A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Baden-Baden for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

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 Baden-Baden. 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 picturesque, stunning, and diverse island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a peaceful, historic, and relaxing spa town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Isle of Skye and Baden-Baden: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baden-Baden. Although Isle of Skye and Baden-Baden are popular destinations, Baden-Baden has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baden-Baden is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Baden-Baden and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Baden-Baden is famous for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals. It is also well known for The Thermal Baths.

How is Isle of Skye different from Baden-Baden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Baden-Baden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Baden-Baden, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isle of Skye. 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.

Is Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for the beache. However, Baden-Baden is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Isle of Skye. 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.

Baden-Baden is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Isle of Skye is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Isle of Skye draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Baden-Baden. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Baden-Baden. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden 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.

Baden-Baden is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

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 Baden-Baden Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Isle of Skye and Baden-Baden both great destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Baden-Baden frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

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

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Isle of Skye is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

Baden-Baden is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find a hostel or two in town, but most of the tourists aren't backpackers so you may have trouble meeting other like-minded travelers.

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

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.

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 Baden-Baden a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a good destination for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

Baden-Baden is somewhat walkable. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Baden-Baden or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Baden-Baden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Baden-Baden. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-3 days is enough time in Baden-Baden.

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

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


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Baden-Baden 1-3

One day in Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the picturesque island of Isle of Skye. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Baden-Baden, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this peaceful spa town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this spa town.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the dramatic destination of Isle of Skye. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Baden-Baden is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the dramatic island of Isle of Skye. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Baden-Baden. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Baden-Baden?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Baden-Baden is a popular place to visit. 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Baden-Baden or Isle of Skye?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Baden-Baden is £132. 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 Isle of Skye and Baden-Baden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Baden-Baden £75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Baden-Baden £150
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Baden-Baden

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden? 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 Isle of Skye


Hotels in Baden-Baden


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: Baden-Baden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Baden-Baden £28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

Prices for flights to both Baden-Baden and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Baden-Baden £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Baden-Baden £29

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

Tours and Activities in Baden-Baden

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Baden-Baden are as follows:

  • Baden-Baden Private walking tour: $374
  • Baden-Baden Yuletide Stroll: Experience the Festive Charm: $359
  • Christmas Market Walking Tour: $254
  • Powerful Women Themed Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Private Guided KNUMO e-Scooter Tour VIP: $138
  • Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $248
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $232
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $252
  • Private Walking Tour in Baden Neuweirs Vineyard: $653
  • Romance in Baden-Baden – Private Walking Tour: $252
  • Scenic Baden-Baden Walking Tour: Discovering Historic Charm: $373

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Baden-Baden £10


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


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden?

Baden-Baden has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and Baden-Baden, 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 Baden-Baden?

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 Baden-Baden in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Baden-Baden. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Baden-Baden for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is much colder than Baden-Baden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Baden-Baden averages at about 20°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baden-Baden. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Baden-Baden. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baden-Baden receives 231 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Baden-Baden. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Baden-Baden 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden in the Autumn?

Both Baden-Baden and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Baden-Baden because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Baden-Baden. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Baden-Baden during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Baden-Baden receives 91 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 Baden-Baden. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Baden-Baden 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden in the Winter?

Both Baden-Baden and Isle of Skye during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Baden-Baden this time of year.

It's quite cold in Baden-Baden in the winter. The weather in Isle of Skye can be very cold. Isle of Skye is much warmer than Baden-Baden in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets more sunshine than Baden-Baden. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baden-Baden receives 35 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 Baden-Baden. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Baden-Baden 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Baden-Baden in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Baden-Baden. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is much colder than Baden-Baden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Baden-Baden averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Baden-Baden during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Baden-Baden receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Baden-Baden. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Baden-Baden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Baden-Baden and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Baden-Baden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 2°C (35°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)