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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Liverpool?

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 Liverpool. 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 stunning, diverse, and dramatic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a historic, fun-filled, and diverse port city. Other reasons to visit include live music, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Liverpool: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Liverpool. Although Isle of Skye and Liverpool are popular destinations, Liverpool has more sights and attractions for tourists. Liverpool is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Liverpool and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Liverpool is famous for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." It is also well known for The Liverpool Cathedral.

How is Isle of Skye different from Liverpool?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

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

Liverpool is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Isle of Skye or Liverpool Better for Theater?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Liverpool is a very popular place for theatre. However, Isle of Skye is not a theatre destination.

Liverpool offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Isle of Skye is not a theatre destination.

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

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Isle of Skye is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Liverpool may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a diversity of flavors that are influenced by the city's international population. There are also several famous local dishes including scouse (a meat stew), toad in the hole (a giant yorkie stuffed with British sausages) and wet nelly (a dessert).

Is Isle of Skye or Liverpool Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Liverpool is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Liverpool has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife is fun and diverse Head to the waterfront for comedy clubs or the Ropewalks and Seel Street if you want a swanky experience. Cavern Quarter is the place to go for an all night party.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Isle of Skye or Liverpool Better for Music?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Liverpool is terrific for live music. However, Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.

Liverpool is known as a music capital around the world. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Liverpool Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

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

The beaches at Isle of Skye attract visitors from all over. 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.

Liverpool is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Liverpool Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Isle of Skye is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Liverpool is not a hiking destination.

Around Isle of Skye visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Liverpool is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Liverpool?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Liverpool. Head to Liverpool ONE for the area's best shopping. This is the largest open-air shopping center in the UK and it's filled with a mix of name brands and independent vendors.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Liverpool Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Liverpool 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.

Liverpool is a very family-friendly destination. One of the most popular activities for families is Pleasureland, an amuseument park with rides that are fun for young kids. The city also has many museums and play spaces that are great for families.

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 Liverpool Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Isle of Skye is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Liverpool is a good island for couples to visit. The city is fun, and the best way to enjoy a romantic getaway is to find a fun or unique activity that you can enjoy together. Going dancing, dining out, or seeing a show are all fun activities in the area.


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

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Isle of Skye is well known for backpackers. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Liverpool. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Is Isle of Skye or Liverpool Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

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

Many students visit Liverpool. The city is diverse, affordable, and offers an excellent academic environment. International students will fill welcomed and enjoy a fun city with a lot to offer.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

Liverpool 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.

Liverpool has some public transit options. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

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 Liverpool a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Liverpool

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

Liverpool is very walkable.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Liverpool?

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

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


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

One day in Isle of Skye or Liverpool?

You'll find food around the island of Isle of Skye. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Liverpool, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this historic port city offers. 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 Liverpool?

You'll find food around the scenic destination of Isle of Skye. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Liverpool 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 live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Isle of Skye or Liverpool?

You'll find food around the stunning island of Isle of Skye. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the historic destination of Liverpool. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Liverpool?

Isle of Skye is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Liverpool 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.


Which place is cheaper, Liverpool 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 Liverpool is £161. 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 Liverpool in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Liverpool £76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Liverpool £152
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Liverpool

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


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: Liverpool Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Liverpool £26

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Liverpool

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Liverpool:


  • City bike hire Liverpool
    £6.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Liverpool

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Liverpool:

  • Private Transfer from Warrington to Manchester Airport (MAN): $69
  • Private Transfer from Stockton Heath to Manchester Airport (MAN): $64
  • Private Transfer from Liverpool Airport (LPL) to Holyhead Port: $103
  • Private Transfer from Knutsford to Manchester Airport (MAN): $64
  • Private Liverpool Departure Transfer - Liverpool Hotel / Accomm To Airport: $50
  • Private Liverpool Arrival Transfer:Liverpool John Lennon Airport to Hotel/Accomm: $50
  • Private Departure Transfer from Liverpool City Center to Liverpool Airport (LPL): $47
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Liverpool: $6.86
  • Beatles-Themed Private Taxi Tour with Transfers: $162
  • BUS Transfer to/from John Lennon Airport: $5.75
  • Liverpool to Manchester Airport(MAN) - Departure Private Transfer: $79
  • Liverpool to Liverpool Airport (LPL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Liverpool?

Prices for flights to both Liverpool 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
    Liverpool £59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Liverpool

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Liverpool.

  • Brewery Bus Tour with Beer Tasting and Pizza: $81
  • Brewery bus tour, 5 breweries, 12 beers, 1 pizza, 1 bus: $89
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Liverpool £36

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 Liverpool

Here are a few actual costs in Liverpool for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • A Hope Street Stroll: A self-guided tour from the Metropolitan Cathedral to LIPA: $5.20
  • A Walk Through Time: History of Liverpool Walking Tour: $22
  • Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience in Liverpool: $51
  • Awesome Corners of Liverpool – Family Walking Tour: $286
  • BEST OF LIVERPOOL History & Culture Tour-From The Cruise Terminal: $27
  • BEST OF LIVERPOOL-Heritage, History & Culture Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Beatles & Beyond: A Liverpool Legacy Tour: $303
  • Beatles Classic Tour of Liverpool by Private Taxi: $234
  • Beatles Famous Walking Tour Of Liverpool-From the Cruise Terminal: $27
  • Beatles Magical Mystery Tour: $25
  • Best of Liverpool Sightseeing Tour by Private Taxi: $252
  • Brews, Views, football & History Tour: $82

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Liverpool £13

Sample the Local Flavors in Liverpool

Also in Liverpool, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • FunnyBoyz Liverpool - Drag Shows, Tributes, Brunches & Bar Crawls: $19
  • Liverpool Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $50
  • Pirate Pub Crawl & Boat Tour: $56


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


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Liverpool?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and Liverpool, 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 Liverpool?

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 Liverpool in the Summer?

Both Liverpool and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is cooler than Liverpool. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Liverpool averages at about 15°C (60°F).

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Liverpool. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liverpool receives 176 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Liverpool. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Liverpool. The autumn months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the music scene are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Liverpool. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Liverpool fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Liverpool during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Liverpool receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Liverpool. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Liverpool. The cuisine are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Liverpool for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Isle of Skye in the winter. Isle of Skye is cooler than Liverpool in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Liverpool fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Liverpool. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liverpool receives 53 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Liverpool. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F)

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

Both Liverpool and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is cooler than Liverpool. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Liverpool averages at about 8°C (47°F).

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

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Liverpool. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Liverpool 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Liverpool and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Liverpool
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)