A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Outer Hebrides vs. Basel for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Outer Hebrides or Basel?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Outer Hebrides and Basel. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides is a spectacular, natural, and tranquil archipelago. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Basel

Basel is a cultural, museum-filled, and easily accessible city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Outer Hebrides and Basel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Outer Hebrides or Basel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Basel. Although Outer Hebrides and Basel are popular destinations, Basel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Basel is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Outer Hebrides attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and hiking. Basel is more touristy than Outer Hebrides and is popular for its many museums and its nice old town. It is also well known for The Kunstmuseum Basel. Outer Hebrides is famous for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries.

How is Outer Hebrides different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Outer Hebrides or Basel?

Basel is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Outer Hebrides or Basel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Outer Hebrides is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Outer Hebrides. You'll find plenty of seafood, smokehouses, distilleries and crofting produce in the area. Most islands have independent restaurants as well as pubs and other local eateries to choose from.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Basel is a good destination for nightlife. However, Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for Beaches?

Outer Hebrides is notable for the beache. However, Basel is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Outer Hebrides. From white sand beaches to hidden coves, you'll enjoy a completely serene beach experience on these islands. You can get lost in the nature and soak up the surprisingly blue waters at any of the remote beaches. Favorite beaches in the area include Vatersay Bay, Coilleag a’Phrionnsa, West Coast Beach, and Crabhadail.

Basel is not a beach destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Basel is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Outer Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Outer Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for Hiking?

Outer Hebrides is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Outer Hebrides draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Outer Hebrides or Basel?

Basel is a very popular place for shopping. However, Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for Families?

Basel is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Outer Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Basel is a very family-friendly destination. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Outer Hebrides. The beautiful outdoor setting is great for kids and adults alike. There are beaches to explore as well as kid-friendly museums. You can also try your hand at digging for cockles or head out on the water to watch for dolphins.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Outer Hebrides is a very popular place to visit for couples. Go island hopping and discover the countless beautiful beaches. You can take a boat trip or simply soak up the peaceful coastal setting.

Basel is a good archipelago for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Outer Hebrides and Basel are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Outer Hebrides. You'll need to take either a plane of ferry to reach the islands but once you're there you can camp and hike and soak up the tranquil setting.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for Students?

Basel is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.

Many students visit Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Basel is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Outer Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Basel. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Outer Hebrides. There are buses that run doing the day between Monday and Saturday. In Stornoway you may be able to find some evening buses as well.

Is Outer Hebrides or Basel a more walkable city?

Basel is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Basel. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Outer Hebrides Worth Visiting? and Is Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Outer Hebrides?

How long in Outer Hebrides or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Outer Hebrides and Basel. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Outer Hebrides than in Basel. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel than Outer Hebrides 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 Basel.

One day in Outer Hebrides or Basel?

In Outer Hebrides, many people enjoy the food that this tranquil destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. This archipelago 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 Basel, 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 Outer Hebrides or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Outer Hebrides. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Basel 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 Outer Hebrides or Basel?

Outer Hebrides is a fun place to experience. In Outer Hebrides, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Basel. 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 Outer Hebrides or Basel?

In Outer Hebrides, many people enjoy the food that this serene destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Basel. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Outer Hebrides and Basel, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Outer Hebrides much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Outer Hebrides would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Outer Hebrides 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel than you might in Outer Hebrides.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Outer Hebrides Expensive? and Is Basel Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Outer Hebrides or Basel?

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 Outer Hebrides or Basel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Basel. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Outer Hebrides is much colder than Basel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Outer Hebrides in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Basel averages at about 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Basel. In the summer, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Basel. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets less rain in July than Basel. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Basel in the Autumn?

Both Basel and Outer Hebrides are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Outer Hebrides for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Basel because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Outer Hebrides is generally cooler than Basel. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 9°C (49°F), and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Basel during autumn. Outer Hebrides gets 83 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Outer Hebrides. In October, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Basel. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Basel in the Winter?

Both Basel and Outer Hebrides during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Outer Hebrides because of the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

It's quite cold in Basel in the winter. The weather in Outer Hebrides can be very cold. Outer Hebrides is a little warmer than Basel in the winter. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Basel. Outer Hebrides gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Outer Hebrides. Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in January than Basel. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Basel in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Basel. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Outer Hebrides this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Basel for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Outer Hebrides is much colder than Basel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Outer Hebrides in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Basel averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Basel during spring. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Outer Hebrides usually receives less rain than Basel. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Basel and Outer Hebrides