A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Outer Hebrides vs. Dundee for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Outer Hebrides or Dundee?

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 Dundee. 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 tranquil, serene, and remote archipelago. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Dundee

Dundee is a coastal, cultural, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Outer Hebrides and Dundee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Outer Hebrides or Dundee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dundee. Although Outer Hebrides and Dundee are both popular with visitors, Dundee has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dundee is more popular for its museums & sights, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Outer Hebrides is known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Outer Hebrides is popular for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries. Dundee is popular for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design. It is also home to Discovery Point and RRS Discovery.

How is Outer Hebrides different from Dundee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Dundee is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Dundee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Outer Hebrides 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, Outer Hebrides makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Outer Hebrides or Dundee Better for Nightlife?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Dundee is a good destination for nightlife. However, Outer Hebrides is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Outer Hebrides is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. You'll find the most options in the main town of Stornoway. Outside of town, most bars are attached to hotels or restaurants.

Is Outer Hebrides or Dundee Better for Beaches?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Outer Hebrides is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Dundee is not a beach destination.

Outer Hebrides is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Dundee is not a beach destination.


Is Outer Hebrides or Dundee Better for Hiking?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Outer Hebrides is an amazing archipelago to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Dundee is not a hiking destination.

People visit Outer Hebrides specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Dundee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Outer Hebrides or Dundee?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Dundee is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dundee is a good destination for shopping. 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Dundee Better for Families?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Both Outer Hebrides and Dundee are good family-friendly destinations.

Outer Hebrides is a family-friendly archipelago. 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.

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 Outer Hebrides or Dundee Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Outer Hebrides is a well-known place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

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 Outer Hebrides or Dundee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Outer Hebrides is a popular place for backpackers. However, Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Dundee Better for Students?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Dundee is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Dundee. Its affordability and authenticity make this a nice option for students. It's also a very safe city.

Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.


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

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Dundee is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Outer Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

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 Dundee a more walkable city?

Outer Hebrides
Dundee

Dundee is a good destination for its walkability. However, Outer Hebrides is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Outer Hebrides is not a walkable archipelago. There are many walking routes, but you'll need a car to cover the longer distances.

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

Should I spend more time in Dundee or Outer Hebrides?

How long in Outer Hebrides or Dundee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Outer Hebrides or Dundee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Outer Hebrides than Dundee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 1-2 days is enough time in Dundee.

Couples should spend more time in Outer Hebrides than Dundee. 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 Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides.


  • How many days in Outer Hebrides or Dundee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Outer Hebrides 4-10 
    Dundee 1-2

One day in Outer Hebrides or Dundee?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Outer Hebrides. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Dundee, you'll find nightlife and food. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Outer Hebrides or Dundee?

Outer Hebrides is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dundee is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Dundee?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Outer Hebrides. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dundee. 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 Dundee?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the spectacular destination of Outer Hebrides. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Dundee. 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 Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Dundee or Outer Hebrides?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Outer Hebrides is £123, while the average daily cost in Dundee is £234. 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 Outer Hebrides and Dundee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Outer Hebrides £62
    Dundee £149
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Outer Hebrides £124
    Dundee £298
Compare Hotels in Outer Hebrides and Dundee

Looking for a hotel in Outer Hebrides or Dundee? 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 Outer Hebrides


Hotels in Dundee


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: Dundee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Outer Hebrides £51
    Dundee £16

Is it cheaper to fly into Outer Hebrides or Dundee?

Prices for flights to both Dundee and Outer Hebrides 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
    Outer Hebrides £31
    Dundee £47

Typical Food Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of dining costs in Dundee are as follows:


  • Moroccan Sandwich
    £2.70
  • Drinks and Scottish Shortbread at Discovery
    £4.70
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    £8.80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Outer Hebrides £20
    Dundee £106

Typical Entertainment Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Dundee are as follows:


  • Newspaper
    £0.85

Tours and Activities in Dundee

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

  • Boat Seafari Adventure: $37
  • Dundee Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $20
  • Made in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Original Dundee Photoshoot Tour: $89
  • Skip-the-Line: Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $6.68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Outer Hebrides £6.36
    Dundee £13


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Outer Hebrides and Dundee, we can see that Dundee 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 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 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 Dundee Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Dundee in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Dundee. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Outer Hebrides this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dundee for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Outer Hebrides is cooler than Dundee in the summer. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Dundee fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Dundee. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dundee receives 184 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in July than Dundee. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Outer Hebrides 13°C (55°F) 
    Dundee 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Dundee in the Autumn?

Both Dundee and Outer Hebrides are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Outer Hebrides for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dundee in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Outer Hebrides is around the same temperature as Dundee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Outer Hebrides in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Dundee averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Dundee during autumn. Outer Hebrides gets 83 hours of sunny skies, while Dundee receives 100 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Outer Hebrides. In October, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Dundee. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Outer Hebrides 9°C (49°F) 
    Dundee 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Dundee in the Winter?

Both Dundee and Outer Hebrides during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dundee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dundee can be very cold during winter. Outer Hebrides can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Outer Hebrides is generally a little warmer than Dundee. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 4°C (40°F), and Dundee fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Dundee. Outer Hebrides gets 33 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 Outer Hebrides. Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in January than Dundee. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Outer Hebrides 4°C (40°F) 
    Dundee 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Dundee in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Dundee. Most visitors come to Outer Hebrides for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dundee because of the activities around the city.

Outer Hebrides is around the same temperature as Dundee in the spring. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Dundee fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dundee during spring. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Dundee receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Dundee. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Dundee receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Outer Hebrides 7°C (44°F) 
    Dundee 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Dundee and Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides Dundee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 126 mm (5 in) 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)