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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Dublin?

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 Dublin 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Edinburgh is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Edinburgh travel costs.

Dublin

Dublin is a welcoming, fun, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Dublin travel costs.

Edinburgh and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
  • Home to the Edinburgh Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Dublin?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Dublin. While Dublin is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Dublin is more popular for its food and nightlife. Edinburgh is more touristy than Dublin and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Dublin is well known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness.

How is Edinburgh different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh
Dublin

Edinburgh is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.


Is Edinburgh or Dublin Better for Theater?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Edinburgh is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Dublin 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.

Dublin is not a theatre destination.

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

Edinburgh
Dublin

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

Dublin has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

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 Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Dublin is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Dublin is a must-see party destination. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.


Is Edinburgh or Dublin Better for Music?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Edinburgh is terrific for its live music scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Edinburgh In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Dublin has a thriving music scene. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Is Edinburgh or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Edinburgh is terrific for its old town. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Dublin?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Edinburgh and Dublin.

Edinburgh is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.


Is Edinburgh or Dublin More Beautiful?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Edinburgh is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Dublin is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Edinburgh is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It has a long history and a lot of architectural beauty. The weather may be the most challenging part of a visit to Edinburgh.

Dublin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Edinburgh or Dublin Better for Families?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Both Edinburgh and Dublin 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.

Dublin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Edinburgh or Dublin Better for Couples?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Both Edinburgh and Dublin are high quality 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 Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.


Is Edinburgh or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Edinburgh is terrific for backpackers. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Edinburgh. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Is Edinburgh or Dublin Better for Students?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Edinburgh is a great destination for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

Edinburgh
Dublin

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Edinburgh and Dublin.

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

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.


Is Edinburgh or Dublin a more walkable city?

Edinburgh
Dublin

Edinburgh and Dublin are first-rate 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 Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Dublin?

In either Edinburgh or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Edinburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Edinburgh than Dublin. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Edinburgh than Dublin. 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 Dublin. 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 Dublin 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.


  • How many days in Edinburgh or Dublin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Edinburgh 2-5 
    Dublin 2-5

One day in Edinburgh or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Dublin. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Dublin?

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find live music and food around the fun destination of Dublin. 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 Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun city of Dublin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Edinburgh or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the ancient destination of Edinburgh. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dublin 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Dublin or Edinburgh?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Edinburgh Prices
    UK Prices
    Dublin Prices
    Ireland Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Edinburgh £171
    Dublin £150

The average daily cost (per person) in Edinburgh is £171, while the average daily cost in Dublin is £150. 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 Edinburgh and Dublin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Edinburgh £74
    Dublin £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Edinburgh £148
    Dublin £114
Compare Hotels in Edinburgh and Dublin

Looking for a hotel in Edinburgh or Dublin? 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 Edinburgh


Hotels in Dublin


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: Edinburgh Hotel Prices and Dublin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Edinburgh £17
    Dublin £16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Edinburgh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Edinburgh:


  • Local Bus
    £3.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edinburgh

Also for Edinburgh, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Luxury MPV Transfer Edinburgh Airport To or From St. Andrews : $285
  • Airport Transfer to/from Edinburgh City, St'Andrews etc.: $304
  • Airport Transfer: Airport EDI to Edinburgh by Business Car: $131
  • Airport Transfer: Edinburgh to Airport EDI by Luxury Car: $157
  • Airport Transfer: Edinburgh to Airport EDI by Luxury Van: $152
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport EDI to Edinburgh by Business Car: $131
  • Central Edinburgh Hotels to Edinburgh Airport Transfers 1-3: $253
  • Central Edinburgh Hotels to Edinburgh Airport Transfers 1-3 pax: $107
  • Departure Transfer - Edinburgh City to Edinburgh Airport: $101
  • Departure Transfer: Edinburgh to Airport EDI by Luxury Van: $152
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Edinburgh Luxury Taxi Transfer: $152
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Glasgow - Arrival Private Transfer: $174

