A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Dresden for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Dresden?

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 Orkney Islands and Dresden can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a natural, pristine, and remote archipelago. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, museums, and food.

Dresden

Dresden is a friendly, architectural, 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.

Orkney Islands and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Dresden?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dresden. Although Orkney Islands and Dresden are popular destinations, Dresden has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dresden is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Orkney Islands attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dresden is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is popular for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). It is also well known for Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Orkney Islands is famous for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Dresden?

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Dresden and Orkney Islands.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Orkney Islands. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

Is the Food Better in Orkney Islands or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orkney Islands is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Orkney Islands is an experience not to be missed. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Dresden is great for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Dresden for the nightlife scene. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands is a great destination for the beach. However, Dresden is not a beach destination.

Orkney Islands is considered a top beach destination. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Dresden is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Dresden is great for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dresden is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Orkney Islands. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Dresden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Dresden?

Dresden is very good for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dresden has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden Better for Families?

Orkney Islands is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Orkney Islands. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Orkney Islands frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Orkney Islands is a very popular archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orkney Islands and Dresden both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Orkney Islands offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Dresden has a few public transit options. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Orkney Islands or Dresden a more walkable city?

Dresden is great for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Orkney Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Dresden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orkney Islands and Dresden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than in Dresden. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dresden.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orkney Islands than Dresden 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 Orkney Islands.

One day in Orkney Islands or Dresden?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Dresden, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Dresden?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Dresden is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Dresden?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orkney Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dresden. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Orkney Islands or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orkney Islands. In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Dresden. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

When comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Dresden, we can see that Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Expensive? and Is Dresden Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands or Dresden?

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 Orkney Islands or Dresden in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Dresden. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dresden because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Dresden in the summer. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 12°C (54°F) in July, and Dresden fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Orkney Islands usually gets less rain in July than Dresden. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Dresden in the Autumn?

Both Dresden and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

In the autumn, Orkney Islands is cooler than Dresden. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orkney Islands in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Dresden averages at about 11°C (51°F).

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. In October, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Dresden. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Dresden in the Winter?

Both Dresden and Orkney Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dresden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dresden. It's quite cold in Orkney Islands in the winter. In January, Orkney Islands is generally much warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 4°C (39°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in January than Dresden. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Dresden in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Dresden. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dresden in the spring for the activities around the city.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Dresden in the spring. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Dresden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In April, Orkney Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dresden. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dresden and Orkney Islands