A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Saint Andrews vs. Manchester for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Manchester?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Manchester, 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 historic, charming, and quaint university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Manchester

Manchester is a dynamic, diverse, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Saint Andrews and Manchester: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Manchester?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Manchester. Although Saint Andrews and Manchester are popular destinations, Manchester has more sights and attractions for tourists. Manchester is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, 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. Manchester is famous for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. It is also well known for The National Football Museum.

How is Saint Andrews different from Manchester?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Manchester 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 Manchester can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

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 Manchester? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

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

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.

Manchester has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Is Saint Andrews or Manchester Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Manchester 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.

Manchester offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

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 Manchester Better for Music?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Manchester is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Saint Andrews is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Manchester is very popular with diverse venues. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Saint Andrews is not a live music destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Manchester Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

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

Many people head to Saint Andrews to enjoy the beach. 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.

Manchester is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Manchester Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Saint Andrews is very good for hiking. However, Manchester is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting 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.

Manchester is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Manchester?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Both Saint Andrews and Manchester are excellent shopping destinations.

Saint Andrews is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Manchester. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.


Is Saint Andrews or Manchester Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Manchester is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Manchester is a very kid-friendly city. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly university town. 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.

Is Saint Andrews or Manchester Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Saint Andrews and Manchester are both excellent 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.

Manchester makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Is Saint Andrews or Manchester Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Manchester 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 Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

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 Manchester Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Saint Andrews is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Manchester is a great university town to visit as a student. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

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

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Manchester is a well-known place 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 public transit in Manchester can get you around easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

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

Is Saint Andrews or Manchester a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Manchester

Saint Andrews and Manchester both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Manchester is a somewhat walkable university town. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.


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

Should I spend more time in Manchester or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Manchester?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Andrews or Manchester. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Manchester due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint Andrews, and 2-4 days is enough time in Manchester.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Manchester 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 Manchester.


  • How many days in Saint Andrews or Manchester? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Manchester 2-4

One day in Saint Andrews or Manchester?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Andrews, one day is sufficent for most.

Manchester is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Manchester?

Even though Saint Andrews is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this university town.

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

Saint Andrews, a popular university town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the vibrant big city of Manchester. 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 Manchester?

Saint Andrews is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Manchester. 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, Manchester 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 Manchester is £184. 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 Manchester in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Manchester £71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Manchester £142
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Manchester

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Manchester? 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 Manchester


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: Manchester Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Manchester £19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Manchester

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Manchester are as follows:


  • Rail to Airport
    £11
  • Parking in Manchester
    £3.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Manchester

Also for Manchester, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • 1-Wsy Airport Bus Transfer to/from Leeds: $6.86
  • Southampton Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Manchester: $8.12
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from London: $8.12
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Bucklow Hill: $50
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Adlington (Macclesfield): $52
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Stockport: $52
  • Private Transfer from Eccles to Manchester Airport (MAN): $56
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Eccles: $56
  • Private Transfer from Salford to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Salford Quays to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Trafford Park to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Salford: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Manchester?

Prices for flights to both Manchester 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
    Manchester £55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Manchester

For Manchester, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Hard Rock Cafe Manchester with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Pistachio LOVERS Italian Dinner Experience: $35
  • Private Italian Dinner with a Romantic Night Experience: $63
  • 2 Hours Sicilian Wine Tasting and Dinner at Manchester: $76
  • Manchester Food Tour with a Local Guide: $87
  • Half-Day Manchester Food Tour with Lunch: $89
  • 3-Hour Guided Manchester Food Tour with Lunch : $95
  • Private Food Tour with Local Guide: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Manchester £30

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: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • 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

Tours and Activities in Manchester

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Manchester.

  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • Manchester City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Manchester’s Rebirth and Renewal: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • England's First Industrial City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Salford Quays Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Canal & River Cruise: $15
  • City River Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Manchester £9.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Manchester

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Manchester:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Four hour walking wine tasting tour of Manchester's best bars: $101


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

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 Manchester Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Manchester?

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

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 Saint Andrews or Manchester in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Manchester. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Manchester because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Manchester. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 14°C (58°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In the summer, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Manchester. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 176 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in July than Manchester. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Manchester 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Manchester in the Autumn?

Both Manchester and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Manchester this time of year.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Manchester in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Manchester fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Manchester during autumn. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Manchester. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Manchester 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Manchester in the Winter?

Both Manchester and Saint Andrews during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Manchester for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Manchester. It's quite cold in Saint Andrews in the winter. In the winter, Saint Andrews is cooler than Manchester. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Andrews in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Manchester averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Saint Andrews often gets more sunshine than Manchester. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 53 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Manchester. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Manchester in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Manchester. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Manchester in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Manchester. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 7°C (45°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Manchester during spring. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 144 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Manchester. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Manchester 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Manchester and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Manchester
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 16°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)