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dublin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Dublin:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    £13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dublin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dublin:

  • Transfers from Dublin Airport to Dublin City: $116
  • The Westin Hotel Dublin To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $162
  • The Shelbourne Hotel Dublin To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $162
  • Private Transfer: Dublin to Dublin Airport DUB in Business Car: $105
  • Private Transfer from Navan to Belfast Airport (BFS): $263
  • Private Transfer from Dundalk to Belfast City Airport (BHD): $182
  • Private Transfer from Dundalk to Belfast Airport (BFS): $172
  • Private Transfer from Dun Laoghaire Cruise Port to Dublin City: $165
  • Private Transfer from Dublin airport to Dublin city center - One way Minivan: $179
  • Private Sedan(4 seats) Transfer from Dublin City Center to Dublin Airport: $92
  • Private Sedan (4 seats) Transfer from Dublin Airport to Dublin City Center: $92
  • Private One Way Transfer from Dublin To Dublin Airport: $116

Is it cheaper to fly into Edinburgh or Dublin?

Prices for flights to both Dublin and Edinburgh 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
    Edinburgh £68
    Dublin £71
Typical Food Prices in Edinburgh

For Edinburgh, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Breakfast
    £8.50
  • Dinner at Filling Station
    £10
  • Lunch for Two
    £15
  • Sandwich
    £1.85
  • Cheese & bread
    £7.23
  • Thai Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    £25
  • 2 Coffees and Scones
    £5.80
  • Turkish Delight
    £1.40
  • Soup at the Pub
    £5.90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Edinburgh

For Edinburgh, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Edinburgh Cheese Crawl : Guided Food Tour: $44
  • Plant-based Food Tours of the Old Town: $73
  • Scottish Dinner and Folk Music Experience: $98
  • Private 3-Hour Scottish Dinner and Folk Music Experience: $100
  • Food Tour with drinks: $106
  • Private Scottish Cooking Class with City Views: $106
  • Taste & Tour: Edinburgh Food Tour with Drinks: $107
  • 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour: $115
  • A Taste Of Edinburgh Food Tour. Includes All Food & Drinks: $118
  • Edinburgh Traditional Food Tour: $120
  • Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $120

Typical Food Prices in Dublin

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


  • Lunch Lynam's Pub
    £3.30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dublin

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

  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $28
  • Food on Food: Dublin Street Food Tour with local guide: $29
  • Dublin Irish House Party Live Show, Dinner Option Available: $32
  • NO DIET CLUB - Best Food Tour in Dublin !: $60
  • Belvedere Irish Night Show, Dance and Traditional 3-Course Dinner: $62
  • Dublin Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Grand Canal Cruise with Dinner: $72
  • Ultimate Dublin Food Tour: $82
  • Delicious Walking Food Tour: $83
  • Private Cooking Class in a Modern Home with Sea Views in Skerries, Dublin: $84
  • Delicious Dublin Food Tour: $84
  • Private Market Tour and Irish Cooking Class in a Modern Skerries Home: $102

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Edinburgh £20
    Dublin £21
Typical Entertainment Prices in Edinburgh

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Edinburgh's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Show Tickets
    £32
  • Movie Tickets for Two
    £12
  • Donation for Storytellers
    £6.00

Tours and Activities in Edinburgh

For Edinburgh, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $4.96
  • Edinburgh Harry Potter Self Guided Audio Tour: $7.10
  • Edinburgh Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Tour: $7.38
  • Edinburgh in 1 Day: Walking Tour with Digital Guide: $7.75
  • Edinburgh in 1 Day - Walking Tour - Audioguide in 7 languages: $7.92
  • A History of Witchcraft in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Mary Queen of Scots: Edinburgh Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Edinburgh Exploration Private Game and City Tour on your Phone: $8.44
  • Harry Potter’s A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Old Town Walking Tour with an APP: $9.99
  • Edinburgh Old Town Walking Tour with an App: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Edinburgh by Operation City Quest: $10

