A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Nottingham vs. Aberdeen for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nottingham or Aberdeen?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Aberdeen can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a dynamic, livable, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a architectural, authentic, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Aberdeen than Nottingham. While Nottingham is larger than Aberdeen, Aberdeen has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Aberdeen is more popular for its museums and historical sights, while Nottingham is known for its music and shopping. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. Aberdeen is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also home to St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Nottingham different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Aberdeen. 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.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Aberdeen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Both Nottingham and Aberdeen offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in 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 Nottingham or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Aberdeen.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Aberdeen has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is Nottingham or Aberdeen Better for Music?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Nottingham is a popular place for live music. However, Aberdeen is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Nottingham is active and vibrant. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Aberdeen is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is well known for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Aberdeen is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

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 Nottingham or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.


Is Nottingham or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Both Nottingham and Aberdeen are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Nottingham or Aberdeen Better for Students?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a city with good options for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

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

Nottingham is not popular with students.

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

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Nottingham 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 Nottingham is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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 Nottingham or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Aberdeen

Nottingham and Aberdeen both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Aberdeen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Aberdeen than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aberdeen.

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


  • How many days in Nottingham or Aberdeen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Aberdeen 2-3

One day in Nottingham or Aberdeen?

The city of Nottingham offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the architectural city of Aberdeen, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Nottingham is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nottingham, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Aberdeen, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Nottingham 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.

Aberdeen, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Nottingham is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Aberdeen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Aberdeen or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Aberdeen is £121. 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 Nottingham and Aberdeen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Aberdeen £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Aberdeen £130
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Aberdeen

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Aberdeen? 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 Nottingham


Hotels in Aberdeen


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Aberdeen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Aberdeen £34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Prices for flights to both Aberdeen and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    Aberdeen £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Aberdeen £19

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

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

  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $64
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $65
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Aberdeen £3.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401


When comparing the travel costs between Nottingham and Aberdeen, we can see that Aberdeen 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 Nottingham Expensive? and Is Aberdeen Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Aberdeen?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Aberdeen?

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 Nottingham or Aberdeen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Aberdeen. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Aberdeen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Nottingham is a little warmer than Aberdeen in the summer. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Aberdeen. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Nottingham is a little warmer than Aberdeen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nottingham in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Aberdeen. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Aberdeen. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Aberdeen in the Winter?

Both Aberdeen and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Aberdeen can be very cold. Nottingham can be very cold during winter. In January, Nottingham is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 4°C (39°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Aberdeen in the Spring?

Both Aberdeen and Nottingham during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year.

Nottingham is a little warmer than Aberdeen in the spring. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Aberdeen. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Nottingham

Nottingham Aberdeen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)