A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Edinburgh or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles 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 charming, character-filled, and vibrant 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. It's also popular because of the live music, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a multicultural, sprawling, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Edinburgh and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Edinburgh, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Edinburgh is known for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Edinburgh is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Los Angeles is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood.

How is Edinburgh different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Edinburgh and Los Angeles.

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. 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 many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Visitors will find very good theaters and performances in Edinburgh and Los Angeles.

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.

Los Angeles offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

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

Los Angeles is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Los Angeles have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

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

Los Angeles is a must-see party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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 Los Angeles Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Edinburgh and Los Angeles.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

In Los Angeles you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

In Los Angeles, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is terrific for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Los Angeles is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic 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.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Around Los Angeles visitors will find world-class hiking trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Los Angeles draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an extremely popular city to visit for families. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Los Angeles is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Los Angeles is a very popular city for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Edinburgh and Los Angeles.

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 Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Edinburgh or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Los Angeles?

Both Edinburgh and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Edinburgh. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Edinburgh. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Los Angeles, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Los Angeles than Edinburgh. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Edinburgh 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Edinburgh or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the ancient city of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the charming destination of Edinburgh. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the charming city of Edinburgh. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Edinburgh or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Edinburgh. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, one week is sufficent for most. 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Edinburgh and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Edinburgh much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Edinburgh is in Europe and Los Angeles is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Edinburgh would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Edinburgh 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Edinburgh is much colder than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In July, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Edinburgh during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Edinburgh can get quite cold in the winter. Edinburgh is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Edinburgh is much colder than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Edinburgh