A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Edinburgh vs. Dover for Attractions, Backpackers, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Edinburgh or Dover?

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 Dover 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 vibrant, gothic, and ancient 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. Other popular activities here include museums, theater, and nightlife.

Dover

Dover is a rustic, stunning, and natural town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Edinburgh and Dover: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Dover?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Dover are both popular with visitors, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Dover is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Edinburgh is more touristy than Dover and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Dover is popular for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Edinburgh different from Dover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Edinburgh on the map. 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.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Is Edinburgh or Dover Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Dover is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Dover is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Dover has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

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 Dover Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Edinburgh or Dover Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Dover is not a live music destination.

In Edinburgh you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Dover is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Dover Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dover does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Edinburgh is revered around 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.

Dover does not have a historic old town.

Is Edinburgh or Dover Better for Hiking?

Dover is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Dover?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Edinburgh or Dover Better for Families?

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

Edinburgh is known to be 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.

Dover is a family-friendly city. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Is Edinburgh or Dover Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Dover are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Couples visit Dover frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Is Edinburgh or Dover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

Is Edinburgh or Dover Better for Students?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

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

Dover is not popular with students.

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

Edinburgh is very good for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town 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 Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Edinburgh or Dover a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

Should I spend more time in Dover or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Dover?

It's fun to spend time in either Edinburgh or Dover. 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 Dover.

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

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this character-filled destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Dover. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Dover?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and food around the rustic destination of Dover. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Dover?

Edinburgh is a fun place to experience. In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the natural town of Dover. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Dover?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the character-filled destination of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dover is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Dover?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and Dover, 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 Dover?

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 Dover in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Dover. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Dover for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Edinburgh is cooler than Dover. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Dover averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dover. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Dover. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 212 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in July than Dover. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dover receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Dover in the Autumn?

Both Dover and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Dover. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Dover fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Dover during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 119 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Dover. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dover receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Dover in the Winter?

Both Dover and Edinburgh during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dover this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dover in the winter. The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. Edinburgh is cooler than Dover in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Dover fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Dover. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 57 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in January than Dover. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dover receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Dover in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Dover. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dover for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Edinburgh is cooler than Dover. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Dover averages at about 9°C (47°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Dover during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dover. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Dover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dover and Edinburgh