A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Snowdonia National Park vs. Aberdeen for Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a rugged, stunning, and natural national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Aberdeen

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

Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen are popular destinations, Aberdeen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aberdeen is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Snowdonia National Park attracts visitors for its skiing, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Snowdonia National Park is famous for its beautiful mountain landscape. Aberdeen is famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also well known for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aberdeen and Snowdonia National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Snowdonia National Park is a moderate national park for snow skiing. However, Aberdeen is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Snowdonia National Park to take advantage of their winter sports. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.

Aberdeen is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Aberdeen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Both Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Snowdonia National Park. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Aberdeen is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Snowdonia National Park is a popular place for its beaches. However, Aberdeen is not a beach destination.

Snowdonia National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Aberdeen is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Snowdonia National Park is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

People visit Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Aberdeen offers some nice shopping areas. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Aberdeen. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Snowdonia National Park is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Snowdonia National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Snowdonia National Park is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Snowdonia National Park. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Students?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is very good for students. However, Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

Aberdeen is a good city to visit for students. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Both Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen offer nice public transit options.

Snowdonia National Park has a few public transit options. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

Aberdeen has some public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

Aberdeen is a very walkable city. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Snowdonia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than in Aberdeen. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aberdeen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Aberdeen 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 Snowdonia National Park.


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Aberdeen 2-3

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

The beautiful national park of Snowdonia National Park offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the architectural city of Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Aberdeen is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Snowdonia National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

Snowdonia National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Snowdonia National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Aberdeen or Snowdonia National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Snowdonia National Park is £75, while the average daily cost in Aberdeen is £121. 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 Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Aberdeen £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Aberdeen £130
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen? 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 Snowdonia National Park


Hotels in Aberdeen


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: Aberdeen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Aberdeen £34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Snowdonia National Park:

  • Private Transfer from Caernarfon to Manchester Airport (MAN): $250

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181

Is it cheaper to fly into Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

Prices for flights to both Aberdeen and Snowdonia National Park 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
    Snowdonia National Park £19
    Aberdeen £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Aberdeen £19

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Snowdonia National Park are as follows:

  • Anglesey Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • 2 Hours Historical Tour of Caernarfon: $33
  • Snowdon Kayak Adventure on Llyn Padarn: $56

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

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

  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $64
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $65
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Aberdeen £3.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Snowdonia National Park Expensive? and Is Aberdeen Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen?

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 Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen in the Summer?

Both Aberdeen and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Snowdonia National Park is generally around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 15°C (60°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Snowdonia National Park. Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during summer. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

Both Aberdeen and Snowdonia National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year.

Snowdonia National Park is a little warmer than Aberdeen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Aberdeen. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Aberdeen. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Aberdeen. The skiing and the cuisine are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Aberdeen. In the winter, Snowdonia National Park is much warmer than Aberdeen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during winter. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aberdeen. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Aberdeen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Aberdeen. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Aberdeen in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Snowdonia National Park is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 8°C (47°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Aberdeen. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Aberdeen. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Aberdeen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)


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