Typical Entertainment Prices in Dublin

Here are a few typical costs in Dublin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Wild Wicklow Tour
    £22
  • Guinness Brewery for Two
    £23
  • St Pauls Cathedral
    £3.76
  • Dublin Writer's Museum
    £5.26

Tours and Activities in Dublin

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

  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Dublin's Docklands: $12
  • (Small Group) Cliffs of Moher and Castle Tour from Dublin: $136
  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Dublin:Dublin Highlights and Glendalough Day Trip: $115
  • (Spanish) Cliffs of Moher and Galway tour from Dublin: $79
  • 2 Hour Walking Tour of Dublin's City Centre: $24
  • 2 Hours Senior’s Historical Private Walking Tour of Dublin : $255
  • 2-Day Western Ireland Tour from Dublin:Including Galway and Cliffs of Moher: $210
  • 2-Day Wild Atlantic Way Tour From Dublin: $210
  • 2-Hour Dublin Running Tour: $37
  • 2-Hour Macabre Dublin Walking Tour: $18
  • 2-Hours and 30 Minutes Historical Walking Tour in Dublin: $32
  • 5-Day Tour of West Ireland: Blarney Stone & Cliffs of Moher: $1,484

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Edinburgh £15
    Dublin £14
Typical Alcohol Prices in Edinburgh

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Edinburgh from other travelers:


  • Beer & Wine
    £14
  • Half Pint at Tollbooth Tavern
    £1.65

Sample the Local Flavors in Edinburgh

Also in Edinburgh, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • 7 Bar Pub Crawl with 7 Shots & Discounts: $11
  • Edinburgh Bar Crawl: 5+ Venues, Free Shots, Free Club Entry: $19
  • Port of Leith Distillery Tour & Tasting: $25
  • Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour with "Real-Actors": $25
  • Pub Crawl 7 Bars with 6 Shots: $25
  • The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour: $25
  • The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl: $25
  • Guided Gin Tasting at 56 North Distillery: $26
  • Tranent: Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery Tour and Tasting: $26
  • Haggis paired with whisky & gins in 56 North distillery!: $28
  • Whisky Tasting Experience at Summerhall Distillery: $31
  • Pickering's Distillery Tasting Tour (Gin Jolly): $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Dublin

Also in Dublin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Generation Pub Crawl: $14
  • The Dublin Liberties Distillery: Tour with Whiskey Tasting: $18
  • City Pub Crawl Experience: $21
  • Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $21
  • The Dublin Liberties Distillery - Guided Tour and Whiskey Tasting: $21
  • Dublin Teeling Whiskey Distillery Guided Tour and Tasting 1 Hour: $21
  • Exclusive Brewery Tour and Tasting at Kildare Brewing Co, Sallins: $21
  • Authentic Brewery Tour: $22
  • Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery Experience: $23
  • Roe and Co Distillery Cocktail Workshop Experience: $26
  • Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour with Tastings: $32
  • Dublin Jameson Distillery Bow St. Tour and Tasting 45 mins: $33


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


Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Dublin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Dublin in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Edinburgh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in July than Dublin. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Edinburgh 14°C (58°F) 
    Dublin 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Edinburgh or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Dublin. 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. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

In the autumn, Edinburgh is cooler than Dublin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Dublin averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dublin. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Edinburgh 10°C (49°F) 
    Dublin 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Edinburgh or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Dublin. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. In January, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Dublin. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Dublin. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Edinburgh 3°C (38°F) 
    Dublin 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Edinburgh or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Dublin in the spring for the activities around the city.

Edinburgh is cooler than Dublin in the spring. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Dublin during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Edinburgh 7°C (45°F) 
    Dublin 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dublin and Edinburgh

Edinburgh Dublin
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)