A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. San Francisco for Attractions, Food, Music, and Families

Should you visit Edinburgh or San Francisco?

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 San Francisco 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Edinburgh 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 theater, nightlife, and live music. See Edinburgh travel costs.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a eccentric, one-of-a-kind, and scenic coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. San Francisco is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches. See San Francisco travel costs.

Edinburgh and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Golden Gate Bridge
Things to Consider
  • Less active music scene


Is there more to do in Edinburgh or San Francisco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Edinburgh, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Francisco is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Edinburgh is known for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Edinburgh is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. San Francisco is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge.

How is Edinburgh different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Edinburgh and San Francisco.

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 San Francisco on the map. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.


Is Edinburgh or San Francisco Better for Theater?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Edinburgh is a great city for its shows and theatre. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for theatre.

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.

San Francisco offers a number of shows and performances. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

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

Edinburgh
San Francisco

San Francisco is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in San Francisco have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Edinburgh is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Edinburgh has something for everybody. 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 San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.


Is Edinburgh or San Francisco Better for Music?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for live music.

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

You'll find some good live music in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Is Edinburgh or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

San Francisco is a very popular place for the beach. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

The beaches at San Francisco attract visitors from all over. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Edinburgh or San Francisco Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Edinburgh offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

San Francisco does not have a historic old town.


Is Edinburgh or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

San Francisco is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Around San Francisco visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or San Francisco?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

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

Known for shopping, San Francisco draws large crowds to its stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco More Beautiful?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

San Francisco is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

San Francisco is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its dramatic Golden Gate Bridge, and the many beautiful hills with striking views of the city and bay, San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States.

With stunning beauty, Edinburgh attracts visitors from all around. It has a long history and a lot of architectural beauty. The weather may be the most challenging part of a visit to Edinburgh.


Is Edinburgh or San Francisco Better for Families?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

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

San Francisco is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 San Francisco Better for Couples?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Both Edinburgh and San Francisco 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 San Francisco frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Edinburgh or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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 San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.


Is Edinburgh or San Francisco Better for Students?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Both Edinburgh and San Francisco are high quality destinations for 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.

Many students visit San Francisco. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

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

Edinburgh
San Francisco

San Francisco is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of San Francisco can take you anywhere. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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.

Is Edinburgh or San Francisco a more walkable city?

Edinburgh
San Francisco

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

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

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.


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

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or San Francisco?

Both Edinburgh and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Edinburgh. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than San Francisco 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 San Francisco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Edinburgh 2-5 
    San Francisco 3-7

One day in Edinburgh or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the charming destination of Edinburgh. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

People visit San Francisco 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 coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the character-filled destination of Edinburgh. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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


A week in Edinburgh or San Francisco?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful city of Edinburgh. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, 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.


Which place is cheaper, San Francisco 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
    San Francisco Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Edinburgh $212
    San Francisco $251

The average daily cost (per person) in Edinburgh is $212, while the average daily cost in San Francisco is $251. 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 San Francisco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Edinburgh $92
    San Francisco $130
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Edinburgh $184
    San Francisco $260
Compare Hotels in Edinburgh and San Francisco

Looking for a hotel in Edinburgh or San Francisco? 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 San Francisco


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 San Francisco Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Edinburgh $21
    San Francisco $16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Edinburgh

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


  • Local Bus
    $4.46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edinburgh

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

  • Scotland: Private Airport Transfers and Day Trips: $1,117
  • Loch Ness Private Day Tour from Edinburgh with Transfers: $745
  • Airport Transfer to/from Edinburgh City, St'Andrews etc.: $304
  • Luxury MPV Transfer Edinburgh Airport To or From St. Andrews : $284
  • Central Edinburgh Hotels to Edinburgh Airport Transfers 1-3: $253
  • Edinburgh Train Station to Edinburgh Hotel Transfers 1-3 Pax: $248
  • Gleneagles to Edinburgh Luxury Taxi Transfer: $240
  • Glasgow to Edinburgh Luxury Car Transfer: $230
  • Edinburgh to Stirling Luxury Taxi Transfer: $218
  • Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow City One Way Private Transfer : $208
  • Private MiniVan Transfer from Glasgow GLA Airport to Edinburgh: $202
  • VIP Airport Transfer: $189

Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Francisco

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in San Francisco:


  • Taxi to SFO
    $45
  • Golden Gate Bridge Toll
    $6.00
  • Alcatraz Tour
    $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Francisco

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

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in San Francisco HTL-APT (SFO): $123
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in San Francisco APT-HTL (SFO): $122
  • Sedan Airport Transfer from Walnut Creek to SFO (one way): $269
  • Sedan Airport Transfer from SFO to East Bay (one way): $262
  • Silicon Valley Private Tour with Transfers: $510
  • SFO Airport Private Transfer to Downtown: $115
  • Private Transfer from SFO Airport to downtown: $71
  • Private Airport Transfer: $375
  • One Way Private Airport Transfer Service: $95
  • San Francisco to/from Yosemite National Park: 1-Way Transfer: $169
  • San Francisco to Yosemite One-Way Transfer: $169
  • San Francisco to San José Airport (SJC) - Departure Private Transfer: $242

Is it cheaper to fly into Edinburgh or San Francisco?

