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

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Geneva?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Geneva, 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Geneva

Geneva is a diverse, international, and professional city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Saint Andrews and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Geneva?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Geneva. Although Saint Andrews and Geneva are popular destinations, Geneva has more sights and attractions for tourists. Geneva is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint Andrews attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Andrews is famous for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. Geneva is famous for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also well known for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Saint Andrews different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Geneva is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Geneva can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. 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.


Is the Food Better in Saint Andrews or Geneva? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Saint Andrews and Geneva.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Andrews. 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.

Geneva has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Saint Andrews or Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Both Saint Andrews and Geneva are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Geneva. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Saint Andrews or Geneva Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Saint Andrews is a good destination for its beaches. However, Geneva is not a beach destination.

Saint Andrews offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Geneva is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Geneva is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Geneva to see the old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Andrews or Geneva Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Saint Andrews is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Saint Andrews offers some nice hiking trails. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Geneva?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Geneva is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Geneva make it a world-class shopping destination. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.


Is Saint Andrews or Geneva Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Saint Andrews and Geneva are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Geneva is a family-friendly university town. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Saint Andrews or Geneva Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Saint Andrews is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Saint Andrews or Geneva Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Saint Andrews is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for students. 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.

Geneva is a very popular university town for students and younger travelers. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.


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

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Geneva is terrific for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Geneva can take you anywhere. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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

Is Saint Andrews or Geneva a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Geneva

Geneva 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.

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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 Geneva Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Geneva?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Andrews and Geneva. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Geneva 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 Geneva.

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

Couples should spend more time in Saint Andrews than Geneva. 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 Geneva 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 Geneva.


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

One day in Saint Andrews or Geneva?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Geneva is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Geneva?

Saint Andrews is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Geneva. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Geneva?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Andrews. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the international big city of Geneva. 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 Geneva?

Saint Andrews is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Geneva. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Geneva 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 Geneva is £169. 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 Geneva in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Geneva £117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Geneva £234
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Geneva

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Geneva? 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 Geneva


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: Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Geneva £7.55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Geneva Int Airport (GVA) to La Clusaz - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Geneva to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Geneva Airport: $71
  • VIP Transfer: $72
  • Arrival Transfer from Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva by Sedan: $73
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Verbier - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Hotels to Geneva Airport: $86
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Geneva Hotels : $86
  • Geneva Airport Transfers : Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA in Business Car: $87
  • Geneva Departure Private Transfers from Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA: $87
  • Geneva Passenger Transfer to Chamonix Mont Blanc: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Geneva?

Prices for flights to both Geneva 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
    Geneva £42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

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

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $144
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Geneva £24

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 Geneva

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Geneva Lakeside Stroll: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • From Brunswick Monument to the Botanical Garden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Old Town Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Geneva Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Many Faces of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • International District Self-Guided City Sightseeing: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Geneva (International District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Geneva £18


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Andrews and Geneva, we can see that Saint Andrews is more expensive. And not only is Geneva much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Geneva would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Geneva 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 Geneva.

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 Geneva Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Geneva?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews and Geneva, 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 Geneva?

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 Geneva in the Summer?

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

In July, Saint Andrews is generally much colder than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 14°C (58°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Geneva this time of the year. Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Geneva 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Geneva in the Autumn?

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

Saint Andrews is cooler than Geneva in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Geneva fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Geneva. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Geneva 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Geneva in the Winter?

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

The weather in Geneva can be very cold. Saint Andrews can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Saint Andrews is cooler than Geneva. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Andrews in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Geneva averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Geneva during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives more rain than Geneva. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Geneva 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Geneva in the Spring?

Both Geneva and Saint Andrews during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Geneva this time of year.

In April, Saint Andrews is generally much colder than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 7°C (45°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Geneva. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Geneva 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Geneva and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Geneva
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)