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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Dundee?

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 Dundee. 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.

Dundee

Dundee is a coastal, cultural, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Dundee: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dundee. Although Isle of Skye and Dundee are both popular with visitors, Dundee has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dundee is more popular for its museums, nightlife, 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 Dundee and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Dundee is popular for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design. It is also home to Discovery Point and RRS Discovery.

How is Isle of Skye different from Dundee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dundee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. On the waterfront you'll find a couple of nautical museums such as RRS Discovery, and HM Frigate Unicorn. Other museums and sights include V&A Dundee, Tay Rail Bridge, Camperdown Wildlife Centre, and Glamis Castle.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dundee 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.

Dundee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a few local dishes that the city is known for. These include Dundee Cake, Dundee marmalade, and Angus beef.

Is Isle of Skye or Dundee Better for Nightlife?

Dundee 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 Dundee. The vibrant student population heavily influences the city's nightlife. There are a number of clubs and bars where you can hang out late into the night.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Dundee Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Dundee 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.

Dundee is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Dundee Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Dundee 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.

Dundee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Dundee?

Dundee is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dundee is a good destination for shopping. There are shopping centers and a few independent shops that are worth checking out. Head to Overgate Shopping Centre for the standard brands or Dundee's Farmer's Market for some local produce.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Dundee Better for Families?

Both Isle of Skye and Dundee are good family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Dundee. Head to the Dundee Science Center or check out Discovery Point. There's also the Dundee Treasure Trail as well as climbing walls and other outdoor activities for when the weather's nice.

Is Isle of Skye or Dundee Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city 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.

Most people don't think of Dundee as a couple's destination. The coastal city has some nice outdoor spaces and interesting restaurants that couples can enjoy.

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

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Dundee 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.

Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Dundee Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Dundee. Its affordability and authenticity make this a nice option for students. It's also a very safe city.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Dundee 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.

Dundee has some public transit options. The city has a public bus system.

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 Dundee a more walkable city?

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

Dundee is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walks through the town.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Dundee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isle of Skye or Dundee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Isle of Skye than Dundee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-2 days is enough time in Dundee.

Couples should spend more time in Isle of Skye than Dundee. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye than Dundee 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 Isle of Skye.

One day in Isle of Skye or Dundee?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Isle of Skye. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Dundee, many people enjoy the food and museums that this coastal city offers. 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 Dundee?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dundee 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Dundee?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the cultural destination of Dundee. 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 Dundee?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the stunning destination of Isle of Skye. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dundee 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 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isle of Skye and Dundee, we can see that Dundee 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 Dundee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dundee 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 Dundee Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Dundee?

Dundee 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 Dundee, 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 Dundee?

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 Dundee in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Dundee. 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 Dundee for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Dundee. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dundee receives 184 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Dundee. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Dundee 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 Dundee 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 Dundee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Dundee averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Dundee during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Dundee receives 100 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 Dundee. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Dundee 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 Dundee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dundee 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 Dundee. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Dundee fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Dundee. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dundee receives 58 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 Dundee. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

Isle of Skye is around the same temperature as Dundee in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Dundee fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Dundee during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Dundee receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Dundee. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dundee and Isle of Skye