Prices for flights to both San Francisco 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 $84
    San Francisco $79
Typical Food Prices in Edinburgh

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


  • Breakfast
    $11
  • Dinner at Filling Station
    $12
  • Lunch for Two
    $19
  • Sandwich
    $2.29
  • Cheese & bread
    $8.96
  • Thai Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    $31
  • 2 Coffees and Scones
    $7.19
  • Turkish Delight
    $1.74
  • Soup at the Pub
    $7.31

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
  • Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $34
  • 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
  • Private Scottish Cooking Class with City Views: $106
  • Food Tour with drinks: $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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Francisco

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

  • Online Cooking Class Pepper Steak Great for Team Building: $20
  • Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings by Chef Sunflower Li: $25
  • Melting Pot of the Mission District Food Tour: $74
  • Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 Maritime Food Tour: $79
  • Secret Food Tours San Francisco: $83
  • North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour: $84
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay: $87
  • San Francisco Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Mission District Food Tour with Tastings: $92
  • San Francisco Food Tour: Ferry Building and Ferry Plaza Farmers Market: $95
  • Secret Food Tour of North Beach and Chinatown: $96
  • San Francisco North Beach Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Edinburgh $25
    San Francisco $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Edinburgh

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


  • Show Tickets
    $40
  • Movie Tickets for Two
    $15
  • Donation for Storytellers
    $7.44

Tours and Activities in Edinburgh

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

  • Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh: $221
  • 'A wee pedal's' E-bike tour of Arthur's Seat and beyond: $86
  • 1 Day Whisky, Glencoe, Scottish Highlands & Loch Ness Tour: $66
  • 1-Hour Historical Walking Tour Discovering Edinburgh's Old Town: $23
  • 2 Hours Ghost Tour - English Tour Guide: $19
  • 2 and a Half Hour - Walking Tour of Edinburgh’s New Town: $32
  • 3 Days - Isle of Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh: $335
  • 3 Hours Edinburgh City Highlights Private Walking Tour: $271
  • 3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh: $216
  • A History of Witchcraft in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • A Silent Disco Adventure at the Fringe for August in Edinburgh : $28
  • Alnwick Castle and Rosslyn Chapel Day Tour from Edinburgh: $126

Tours and Activities in San Francisco

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Francisco.

  • Muir Woods and Sausalito Morning Tour Small-Group Half Day: $99
  • San Francisco Afternoon City Tour Small-Group Half-Day : $79
  • "Summer of Love" tour in Haight-Ashbury in French: $63
  • 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour Plus Night Tour: $73
  • 2hr - INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $134
  • 2hr - SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $134
  • 2hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests: $795
  • 3HR Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park GoCar Tour: $172
  • 4-Hour Painted Ladies and Haight-Ashbury GoCar Tour: $272
  • 90 Minute Daytime Tour Aboard Wine Therapy: $80
  • 90-Minute Sunset Tour Aboard Wine Therapy: $90
  • Airplane San Francisco Sunset Flight Tour: $299

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Museums in San Francisco, The Best Outdoor Activities in San Francisco, and Things to Do In San Francisco on a Rainy Day.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Edinburgh $19
    San Francisco $22
Typical Alcohol Prices in Edinburgh

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


  • Beer & Wine
    $18
  • Half Pint at Tollbooth Tavern
    $2.04

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
  • Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour with "Real-Actors": $25
  • Pub Crawl 7 Bars with 6 Shots: $25
  • Port of Leith Distillery Tour & Tasting: $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
  • Pickering's Distillery Tasting Tour (Gin Jolly): $31
  • Whisky Tasting Experience at Summerhall Distillery: $31

Sample the Local Flavors in San Francisco

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in San Francisco:

  • Private Self Guided Tour and Bar Crawl in Chinatown San Francisco: $5.00
  • SF Pub Crawl and Clubbing Experience: $24
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • San Francisco Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $37
  • Local Distillery Cocktail Class, Skyline Views, City History: $42
  • Walk with Spirits: A Haunted Pub Crawl in San Francisco: $48
  • 2 to 3 Hour Bar Crawl in Castro San Francisco: $49
  • Wine Tasting on the Bay: $85
  • Napa Valley Half-Day Wine Tour with Tastings: $104
  • Half-Day Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings: $126
  • From Napa & Sonoma Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $140
  • From Napa & Sonoma Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $140


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


Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and San Francisco, 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 San Francisco?

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 San Francisco in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and San Francisco. 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 San Francisco because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In July, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Edinburgh 14°C (58°F) 
    San Francisco 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Edinburgh or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as San Francisco. 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. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

In October, Edinburgh is generally much colder than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Edinburgh 10°C (49°F) 
    San Francisco 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Edinburgh or San Francisco in the Winter?

Both San Francisco and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. Edinburgh is much colder than San Francisco in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Edinburgh 3°C (38°F) 
    San Francisco 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Edinburgh or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Edinburgh during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Edinburgh is much colder than San Francisco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and San Francisco averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in April than San Francisco. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Edinburgh 7°C (45°F) 
    San Francisco 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Edinburgh

Edinburgh San Francisco
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 10°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)