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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Glencoe?

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 Glencoe 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 ancient, charming, and character-filled 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 nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Glencoe

Glencoe is a serene, beautiful, and picturesque village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Edinburgh and Glencoe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Glencoe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Glencoe 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 Glencoe is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Edinburgh is more touristy than Glencoe 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. Glencoe is popular for its mountaineering, hiking, and beautiful natural setting.

How is Edinburgh different from Glencoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Glencoe is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Glencoe is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Glencoe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Local specialties include seafood and pub food. You'll also find plenty of whisky and local beer. There are a variety of dining options with local pubs alongside fine dining restaurants.

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 Glencoe Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is well known for its evening party scene. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

Glencoe doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a handful of bars where you can relax with local whisky or beer.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Glencoe 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.

Glencoe is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Glencoe 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.

Glencoe does not have a historic old town.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe Better for Hiking?

Glencoe 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 Glencoe. The area has dramatic hikes and stunning landscapes. Some of the best walks through the countryside include Inchree Falls, Grey Mare's Tail & Mamore Lodge, and The Two Lairigs.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Glencoe?

Edinburgh is well known for its shopping areas. However, Glencoe 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.

Glencoe is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Glencoe are great 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.

Glencoe is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Take a steam train along the Harry Potter Line. You'll feel like you're aboard the Hogwarts Express. You can also visit the Natural History Center, hike around the Glencoe National Nature Center, or visit the Glencoe Folk Museum.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Glencoe are great 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 Glencoe frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature, hiking, and stunning scenery will enjoy a visit to this beautiful area.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Glencoe is not particularly known 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.

Glencoe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It can be challenging to reach without a car and the surrounding countryside also requires a vehicle. There is some great camping available in the area.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe Better for Students?

Edinburgh is well known for students. However, Glencoe is not popular with 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.

Glencoe is not popular with students.

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

Edinburgh is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Glencoe. There are local buses, but it's much easier to make the most of your visit if you have a vehicle.

Is Edinburgh or Glencoe a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Glencoe is generally not a very walkable city. It's easier to fully experience the area if you have your own vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Glencoe or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Glencoe?

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

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

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 food around the village of Glencoe. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Glencoe has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Glencoe?

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 food around the beautiful destination of Glencoe. 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 village has to offer. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Glencoe?

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 food when visiting the picturesque village of Glencoe. 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 Glencoe?

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.

Glencoe 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Edinburgh and Glencoe, we can see that Edinburgh is more expensive. And not only is Glencoe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Glencoe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Glencoe 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 Glencoe.

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