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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Giverny?

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 Giverny. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Giverny

Giverny is a serene, inspiring, and picturesque town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Isle of Skye and Giverny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Home and Gardens of Claude Monet
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Giverny. Although Isle of Skye and Giverny are popular destinations, Giverny has more sights and attractions for tourists. Giverny is very popular for its museums and small town charm, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and hiking. Giverny is more touristy than Isle of Skye and is known for being the home and inspiration for Claude Monet. It is also well known for The Home and Gardens of Claude Monet. Isle of Skye is famous for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles.

How is Isle of Skye different from Giverny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Isle of Skye
Giverny

Giverny 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 Giverny. The town is most notable as the home of Claude Monet between 1883 and 1926. Highlights of a visit include visiting Jardin d'Eau (The Water Garden), The Normandy Garden, and Monet's House.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Isle of Skye
Giverny

Isle of Skye is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Isle of Skye has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Giverny area. There are cozy cafes and charming restaurants in the town. If you visit as part of a tour, a restaurant stop may be included.

Is Isle of Skye or Giverny Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Giverny

Isle of Skye is great for the beache. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Giverny Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Giverny

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a hiking destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Giverny Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Giverny

Isle of Skye is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Giverny is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Isle of Skye offers lots of family activities. 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.

Giverny is not the most family-friendly destination. The gardens are stunning and the house is impressive, but it's best to prepare younger kids with some activities beforehand. Even the most art-minded children will appreciate a hands-on activity that helps bring the experience to life.

Is Isle of Skye or Giverny Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Giverny

Isle of Skye and Giverny both superb 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 Giverny frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The setting seeped in romance and the gardens bring art to life. On occasion you may even see a young couple get engaged during their visit.

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

Isle of Skye
Giverny

Isle of Skye is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Giverny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many people, backpackers included, visit the town as a day trip from Paris. It's possible to visit by train and shuttle bus.


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

Isle of Skye
Giverny

Giverny 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.

Giverny has some public transit options. You can reach Giverny by train from Paris. You'll leave from the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris and arrive in the town of Vernon. The trip is about 45 minutes. From there you can take a bus or taxi on to Giverny.

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 Giverny a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Giverny

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

Giverny is somewhat walkable. Many people choose to walk between the town of Vernon and Giverny, both of which are worth visiting. They're separated by about 6 kilometers (3.5 miles).

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Giverny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isle of Skye or Giverny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Isle of Skye than Giverny 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 Giverny.

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

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


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

One day in Isle of Skye or Giverny?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Giverny, many people enjoy the museums and food that this serene town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in Isle of Skye or Giverny?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer.

Giverny 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 Giverny?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and food around the serene destination of Giverny. 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 Giverny?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Giverny 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 Coach Bus Tours in France, and The Best Adventure Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Giverny 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 Giverny is £107. 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 Giverny in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye or Giverny? 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 Giverny


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Giverny £41

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 Giverny?

Prices for flights to both Giverny 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
    Giverny £30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Giverny £22

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 Giverny

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Giverny.

  • Bike tour from Vernon to Giverny with local guide: $37
  • Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour: $60
  • Giverny Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $278
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $256
  • Monet's House and Gardens Guided Tour: $62
  • Monet’s House and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour: $59
  • Guided Tour of Monet's Gardens/small group: $63
  • Guided tour Monet's house and gardens/small group: $64
  • Trip from Paris to Monet's house in Giverny Skip the Line: $96

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Giverny £5.68


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


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Giverny?

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

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 Isle of Skye or Giverny in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Giverny. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Giverny for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is much colder than Giverny. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Giverny averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Giverny this time of the year. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Giverny during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Giverny. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Giverny 20°C (68°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Giverny. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Giverny in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Giverny. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 127 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than Giverny. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Giverny 13°C (56°F)

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

Both Giverny and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Giverny for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Giverny can be very cold during winter. Isle of Skye can get quite cold in the winter. Isle of Skye is around the same temperature as Giverny in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Giverny fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Giverny during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Giverny. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Giverny 5°C (40°F)

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

Both Giverny and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Giverny because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is much colder than Giverny. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Giverny averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Giverny. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 172 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in April than Giverny. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Giverny 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Giverny and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Giverny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)