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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews?

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 Saint Andrews 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. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Snowdonia National Park and Saint Andrews: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Andrews than Snowdonia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Andrews is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Snowdonia National Park is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Snowdonia National Park is well known for its beautiful mountain landscape. Saint Andrews is well known for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. Also, Saint Andrews is famous for The Old Course.

The Old Course
The Old Course

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Saint Andrews?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Snowdonia National Park is a moderate national park for snow skiing. However, Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews is not a skiing destination.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is very good for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

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

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.

Snowdonia National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews 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 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Snowdonia National Park and Saint Andrews are notable choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Snowdonia National Park to enjoy the beach. 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.

Saint Andrews has a beach worth visiting. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Snowdonia National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Snowdonia National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

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

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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Snowdonia National Park 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.

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.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly national park. 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 Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Snowdonia National Park is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for couples.

Snowdonia National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Saint Andrews makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

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

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. 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.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews Better for Students?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a must-visit destination for students. However, Snowdonia National Park is not popular with 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Both Snowdonia National Park and Saint Andrews 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.

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Saint Andrews or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Snowdonia National Park than Saint Andrews because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint Andrews.

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

Couples should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Saint Andrews. 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.


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Saint Andrews 1-2

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the natural destination of Snowdonia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Saint Andrews is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this university town.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Snowdonia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Saint Andrews is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. 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 Saint Andrews?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the scenic destination of Snowdonia National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful national park of Snowdonia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Andrews. 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, Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews is £215. 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 Saint Andrews in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Saint Andrews £116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Saint Andrews £232
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Saint Andrews

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews? 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 Saint Andrews


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Saint Andrews £53

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews?

Prices for flights to both Saint Andrews 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
    Saint Andrews £62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Saint Andrews £45

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 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: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $145
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $145
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $145
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Saint Andrews £26


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Snowdonia National Park and Saint Andrews, we can see that Saint Andrews 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 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 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 Saint Andrews Expensive?.



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

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 Saint Andrews in the Summer?

Both Saint Andrews and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Saint Andrews in the summer. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews during summer. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Andrews receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Andrews. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews in the Autumn?

Both Saint Andrews and Snowdonia National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Andrews. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Andrews receives 100 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Saint Andrews. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Saint Andrews. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Saint Andrews during winter. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Andrews receives 58 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Saint Andrews. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Saint Andrews in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Saint Andrews. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Saint Andrews. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Andrews receives 155 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in April than Saint Andrews. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Saint Andrews and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Saint Andrews
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)


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