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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Basel?

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 Basel. 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.

Basel

Basel is a cultural, museum-filled, and easily accessible city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Basel: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Basel. Although Isle of Skye and Basel are popular destinations, Basel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Basel is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Basel and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town. It is also well known for The Kunstmuseum Basel.

How is Isle of Skye different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Basel 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 Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Isle of Skye is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Isle of Skye or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Basel 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 Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Basel Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is notable for the beache. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a beach destination.

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

Basel 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 Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Basel Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

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.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Basel?

Basel is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Basel Better for Families?

Basel 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.

Basel is a very family-friendly destination. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

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 Basel Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Basel is a good island for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

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

Isle of Skye is notable for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Basel is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Isle of Skye or Basel Better for Students?

Basel is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Many students visit Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Basel is fairly effecient and thorough. Trams and buses make it easy to get 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 Basel a more walkable city?

Basel is terrific for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Basel. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Basel?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Isle of Skye than Basel. 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 Basel?

In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this picturesque destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Basel, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vibrant city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Basel 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 Basel?

Isle of Skye is a fun place to experience. In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Basel. 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 Basel?

You'll find food around the scenic destination of Isle of Skye. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Basel 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.

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

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 Basel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Basel?

Basel 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 Basel, 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 Basel?

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 Basel in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Isle of Skye is much colder than Basel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Basel averages at about 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Basel. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Basel. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in July than Basel. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Basel 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 Basel because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Basel. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Basel during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 120 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 Basel. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Basel 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. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

It's quite cold in Basel in the winter. The weather in Isle of Skye can be very cold. Isle of Skye is a little warmer than Basel in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Basel. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 55 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 Basel. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

In the spring, Isle of Skye is much colder than Basel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Basel averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Basel during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Basel. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Basel and Isle of Skye