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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Paris?

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 Paris. 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. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Isle of Skye and Paris: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris. Although Isle of Skye and Paris are both popular with visitors, Paris has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Isle of Skye is known for its beaches and hiking. Paris is more touristy than Isle of Skye and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Isle of Skye is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Isle of Skye different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris is terrific for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Isle of Skye or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is terrific for theatre. However, Isle of Skye is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Isle of Skye is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is terrific for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Paris Better for Music?

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

Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Paris Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is great for its beaches. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Paris Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is terrific for hiking. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Paris?

Paris is terrific for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Isle of Skye does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Isle of Skye does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Isle of Skye or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is terrific for romance. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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.

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

Paris is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Paris Better for Students?

Paris is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Paris is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

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

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Paris?

Both Isle of Skye and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Isle of Skye. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Isle of Skye. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.

One day in Isle of Skye or Paris?

In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this scenic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Paris?

Isle of Skye is a fun place to experience. In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Isle of Skye or Paris?

You'll find food around the dramatic destination of Isle of Skye. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Paris. 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 Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

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

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

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Paris. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Paris. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris 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 Paris. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Paris 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 Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. Isle of Skye can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Isle of Skye is generally around the same temperature as Paris. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Paris during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Paris 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 Paris. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Paris 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 Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

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

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

Typical Weather for Paris and Isle of Skye