A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Isle of Skye vs. Aberdeen for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Aberdeen. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a dramatic, scenic, and picturesque island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a cultural, architectural, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Isle of Skye and Aberdeen are both popular with visitors, Aberdeen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aberdeen is more popular for its museums & sights, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Isle of Skye is known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Aberdeen and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Aberdeen is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also home to St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Isle of Skye different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Aberdeen is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Aberdeen. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Isle of Skye makes for a great culinary experience. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Aberdeen is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is considered a top beach destination. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Aberdeen is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

People visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Aberdeen is a good destination for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Aberdeen is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for Students?

Aberdeen is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aberdeen is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Aberdeen has some public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Aberdeen is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Aberdeen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Aberdeen. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aberdeen.

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

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

One day in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

The beautiful island of Isle of Skye offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Aberdeen, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this architectural city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Isle of Skye is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Aberdeen is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Isle of Skye is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Aberdeen is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 2-Week Tours from London, The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom.

When comparing the travel costs between Isle of Skye and Aberdeen, we can see that Aberdeen 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Aberdeen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and Aberdeen, 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 Isle of Skye or Aberdeen?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Aberdeen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Aberdeen. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Aberdeen in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Aberdeen. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

Both Aberdeen and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Aberdeen in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Aberdeen during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Aberdeen. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Aberdeen in the Winter?

Both Aberdeen and Isle of Skye during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Aberdeen can be very cold during winter. Isle of Skye can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Isle of Skye is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Aberdeen. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Isle of Skye. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Aberdeen. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Aberdeen in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Aberdeen. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the activities around the city.

Isle of Skye is around the same temperature as Aberdeen in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Aberdeen. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Isle of Skye