A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Andrews vs. Dresden for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Dresden?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Dresden, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a peaceful, historic, and charming university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Dresden

Dresden is a architectural, cultural, and park-filled city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Saint Andrews and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Dresden?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dresden. Although Saint Andrews and Dresden are both popular with visitors, Dresden has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dresden is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Saint Andrews is known for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Dresden is more touristy than Saint Andrews and is known 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 home to Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Saint Andrews is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf.

How is Saint Andrews different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Dresden?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Saint Andrews and Dresden.

Saint Andrews offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dresden. 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 Saint Andrews or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews is an experience not to be missed. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

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 Saint Andrews or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Dresden is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

Dresden offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Saint Andrews or Dresden Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Saint Andrews is a popular place for the beach. However, Dresden is not a beach destination.

Saint Andrews is a good option for a beach vacation. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Dresden is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Dresden is a well-known place for its old town. However, Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Dresden to see the historical old town. 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.

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Andrews or Dresden Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Saint Andrews is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Dresden is not a hiking destination.

Saint Andrews is a good destination for hiking. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Dresden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Dresden?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Saint Andrews is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Saint Andrews. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. 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.


Is Saint Andrews or Dresden Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

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 Saint Andrews or Dresden Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

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

Couples visit Saint Andrews frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

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 Saint Andrews or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Dresden is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dresden. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.


Is Saint Andrews or Dresden Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Saint Andrews is an amazing university town to visit for students. However, Dresden is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Saint Andrews. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Both Saint Andrews and Dresden offer good public transit options.

Saint Andrews has a few public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

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

Is Saint Andrews or Dresden a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Dresden

Dresden is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable university town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Dresden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Dresden?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dresden than Saint Andrews 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 Dresden.


  • How many days in Saint Andrews or Dresden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Dresden 1-3

One day in Saint Andrews or Dresden?

Saint Andrews is a small town with plenty to do. This university town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Dresden. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Dresden?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Andrews has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dresden. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Dresden?

Saint Andrews is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the architectural destination of Dresden. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.


A week in Saint Andrews or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Andrews. Since Saint Andrews is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Dresden. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dresden or Saint Andrews?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Andrews is £215, while the average daily cost in Dresden is £115. 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 Saint Andrews and Dresden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Dresden £53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Dresden £106
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Dresden

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Dresden? 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 Saint Andrews


Hotels in Dresden


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: Dresden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Dresden £9.04

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - Business Van: $77
  • Private Transfer from Dresden City to Leipzig City: $83
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - First Class: $136
  • One-Way Transfer from Dresden Airport (DRS) to Dresden: $146
  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague with 2 hours for sightseeing: $158

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Dresden?

Prices for flights to both Dresden and Saint Andrews 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
    Saint Andrews £62
    Dresden £27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dresden

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dresden.

  • Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $51
  • Winterlights Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $59
  • Dinner-Show "INDUSTRIELLE REVOLUTION": $117

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Dresden £8.18

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

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

  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • The Original St Andrews Photo Shoot Tour: $82
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $146

Tours and Activities in Dresden

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • River Elbe Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Old Town Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Dresden‘s Rise from Ruin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Dresden‘s Rise from Ruin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour : $7.99
  • Old Town Highlights Self-guided Tour: $8.45
  • Tour of VW's Transparent Factory: $9.62
  • The Green Factory Tour VW Transparent Factory: $9.62
  • Special Tour for Children & Families VW Factory: $9.62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Dresden £13

Sample the Local Flavors in Dresden

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dresden:

  • Dresden Bike Tour with Wine Tasting: $53
  • Radeberger Brewery Tour in German: $57
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401


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

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


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews and Dresden, 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 Saint Andrews or Dresden?

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 Saint Andrews or Dresden in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Dresden. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dresden for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Saint Andrews is cooler than Dresden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Andrews in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Dresden averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Dresden. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Dresden 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Dresden in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Dresden. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Dresden because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 10°C (49°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Saint Andrews usually gets more rain in October than Dresden. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Dresden 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Dresden in the Winter?

Both Dresden and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dresden in the winter. The weather in Saint Andrews can be very cold. Saint Andrews is much warmer than Dresden in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives more rain than Dresden. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Dresden 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Dresden in the Spring?

Both Dresden and Saint Andrews during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dresden for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Saint Andrews is cooler than Dresden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Andrews in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Dresden averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Dresden. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Dresden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Dresden and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Dresden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)