A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Saint Andrews vs. Inner Hebrides for Food, Beaches, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides, 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 quaint, peaceful, and historic university town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a stunning, natural, and peaceful islands. 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.

Saint Andrews and Inner Hebrides: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Andrews. Although Saint Andrews and Inner Hebrides are popular destinations, Saint Andrews has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Andrews is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Inner Hebrides attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Saint Andrews is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. It is also well known for The Old Course. Inner Hebrides is famous for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

The Old Course
The Old Course

How is Saint Andrews different from Inner Hebrides?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Saint Andrews is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Saint Andrews is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Inner Hebrides. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

Is Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Saint Andrews is a popular place for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for the beache. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for the beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Inner Hebrides. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saint Andrews. 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.


Is Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its hiking trails.

Inner Hebrides is a popular spot for hiking. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint Andrews. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Saint Andrews is a very popular place for shopping. However, Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Saint Andrews and Inner Hebrides 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.

Inner Hebrides is a family-friendly university town. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.


Is Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Saint Andrews and Inner Hebrides are both very good to visit as a couple.

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

Inner Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

Is Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.

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 Inner Hebrides Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Saint Andrews is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Inner Hebrides 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.

Inner Hebrides is not popular with students.


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

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.

Is Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Inner Hebrides

Saint Andrews is a popular place for its walkability. However, Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Inner Hebrides or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

In either Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Inner Hebrides than Saint Andrews because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint Andrews, and 3-5 days is enough time in Inner Hebrides.

Families should spend more time in Saint Andrews than Inner Hebrides. 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 Inner Hebrides. 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 Saint Andrews than Inner 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 Saint Andrews.


  • How many days in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Inner Hebrides 3-5

One day in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the natural destination of Inner Hebrides. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

Saint Andrews 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Inner Hebrides. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Andrews. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the tranquil destination of Inner Hebrides. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This islands offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

Saint Andrews is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

You'll find food around the beautiful islands of Inner Hebrides. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, and The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides is £142. 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 Inner Hebrides in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Inner Hebrides £67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Inner Hebrides £134
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Inner Hebrides

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides? 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 Inner Hebrides


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Inner Hebrides £76

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Inner Hebrides?

Prices for flights to both Inner Hebrides 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
    Inner Hebrides £31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Inner Hebrides £22

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

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

  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $145
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $145
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $145
  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews - Watch Building Experience with Kartel Scotland: $245
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Inner Hebrides £7.71


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

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 Inner Hebrides Expensive?.