A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Edinburgh vs. Belfast for Backpackers, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Edinburgh or Belfast?

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 Belfast 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. 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 also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for theater, nightlife, and live music.

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife and shopping.

Edinburgh and Belfast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Belfast?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Belfast. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is more touristy than Belfast and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle. Belfast is famous for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Edinburgh different from Belfast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Edinburgh that are not to be missed. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for theatre. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Edinburgh and Belfast.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edinburgh. 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.

Belfast may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast Better for Nightlife?

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

Edinburgh offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Belfast is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is a world class music destination. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Belfast is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Edinburgh offers plenty to see. 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.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Belfast?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Edinburgh is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast Better for Families?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Edinburgh is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast Better for Couples?

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

Edinburgh is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is a great city to visit as a student. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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

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

Edinburgh has a few public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Edinburgh or Belfast a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in Belfast or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Belfast?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Edinburgh and Belfast. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than in Belfast. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 1-3 days is enough time in Belfast.

Families should spend more time in Edinburgh than Belfast. 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 Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast?

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.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the city of Belfast. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Belfast has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Belfast?

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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Belfast. 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 Belfast?

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 shopping when visiting the under-rated city of Belfast. 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 Belfast?

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.

Belfast 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 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom.

When comparing the travel costs between Edinburgh and Belfast, 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. 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Belfast Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Belfast?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Belfast. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and Belfast, 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 Belfast?

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 Edinburgh or Belfast in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Belfast. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Edinburgh is generally around the same temperature as Belfast. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 14°C (58°F), and Belfast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Edinburgh often gets more sunshine than Belfast. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Belfast receives 151 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Belfast. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Belfast in the Autumn?

Both Belfast and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Belfast this time of year.

Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Belfast in the autumn. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Belfast fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Belfast during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Belfast receives 92 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Belfast. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Belfast in the Winter?

Both Belfast and Edinburgh during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 Belfast for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Belfast. It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. In the winter, Edinburgh is cooler than Belfast. Typically, the winter temperatures in Edinburgh in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Belfast averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Belfast. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Belfast receives 50 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Belfast. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Belfast in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Belfast. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Belfast in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Belfast. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 7°C (45°F), and Belfast fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Belfast during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Belfast receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Belfast. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Belfast and Edinburgh