A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Aberdeen for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Aberdeen can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, high energy, and livable port city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a cultural, architectural, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aberdeen than Newcastle upon Tyne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aberdeen is better known for its big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Aberdeen is well known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Also, Aberdeen is famous for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aberdeen and Newcastle upon Tyne. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Aberdeen and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Aberdeen can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newcastle upon Tyne makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Newcastle upon Tyne offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Aberdeen are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Many visitors go to Aberdeen to see the historical old town. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Newcastle upon Tyne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Aberdeen is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Aberdeen. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Aberdeen are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. 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.

Aberdeen is a nice destination for couples. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for students. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Aberdeen has some public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Aberdeen is a very walkable port city. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Aberdeen. In our opinion, Newcastle upon Tyne has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Aberdeen. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Aberdeen. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Newcastle upon Tyne that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Aberdeen 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

The port city of Newcastle upon Tyne offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Aberdeen, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newcastle upon Tyne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Aberdeen for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aberdeen, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The destination of Aberdeen offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

When comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Aberdeen, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Expensive? and Is Aberdeen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne and Aberdeen, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Aberdeen. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Aberdeen. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

Both Aberdeen and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year.

In October, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 10°C (49°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Aberdeen during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Aberdeen. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen in the Winter?

Both Aberdeen and Newcastle upon Tyne during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Aberdeen. It's quite cold in Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Aberdeen in the winter. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Aberdeen. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle upon Tyne. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Aberdeen. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Aberdeen in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Aberdeen. Also, many visitors come to Aberdeen in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Aberdeen. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Newcastle upon Tyne