A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Inner Hebrides vs. Edinburgh for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a natural, peaceful, and tranquil islands. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

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.

Inner Hebrides and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Inner Hebrides and Edinburgh are popular destinations, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Inner Hebrides attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and hiking. Edinburgh is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is known 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. Inner Hebrides is famous for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

How is Inner Hebrides different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edinburgh and Inner Hebrides. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides 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.

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for theatre. However, Inner Hebrides is not a theatre destination.

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.

Inner Hebrides is not a theatre destination.

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

Inner Hebrides is a islands with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Inner Hebrides has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

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 Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Inner Hebrides 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a live music destination.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

Inner Hebrides is a very popular place for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Inner Hebrides attract visitors from all over. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Inner Hebrides 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.

Inner Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Hiking?

Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for shopping. However, Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Edinburgh is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Inner Hebrides. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Inner Hebrides and Edinburgh make for a excellent place to visit.

Inner Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

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 Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Inner Hebrides is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Inner Hebrides is not popular with 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.

Inner Hebrides is not popular with students.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh 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, Inner Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.

Is Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Inner Hebrides?

How long in Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

In either Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Edinburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Edinburgh than Inner Hebrides. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Inner Hebrides, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

You'll find food around the islands of Inner Hebrides. 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.

In Edinburgh, you'll find nightlife and live music. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

You'll find food around the tranquil destination of Inner Hebrides. 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 islands offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

You'll find food around the tranquil islands of Inner Hebrides. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this islands makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this islands has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Inner Hebrides or Edinburgh?

Inner Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the quaint city of Edinburgh. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

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 comparing the travel costs between Inner Hebrides and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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