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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a vibrant, friendly, and relaxed city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Toulouse: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Toulouse than Isle of Skye, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Toulouse is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Isle of Skye is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Toulouse and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. Also, Toulouse is famous for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Isle of Skye different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Toulouse 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 Toulouse, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

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

Toulouse has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Toulouse Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Isle of Skye is great for the beach. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Toulouse Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Isle of Skye is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Toulouse?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Toulouse Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is a very family-friendly destination. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Isle of Skye and Toulouse both very good 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 Toulouse frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

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

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Isle of Skye is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.


Is Isle of Skye or Toulouse Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Toulouse is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

Toulouse 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.

Toulouse has some public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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 Toulouse a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Toulouse

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

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore 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 Toulouse Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Isle of Skye or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Toulouse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Toulouse 2-4

One day in Isle of Skye or Toulouse?

The beautiful island of Isle of Skye offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Toulouse, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this dynamic 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 Toulouse?

Isle of Skye is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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.

Toulouse 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. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Toulouse?

Isle of Skye is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Toulouse. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Toulouse?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Toulouse 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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 Toulouse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Toulouse £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Toulouse £114
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Toulouse

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


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: Toulouse Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Toulouse £35

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 Toulouse

Also for Toulouse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from BLAGNAC Airport to all other destinations in Toulouse: $53
  • Transfer Toulouse to Carcassonne center: $240
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse city centre to Toulouse Airport: $66
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse Airport to City centre: $67
  • Private transfer your alternative to taxi for your travels: $93
  • Private transfer from or to Toulouse Airport: $87
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toulouse to Toulouse Airport TLS in Luxury Van: $92
  • Arrival Transfer Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse by Car or Van: $41

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

Prices for flights to both Toulouse 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
    Toulouse £29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulouse

For Toulouse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • No Diet Club - Best food tour in Toulouse !: $52
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $76
  • Traditional Toulouse Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Victor Hugo Market Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $105
  • Marché Victor Hugo Small Group Food Tour: $107

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Toulouse £13

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 Toulouse

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

  • Aeroscopia Admission Ticket: $16
  • Day Trip to Carcassonne Cite Medievale and Comtale Castle Tour from Toulouse: $35
  • Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Toulouse with Official Tour Guide: $255
  • Private tour of Toulouse in an electric Tuk Tuk: $66
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Toulouse : Must-see Walking Tour: $80
  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.13
  • Toulouse : Walking tour with audio guide: $5.29
  • Toulouse E Bike Tour: $49
  • Toulouse E-Bike Tour: $48
  • Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef: $118
  • Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef (in English): $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Toulouse £6.42

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulouse

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Toulouse:

  • Pub Crawl Toulouse: $20
  • From Toulouse Cite de carcassonne et wine tasting: $530


When comparing the travel costs between Isle of Skye and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Toulouse. 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 Toulouse because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulouse this time of the year. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Toulouse. 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 natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Toulouse in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 161 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 Toulouse. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F)

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

Both Toulouse and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Isle of Skye in the winter. In the winter, Isle of Skye is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Toulouse averages at about 6°C (44°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 88 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 Toulouse. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F)

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

Both Toulouse and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Toulouse in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulouse. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in April than Toulouse. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Toulouse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)