A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Bratislava for Attractions, Old Town, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Edinburgh or Bratislava?

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 Bratislava 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 character-filled, vibrant, and gothic 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 shopping, museums, and theater.

Bratislava

Bratislava is a genuine, cultural, and laid-back city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh and Bratislava: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Bratislava?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Bratislava are roughly the same size, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Bratislava attracts visitors for its food. Edinburgh is more touristy than Bratislava 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. Bratislava is famous for its local beer, charming old town, and scenic mountain setting.

How is Edinburgh different from Bratislava?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Many visitors head to Bratislava specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Despite its small size, the city is packed with interesting sights and attractions. A highlight of a visit is exploring the Bratislava Castle. Other notable sights include Michael's Gate, the Slovak National Theatre, Grassalkovich Palace, and Primate's Palace & Hall of Mirrors.

Is Edinburgh or Bratislava Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is notable for theatre. However, Bratislava is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Bratislava is not a theatre destination.

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

Bratislava is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Bratislava has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Slovakian food is hearty and uses a few staple ingredients like cheese and dumplings. The dishes are warm and filling on a cool day, so it's nice to step into a cozy restaurant and rest after a day of exploring. Popular local dishes include bryndzové halušky (sheep's cheese gnocchi), kapustnica (cabbage soup), and goulash.

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 Bratislava Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Edinburgh and Bratislava.

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.

Bratislava is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has grown in popularity as a center for nightlife with many people visiting from nearby Vienna. There are a growing number of stag and hen parties around town, but you'll also find sophisticated wine bars and a refined social scene. Many of the city's clubs are found in old town around Michalská, Obchodná and Ventúrska streets as well as Hviezdoslavovo and SNP squares.

Is Edinburgh or Bratislava Better for Music?

Edinburgh is renowned for live music. However, Bratislava 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.

Bratislava is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Bratislava Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bratislava. The old town is filled with diverse architecture as well as traditional and upscale restaurants.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Bratislava?

Edinburgh is notable for shopping. Also, Bratislava 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 Bratislava. Shopping has come to life here, with three large shopping malls and many shopping streets where you'll find local boutiques. The city has both global brands as well as more traditional shops where you can buy local items. Popular things to purchase while you're in town include traditional clothing, wooden crosses, corn husk dolls, and local alcohol such as slivovica.

Is Edinburgh or Bratislava Better for Families?

Edinburgh is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bratislava 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.

Bratislava is a family-friendly city. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the lack of tourist crowds when compared to other European cities, even during school holidays. You can explore the city and enjoy a laid back vibe without the chaos of navigating through tour groups and large crowds. There's also a nice old town as well as gardens, playgrounds, palaces, and the Bratislava Castle.

Is Edinburgh or Bratislava Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is notable for romance. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Bratislava makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that enjoy stepping away from tourist crowds will appreciate this relaxed city. There is the beautiful Janko Kráľ Park as well as the Bratislava Castle that you can explore. It's enjoyable to simply walk around the old town and soak up the atmosphere as well. There are also many great restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy a night out.

Is Edinburgh or Bratislava Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Many backpackers visit Bratislava. The city offers an affordable and unique alternative to some of the larger and well known cities that are nearby. There are a couple of hostels and some affordable hotels that will help you keep your expenses down.

Is Edinburgh or Bratislava Better for Students?

Edinburgh is notable for students. However, Bratislava is not popular with students.

Edinburgh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Bratislava is not popular with students.

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

Bratislava is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Bratislava can get you to some places easily. There are trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Bratislava a more walkable city?

Edinburgh and Bratislava are terrific when it comes to walkability.

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

Getting around Bratislava on foot is easy. One of the best ways to experience the city is to walk around. The old town is also a large pedestrian zone.

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

Should I spend more time in Bratislava or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Bratislava?

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

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

With live music and shopping around the vibrant city of Edinburgh, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Bratislava. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bratislava has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Bratislava?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Edinburgh, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Bratislava. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Bratislava?

Edinburgh, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bratislava. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Bratislava?

Edinburgh 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.

Bratislava is a popular choice for travelers. 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. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Slovakia, and The Best River Cruises in Slovakia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Bratislava?

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

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 Bratislava in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Bratislava. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bratislava in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Bratislava. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 14°C (58°F), and Bratislava fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bratislava. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Bratislava. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 255 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Bratislava. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Bratislava in the Autumn?

Both Bratislava and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bratislava for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Edinburgh is cooler than Bratislava in the autumn. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Bratislava fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Bratislava during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 140 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Bratislava. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Bratislava in the Winter?

Both Bratislava and Edinburgh during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bratislava because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bratislava can be very cold. Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Edinburgh is much warmer than Bratislava. Typically, the winter temperatures in Edinburgh in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bratislava averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Bratislava. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 65 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in January than Bratislava. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Bratislava in the Spring?

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

In April, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Bratislava. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 7°C (45°F), and Bratislava fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bratislava this time of the year. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Bratislava during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Bratislava. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bratislava and Edinburgh