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

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Dusseldorf and Cairngorms National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a fun-filled, cultural, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a picturesque, tranquil, and remote national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and hiking.

Dusseldorf and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf than Cairngorms National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dusseldorf is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cairngorms National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Dusseldorf is well known for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. Also, Dusseldorf is famous for Altstadt (the Old Town).

How is Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Dusseldorf is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dusseldorf. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Dusseldorf is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Dusseldorf has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Dusseldorf is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dusseldorf. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Dusseldorf is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dusseldorf is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. 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.

Dusseldorf is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park?

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Dusseldorf is very good for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dusseldorf has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Both Dusseldorf and Cairngorms National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly place to visit. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cairngorms National Park is very family-friendly. 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 Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Dusseldorf and Cairngorms National Park both high quality destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Dusseldorf frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Cairngorms National Park is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

Dusseldorf and Cairngorms National Park are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

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

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

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

Dusseldorf has a great public transit system. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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 Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Cairngorms National Park

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

Dusseldorf is a very walkable destination. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Dusseldorf because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dusseldorf, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dusseldorf 2-3 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the cultural city of Dusseldorf, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food around the serene 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 Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the vibrant destination of Dusseldorf, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled city of Dusseldorf. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park?

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Dusseldorf?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dusseldorf is €185, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Dusseldorf and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf


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: Dusseldorf Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92

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

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Dusseldorf 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
    Dusseldorf 76
    Cairngorms National Park 35
Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Cairngorms National Park 31

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

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

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $141
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Dusseldorf : Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $51

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:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


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

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



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

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 Dusseldorf or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Cairngorms National Park. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dusseldorf is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 19°C (66°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Dusseldorf often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

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

Both Cairngorms National Park and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Dusseldorf is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cairngorms National Park. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

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

Both Cairngorms National Park and Dusseldorf during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Cairngorms National Park can be very cold. Dusseldorf can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Dusseldorf is cooler than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dusseldorf in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Dusseldorf often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Cairngorms National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

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

Dusseldorf usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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