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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a historical, vibrant, and high energy port city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Newcastle upon Tyne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne than Isle of Skye, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newcastle upon Tyne is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Isle of Skye is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for The Tyne Bridge.

How is Isle of Skye different from Newcastle upon Tyne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Isle of Skye and Newcastle upon Tyne.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

Is Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Nightlife?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is a very popular place for the beach. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Families?

Both Isle of Skye and Newcastle upon Tyne are notable 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Is Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Is Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne is fairly effecient and thorough. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is terrific for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Isle of Skye 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.

One day in Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne?

In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Lots of people come for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Newcastle upon Tyne, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this high energy port city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

Many people visit Isle of Skye for a weekend. Lots of people come for the hiking. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, five days is sufficent for most.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This island offers something for everyone. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne in the Summer?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Newcastle upon Tyne. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newcastle upon Tyne during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 159 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Newcastle upon Tyne. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Autumn?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Isle of Skye during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the shopping scene during these months.

Isle of Skye is around the same temperature as Newcastle upon Tyne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Newcastle upon Tyne fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 69 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Isle of Skye. Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in October than Newcastle upon Tyne. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Newcastle upon Tyne. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Isle of Skye is a little warmer than Newcastle upon Tyne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newcastle upon Tyne during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Newcastle upon Tyne. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Newcastle upon Tyne. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Newcastle upon Tyne. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 134 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in April than Newcastle upon Tyne. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Newcastle upon Tyne and Isle of Skye