A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Dover for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover?

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 Dover can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a high energy, livable, and cultural port city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dover

Dover is a breathtaking, iconic, and rustic town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Dover: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Although Newcastle upon Tyne and Dover are popular destinations, Newcastle upon Tyne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Dover attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Tyne Bridge. Dover is famous for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Dover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.


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

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

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

Dining out in Newcastle upon Tyne is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dover. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Dover does not have a historic old town.

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.

Dover does not have a historic old town.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover Better for Hiking?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Dover is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Newcastle upon Tyne. 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover Better for Families?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Dover. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Dover is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Dover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. 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.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Newcastle upon Tyne and Dover are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. 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.

Dover is not popular with students.


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

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Newcastle upon Tyne can get you to most places easily. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Dover

Newcastle upon Tyne is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

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

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover?

It's fun to spend time in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dover due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dover.

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

Couples should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Dover. 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 Dover 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.


  • How many days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newcastle upon Tyne 2-3 
    Dover 2-4

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This port city 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.

In Dover, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Dover?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Many people visit Dover for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dover, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The beautiful destination of Dover offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover?

You'll find food and shopping around the livable destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Dover. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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.


Which place is cheaper, Dover or Newcastle upon Tyne?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Newcastle upon Tyne is £130, while the average daily cost in Dover is £124. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Dover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newcastle upon Tyne £51
    Dover £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newcastle upon Tyne £102
    Dover £124
Compare Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne and Dover

Looking for a hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover? 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 Newcastle upon Tyne


Hotels in Dover


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: Newcastle upon Tyne Hotel Prices and Dover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £12
    Dover £39
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Newcastle upon Tyne:


  • Parking
    £1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle upon Tyne

Also for Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $55
  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Club - Round-Trip Transfer: $65
  • Newcastle Airport to Newcastle Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $104

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $254

Is it cheaper to fly into Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover?

Prices for flights to both Dover and Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £68
    Dover £38
Typical Food Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newcastle upon Tyne

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

  • The Ultimate Cheese & Wine Food Tour: $83
  • Newcastle Street Food Tour: $88
  • A Taste Of Newcastle Food Tour: $89
  • Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £17
    Dover £20

Tours and Activities in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins: $5.20
  • Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket: $16
  • Private Bike Tour of Berwick: $19
  • Newcastle Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Sunderland by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Newcastle True Crime Walking Tour: $23
  • 1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour: $23
  • 1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle: $25
  • Guided Walks and Tours, Seahouses, Beadnell & Bamburgh: $29
  • Northumberland Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Halloween Special: Newcastle's Dark Side Walking Tour: $32
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne: $38

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Canterbury Landmarks Private Walking Tour: $218
  • Canterbury Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $276
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Canterbury's World Heritage Sites Guided Walking Tour: $229
  • Christmas Tales in Canterbury – Private Walking Tour: $217
  • Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles: $210
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • From London: Dover Castle and White Cliffs Tour by Car: $1,083
  • Literary & Cultural Heritage: Canterbury Private Walking Tour: $218

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newcastle upon Tyne £9.43
    Dover £7.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle upon Tyne:

  • Private Newcastle Pub Tour: $191
  • Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour: $203

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

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

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $178


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


Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Dover?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne and Dover, 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 Dover?

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 Dover in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Dover. The summer months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dover this time of year.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Dover in the summer. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Dover fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dover. In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Dover. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 212 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Dover. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dover receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newcastle upon Tyne 15°C (59°F) 
    Dover 17°C (63°F)

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

Both Dover and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dover for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Dover. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Dover averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Dover during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 119 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 Dover. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dover receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newcastle upon Tyne 10°C (49°F) 
    Dover 12°C (54°F)

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

Both Dover and Newcastle upon Tyne during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dover in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Dover can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Dover. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 3°C (38°F), and Dover fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Dover. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 57 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 Dover. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dover receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newcastle upon Tyne 3°C (38°F) 
    Dover 4°C (40°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Dover. Also, most visitors come to Dover for the natural beauty during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Dover in the spring. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Dover fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Dover during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Dover. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newcastle upon Tyne 7°C (45°F) 
    Dover 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dover and Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne Dover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)