A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Atlanta for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Edinburgh or Atlanta?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Atlanta 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a gothic, ancient, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a suburban, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh and Atlanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Atlanta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Atlanta are about the same size, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is more popular for its theatre productions, music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Atlanta is known for its food, shopping, and big city activities. Edinburgh is more touristy than Atlanta and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Atlanta is popular for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement.

How is Edinburgh different from Atlanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Edinburgh or Atlanta?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Edinburgh and Atlanta.

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Atlanta on the map. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Atlanta is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Atlanta is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Edinburgh or Atlanta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Atlanta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Edinburgh and Atlanta.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Atlanta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for Music?

Edinburgh is terrific for its music scene. However, Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Edinburgh has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Atlanta?

Atlanta is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Atlanta draws large crowds to its stores. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Atlanta are high quality to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Atlanta is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is a great city for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Edinburgh is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for Students?

Both Edinburgh and Atlanta are high quality destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Many students visit Atlanta. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Edinburgh is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

While Edinburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Edinburgh or Atlanta a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Edinburgh is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

For even more information, also check out Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Atlanta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlanta or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Atlanta?

It's fun to spend time in either Edinburgh or Atlanta. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Edinburgh due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 2-4 days is enough time in Atlanta.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Atlanta 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Edinburgh or Atlanta?

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. 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.

People visit Atlanta because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Atlanta?

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. 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 Edinburgh has to offer.

People visit Atlanta because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Atlanta?

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edinburgh has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the sprawling city of Atlanta. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Atlanta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. 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.

Atlanta is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Edinburgh and Atlanta, we can see that Edinburgh 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. Even though Edinburgh is in Europe and Atlanta is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Atlanta?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and Atlanta, 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 Edinburgh or Atlanta?

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 Edinburgh or Atlanta in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Atlanta. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Edinburgh is much colder than Atlanta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Atlanta averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlanta this time of the year. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Atlanta during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 271 hours of full sun in the summer.

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Atlanta in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Atlanta. The autumn months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year.

In October, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Atlanta fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Atlanta. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 222 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in October than Atlanta. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Atlanta in the Winter?

Both Atlanta and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Atlanta for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. Edinburgh is much colder than Atlanta in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Atlanta fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Atlanta during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 164 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Atlanta in the Spring?

Both Atlanta and Edinburgh during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Atlanta in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Edinburgh is much colder than Atlanta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Atlanta averages at about 65°F (18°C).

In Atlanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Atlanta. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 262 hours of full sun.

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Atlanta. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Atlanta and Edinburgh