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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Nottingham?

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 Nottingham. 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. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a livable, cultural, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

Isle of Skye and Nottingham: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nottingham. Although Isle of Skye and Nottingham are both popular with visitors, Nottingham has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nottingham is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, 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 Nottingham and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also home to Old Market Square.

How is Isle of Skye different from Nottingham?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

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

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

Isle of Skye is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Isle of Skye or Nottingham Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

Nottingham 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 Nottingham. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Nottingham Better for Music?

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

Nottingham is a good destination for live music. However, Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Nottingham Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

Isle of Skye is well known for its beaches. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Nottingham Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

Isle of Skye is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Nottingham?

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nottingham. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Nottingham Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

Both Isle of Skye and Nottingham 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 Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Is Isle of Skye or Nottingham Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

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

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.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

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

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

Isle of Skye is well known for backpackers. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

Nottingham 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 Nottingham is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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 Nottingham a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Nottingham

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

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Nottingham?

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

Couples should spend more time in Isle of Skye than Nottingham. 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Nottingham 1-2

One day in Isle of Skye or Nottingham?

With food around the diverse island of Isle of Skye, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Nottingham, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic 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 Nottingham?

With food around the destination of Isle of Skye, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Nottingham 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 Nottingham?

Isle of Skye, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the dynamic destination of Nottingham. 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 Nottingham?

Isle of Skye is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nottingham 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, Nottingham 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 Nottingham is £117. 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 Nottingham in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Nottingham £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Nottingham £128
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Nottingham

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


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Nottingham £21

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $223
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $96
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

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

Prices for flights to both Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Nottingham £28

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 Nottingham

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

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $278
  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $151
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Nottingham £7.10

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


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


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Nottingham?

Nottingham 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 Nottingham, 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 Nottingham?

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 Nottingham in the Summer?

Both Nottingham 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 Nottingham because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Nottingham in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Nottingham fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Nottingham. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nottingham receives 196 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Nottingham. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F)

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

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

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Nottingham. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Nottingham averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Nottingham during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Nottingham receives 112 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 Nottingham. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F)

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

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nottingham. It's quite cold in Isle of Skye in the winter. In January, Isle of Skye is generally a little warmer than Nottingham. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Nottingham fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Nottingham. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nottingham receives 61 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 Nottingham. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F)

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

Both Nottingham 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. Also, many visitors come to Nottingham in the spring for the activities around the city.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Nottingham in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Nottingham fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Nottingham during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Nottingham receives 151 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Nottingham. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Nottingham and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Nottingham
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)