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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a stunning, natural, and scenic national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Snowdonia National Park and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Edinburgh than Snowdonia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Snowdonia National Park is more popular for its skiing, food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Edinburgh is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Snowdonia National Park is well known for its beautiful mountain landscape.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Edinburgh is not a skiing destination.

Snowdonia National Park is a fun local destination for snow skiers. 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.

Edinburgh is not a skiing destination.

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

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Snowdonia National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Snowdonia National Park is a national park with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Snowdonia National Park has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Edinburgh offers plenty to do in the evening. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Edinburgh In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Snowdonia National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park is a national park with good options for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Snowdonia National Park. 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

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

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Edinburgh can be explored in its historical center. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Around Snowdonia National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Edinburgh is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh.

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 Edinburgh. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for students. However, Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Both Snowdonia National Park and Edinburgh offer notable 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.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

It is easy to get around Edinburgh on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh?

In either Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Edinburgh because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

Couples should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh than Snowdonia National Park 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh?

You'll find food around the national park of Snowdonia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the gothic city of Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find food around the scenic destination of Snowdonia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find food around the natural national park of Snowdonia National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Snowdonia National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Snowdonia National Park and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive?.

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

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 Snowdonia National Park or Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh and Snowdonia National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Edinburgh in the summer. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Snowdonia National Park. In the summer, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Edinburgh. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Edinburgh. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park is a little warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during autumn. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the skiing and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. In January, Snowdonia National Park is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 5°C (42°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in January than Edinburgh. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Edinburgh and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

Snowdonia National Park is a little warmer than Edinburgh in the spring. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during spring. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Snowdonia National Park