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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee?

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 Dundee 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.

Dundee

Dundee is a historic, coastal, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Dundee: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne than Dundee. Newcastle upon Tyne is bigger than Dundee, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Newcastle upon Tyne is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Dundee is more popular for its big city activities. Newcastle upon Tyne is more touristy than Dundee and is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for The Tyne Bridge. Dundee is well known for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Dundee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Newcastle upon Tyne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Dundee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On the waterfront you'll find a couple of nautical museums such as RRS Discovery, and HM Frigate Unicorn. Other museums and sights include V&A Dundee, Tay Rail Bridge, Camperdown Wildlife Centre, and Glamis Castle.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dundee 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.

Dundee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a few local dishes that the city is known for. These include Dundee Cake, Dundee marmalade, and Angus beef.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Dundee 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 Dundee. The vibrant student population heavily influences the city's nightlife. There are a number of clubs and bars where you can hang out late into the night.

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

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for shopping. However, Dundee is not a good city 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Dundee has some nice offerings. There are shopping centers and a few independent shops that are worth checking out. Head to Overgate Shopping Centre for the standard brands or Dundee's Farmer's Market for some local produce.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee.

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 Dundee. Head to the Dundee Science Center or check out Discovery Point. There's also the Dundee Treasure Trail as well as climbing walls and other outdoor activities for when the weather's nice.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Dundee as a couple's destination. The coastal city has some nice outdoor spaces and interesting restaurants that couples can enjoy.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place for backpackers. However, Dundee 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.

Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for students. Also, Dundee 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 Dundee. Its affordability and authenticity make this a nice option for students. It's also a very safe city.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee 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, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne can move around easily with public transportation. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

Dundee has some public transit options. The city has a public bus system.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an amazing port city to visit for its walkability. Also, Dundee 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.

Dundee is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walks through the town.

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

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

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Dundee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-2 days is enough time in Dundee.

Families should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Dundee. 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 Dundee. 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 Dundee 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 Dundee?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Dundee, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this destination offers. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The destination of Dundee offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the livable destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dundee. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Newcastle upon Tyne and Dundee, we can see that Dundee is more expensive. And not only is Newcastle upon Tyne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Newcastle upon Tyne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Dundee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dundee than you might in Newcastle upon Tyne.

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 Dundee Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Dundee?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Dundee. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne and Dundee, 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 Dundee?

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 Dundee in the Summer?

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

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

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Dundee. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dundee receives 184 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Dundee. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Dundee 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 Dundee this time of year.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Dundee during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Dundee receives 100 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 Dundee. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Dundee 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 Dundee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Dundee. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dundee receives 58 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 Dundee. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

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

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Dundee during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Dundee receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Dundee. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dundee and Newcastle upon Tyne