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

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Utrecht?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Utrecht, 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 charming, quaint, and peaceful university town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Saint Andrews and Utrecht: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Utrecht?

Both Utrecht and Saint Andrews have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Saint Andrews is very popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and small town charm, while Utrecht attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Utrecht is more touristy than Saint Andrews and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. Saint Andrews is famous for its reputation as the birthplace of golf.

How is Saint Andrews different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Saint Andrews and Utrecht.

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 Utrecht. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.


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

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Saint Andrews is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Andrews makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Saint Andrews or Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

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 Utrecht Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Saint Andrews is a popular place for its beaches. However, Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Utrecht Better for its Old Town?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Utrecht is terrific for its old town. However, Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Utrecht has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Andrews or Utrecht Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Saint Andrews is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Utrecht?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Both Saint Andrews and Utrecht are very good 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 Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.


Is Saint Andrews or Utrecht Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Saint Andrews and Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly university town. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Is Saint Andrews or Utrecht Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Saint Andrews and Utrecht 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.

Utrecht makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Utrecht is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Utrecht is a great to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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 Utrecht Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Saint Andrews is a world-class destination for students. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Utrecht is very popular with students. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

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

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Utrecht 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 Utrecht can get you around easily. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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

Is Saint Andrews or Utrecht a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Utrecht

Utrecht is terrific 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.

It is easy to get around Utrecht on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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 Utrecht Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Utrecht or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Utrecht?

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

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

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


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

One day in Saint Andrews or Utrecht?

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 charming destination of Utrecht. 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 Utrecht?

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 Utrecht. 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 Utrecht?

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 quaint destination of Utrecht. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This 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 Utrecht?

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 beautiful of Utrecht. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Utrecht 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 Utrecht is £162. 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 Utrecht in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Utrecht £91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Utrecht £182
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Utrecht

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Utrecht? 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 Utrecht


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: Utrecht Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Utrecht?

Prices for flights to both Utrecht 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
    Utrecht £49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Utrecht

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

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $70
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Utrecht £37

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 Utrecht

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

  • Hoge Woerd Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $4.28
  • Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.45
  • Highlights walking Tour in Utrecht with Audio and GPS Guide: $6.06
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • De Haar Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $7.49
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Lofen Palace Time Travel with Entry Ticket & Guide: $12
  • Guided Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Dom Tower Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Utrecht £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21


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

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 Utrecht Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Utrecht?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews and Utrecht, 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 Utrecht?

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 Utrecht in the Summer?

Both Utrecht and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Utrecht for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 14°C (58°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Utrecht during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Utrecht. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Utrecht in the Autumn?

Both Utrecht and Saint Andrews during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Utrecht in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Utrecht fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Utrecht. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 100 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Utrecht. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Utrecht in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Utrecht. 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 Utrecht this time of year.

It's quite cold in Utrecht in the winter. The weather in Saint Andrews can be very cold. In the winter, Saint Andrews is much warmer than Utrecht. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Andrews in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Utrecht averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of rain as Utrecht. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Utrecht in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Utrecht. 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 Utrecht for the natural beauty.

In April, Saint Andrews is generally around the same temperature as Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 7°C (45°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Utrecht. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 156 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Utrecht. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Utrecht and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Utrecht
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)