A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inverness vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Inverness or Barcelona?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Barcelona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a cultural, traditional, and local city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a friendly, high energy, and youthful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Inverness and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Inverness or Barcelona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona. Although Inverness and Barcelona are popular destinations, Barcelona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Barcelona is very popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Inverness attracts visitors for its small town charm. Barcelona is more touristy than Inverness and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Inverness is famous for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness.

How is Inverness different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inverness or Barcelona?

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Inverness and Barcelona.

Many visitors head to Inverness specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Inverness or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Inverness and Barcelona.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Barcelona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Barcelona is a must-see party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is terrific for its live music scene. However, Inverness is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Inverness is not a live music destination.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is very good for the beache. However, Inverness is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Inverness is not a beach destination.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a well-known place for its old town. However, Inverness does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Barcelona?

Barcelona is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Inverness. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Inverness or Barcelona.

Inverness is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Both Inverness and Barcelona are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Inverness makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

Barcelona is a good city for couples to visit. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is terrific for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is terrific for students. However, Inverness is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Inverness is not popular with students.

Is Inverness or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Barcelona has some very good public transit options. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

Is Inverness or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Inverness is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Inverness is very walkable. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Inverness Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Barcelona?

Both Inverness and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Inverness. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Inverness, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Inverness 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 Barcelona.

One day in Inverness or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Inverness. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Inverness has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Inverness or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Inverness. 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.

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Inverness or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Inverness. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Barcelona 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Inverness or Barcelona?

Inverness is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, 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 London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Inverness and Barcelona, we can see that Inverness is more expensive. And not only is Barcelona much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Barcelona would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Barcelona 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 Inverness would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Inverness than you might in Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Inverness or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Inverness. When comparing the sizes of Inverness and Barcelona, 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 Inverness or Barcelona?

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 Inverness or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Inverness are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Inverness for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Inverness is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 14°C (58°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Inverness usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Inverness or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Inverness during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Inverness in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Inverness is much colder than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in October than Barcelona. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Inverness or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Inverness and Barcelona. Most visitors come to Inverness for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Inverness can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Inverness is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Inverness in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Inverness usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Inverness or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Inverness as well as Barcelona. The spring months attract visitors to Inverness because of the small town charm. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In April, Inverness is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 7°C (44°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. In the spring, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in April than Barcelona. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Inverness