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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a cultural, historical, and vibrant port city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Edinburgh than Newcastle upon Tyne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Newcastle upon Tyne is known for its food. Edinburgh is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Newcastle upon Tyne is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Edinburgh has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newcastle upon Tyne can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a theatre destination.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newcastle upon Tyne and Edinburgh.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a live music destination.

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

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Edinburgh offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Edinburgh.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Edinburgh is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. 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.

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 Edinburgh Better for Couples?

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

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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 Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Edinburgh are superb destinations for 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.

Edinburgh is a great port city to visit as a student. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Edinburgh are amazing when it comes to walkability.

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

Getting around Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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

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

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh?

In either Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than Newcastle upon Tyne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Newcastle upon Tyne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this quaint 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical port city of Newcastle upon Tyne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edinburgh, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and theater when visiting Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 15°C (59°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Edinburgh during summer. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Edinburgh and Newcastle upon Tyne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Edinburgh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Edinburgh. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in October than Edinburgh. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Edinburgh. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 7°C (45°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Edinburgh. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in April than Edinburgh. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Newcastle upon Tyne