A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Orlando for Families, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Edinburgh or Orlando?

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 Orlando 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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and theater.

Edinburgh and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Orlando?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Orlando. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Orlando attracts visitors for its food and resorts. Edinburgh is famous 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. Orlando is famous for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities.

How is Edinburgh different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Edinburgh from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is great for theatre. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its theatre productions.

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.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

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

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

Orlando has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Edinburgh for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando Better for Music?

Edinburgh is renowned for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is known as a music capital around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

Orlando is a world class resort vacation destination. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic old town. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Orlando?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Edinburgh and Orlando.

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 Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando Better for Christmas?

Orlando is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Edinburgh does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Edinburgh does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando Better for Families?

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

Orlando is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Edinburgh is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando Better for Students?

Edinburgh is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

Edinburgh is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Edinburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Edinburgh or Orlando a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is renowned for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Orlando?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Edinburgh than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando?

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 shopping and theater around the city of Orlando. 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 Orlando?

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 theater and nightlife around the active destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the family-friendly city of Orlando. 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 Orlando?

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.

Orlando 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 Orlando, 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Edinburgh and Orlando, we can see that Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando 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 Orlando Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Orlando?

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

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 Orlando in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Orlando. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Orlando in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 14°C (58°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Orlando. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Orlando in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Orlando. 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 Orlando for the shopping scene during these months.

Edinburgh is much colder than Orlando in the autumn. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in October than Orlando. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Orlando in the Winter?

Both Orlando and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Orlando because of the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Edinburgh is much colder than Orlando. Typically, the winter temperatures in Edinburgh in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Orlando averages at about 59°F (15°C).

In January, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Orlando. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Orlando in the Spring?

Both Orlando and Edinburgh during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 7°C (45°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Orlando. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Edinburgh