenic, active, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dundee and Lucerne: 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
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Dundee or Lucerne?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Dundee. While Dundee is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is more touristy than Dundee and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge. Dundee is well known for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Dundee different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

Dundee
Lucerne

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dundee
Lucerne

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Dundee and Lucerne can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Dundee offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a few local dishes that the city is known for. These include Dundee Cake, Dundee marmalade, and Angus beef.

Lucerne has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Dundee or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Dundee
Lucerne

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

Lucerne offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Is Dundee or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Dundee
Lucerne

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Dundee does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dundee or Lucerne?

Dundee
Lucerne

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

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

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 Lucerne Better for Families?

Dundee
Lucerne

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Dundee or Lucerne.

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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly city. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Dundee or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Dundee
Lucerne

Lucerne is a well-known place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne Better for Students?

Dundee
Lucerne

Dundee is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

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

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Dundee
Lucerne

Both Dundee and Lucerne offer notable public transit options.

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

Lucerne has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Dundee or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Dundee
Lucerne

Dundee and Lucerne both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable place. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.


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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Dundee?

How long in Dundee or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dundee and Lucerne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lucerne than in Dundee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Dundee, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lucerne.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Dundee or Lucerne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dundee 1-2 
    Lucerne 1-3

One day in Dundee or Lucerne?

In Dundee, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Dundee or Lucerne?

In Dundee, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dundee has to offer.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

Dundee is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dundee. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dundee. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Lucerne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne 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 Lucerne is £172. 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 Lucerne in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Dundee or Lucerne? 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 Lucerne


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 Lucerne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dundee £16
    Lucerne £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

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

  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744

Is it cheaper to fly into Dundee or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne 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
    Lucerne £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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

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

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dundee £106
    Lucerne £27
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:

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    £27
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    £28

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Revealing Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Smartphone walking tour - cool Lucerne old town: $5.47
  • Walking Tour - Around the Old Town Lucerne: $5.60
  • The Lives and Legends of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Lucerne Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour with an Official Guide: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dundee £13
    Lucerne £18

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

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

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dundee and Lucerne, we can see that Dundee is more expensive. And not only is Lucerne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lucerne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lucerne 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 Lucerne.

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


Which is Bigger, Dundee or Lucerne?

Dundee has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Dundee and Lucerne, 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 Dundee or Lucerne?

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 Dundee or Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dundee as well as Lucerne. Most visitors come to Dundee for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dundee is generally cooler than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Dundee average around 14°C (58°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. In the summer, Dundee often gets less sunshine than Lucerne. Dundee gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets less rain in July than Lucerne. Dundee gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dundee 14°C (58°F) 
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Dundee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Dundee because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

Dundee is cooler than Lucerne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dundee averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Dundee usually receives less sunshine than Lucerne during autumn. Dundee gets 100 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dundee usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Dundee gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dundee 10°C (49°F) 
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Dundee during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dundee this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lucerne. It's quite cold in Dundee in the winter. In the winter, Dundee is around the same temperature as Lucerne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dundee in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Lucerne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Dundee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lucerne. Dundee gets 58 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets less rain in January than Lucerne. Dundee gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dundee 3°C (38°F) 
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Lucerne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dundee and Lucerne. Many travelers come to Dundee for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lucerne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Dundee is generally much colder than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Dundee average around 7°C (45°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Dundee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lucerne during spring. Dundee gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dundee usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Dundee gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dundee 7°C (45°F) 
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Dundee

Dundee Lucerne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)