A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

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 Kuala Lumpur and Edinburgh. 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.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a friendly, diverse, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a charming, character-filled, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include live music, shopping, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Kuala Lumpur. While Kuala Lumpur is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Edinburgh is very popular for its theatre productions, music, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors for its food, shopping, and big city activities. Edinburgh is more touristy than Kuala Lumpur and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle. Kuala Lumpur is famous for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants.

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edinburgh and Kuala Lumpur. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

Spend time exploring the fantastic sights and museums in either Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh.

Travelers visit Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for theatre. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Kuala Lumpur is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Kuala Lumpur have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kuala Lumpur and Edinburgh.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for live music. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is known as a music capital around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Kuala Lumpur is not a live music destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Edinburgh is revered around the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Kuala Lumpur draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Edinburgh are very good family-friendly destinations.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Edinburgh is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur and Edinburgh both very good destinations for a couple.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular city for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Many students visit Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Kuala Lumpur can take you anywhere. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

In either Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Edinburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Edinburgh than Kuala Lumpur. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Kuala Lumpur 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this gothic 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 Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Edinburgh 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 Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this gothic destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

Kuala Lumpur is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Edinburgh 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 Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur is in Asia and Edinburgh is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh than you might in Kuala Lumpur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive? and Is Edinburgh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Edinburgh, 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 Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Kuala Lumpur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Edinburgh. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Edinburgh. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Edinburgh. Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Edinburgh in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Edinburgh. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Edinburgh. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Kuala Lumpur