A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Strasbourg vs. Cairngorms National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Strasbourg and Cairngorms National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a impressive, quaint, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Strasbourg and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Strasbourg than Cairngorms National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Strasbourg is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cairngorms National Park is more popular for its hiking. Strasbourg is well known for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. Also, Strasbourg is famous for The Strasbourg Cathedral. Cairngorms National Park is well known for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

How is Strasbourg different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Strasbourg is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Strasbourg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Strasbourg is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Strasbourg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Strasbourg is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Strasbourg is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Strasbourg is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Strasbourg is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is a very family-friendly destination. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.


Is Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Both Strasbourg and Cairngorms National Park are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Strasbourg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Cairngorms National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

For backpackers, both Strasbourg and Cairngorms National Park are notable places to visit.

Strasbourg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Is Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Strasbourg is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Strasbourg. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.


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

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Strasbourg is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Strasbourg offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Strasbourg
Cairngorms National Park

Strasbourg is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Strasbourg is a very walkable destination. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Strasbourg than Cairngorms 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 Strasbourg.


  • How many days in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Strasbourg 2-3 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the historic city of Strasbourg, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food around the beautiful national park of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.


A weekend in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the impressive destination of Strasbourg, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With food around the destination of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic city of Strasbourg. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

Strasbourg is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Strasbourg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Strasbourg is €138, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Strasbourg and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Strasbourg 67
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Strasbourg 134
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Strasbourg and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Strasbourg


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


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: Strasbourg Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Strasbourg 44
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Strasbourg

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

  • Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: $58
  • Private transfer Strasbourg Airport: $59
  • Private Transfer from Strasbourg Train Station to Hotel: $64
  • Private Transfer Strasbourg to Europa Park: $251
  • Door-to-Door private transfer and driver from Strasbourg to Basel: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Strasbourg 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
    Strasbourg 44
    Cairngorms National Park 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Strasbourg

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

  • Strasbourg Private Food Tour: experience the city like a local!: $93
  • Strasbourg Food Tour : Gourmet private Tour with tastings: $102
  • Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Strasbourg 24
    Cairngorms National Park 31

Tours and Activities in Strasbourg

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

  • 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway: $64
  • Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: $148
  • Alsace Wine Odyssey: Full-Day Private Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Alsace Wine Route Small Group Half-Day Tour with Tasting from Strasbourg: $107
  • Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour from Strasbourg: $175
  • Alsatian brunch with immersive cellar tour: $49
  • Alsatian tour, tasting and meal - 100% immersive experience: $60
  • Christmas Joy in Strasbourg Walking Tour: $641
  • Culinary city tour in Strasbourg with tastings: $104
  • Gems of Alsace: Private Full-Day Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Gourmet Bike Tour with a Locals in Strasbourg: $71
  • Guided Tours of Strasbourg Cathedral: $19

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222
  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Strasbourg 19
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83

Sample the Local Flavors in Strasbourg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Strasbourg:

  • Aperitif at the winemaker with cellar visit and wine tasting in Alsace: $11
  • Wine tasting and immersive cellar tour: $20
  • Wine tour, tasting and picnic basket: $38
  • From Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip: $118
  • Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg: $120
  • Strasbourg : Wine Tour by bike with a local: $150
  • Wine Tasting Private Tour: $545


When comparing the travel costs between Strasbourg and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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



When is the best time to visit Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Strasbourg and Cairngorms National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

In July, Strasbourg is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 20°C (68°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Strasbourg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Strasbourg usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during summer. Strasbourg gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Strasbourg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cairngorms National Park. Strasbourg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Strasbourg 20°C (68°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Strasbourg as well as Cairngorms National Park. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Strasbourg often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Strasbourg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in October than Cairngorms National Park. Strasbourg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Strasbourg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Cairngorms National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Strasbourg. In the winter, Strasbourg is much colder than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Strasbourg in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Strasbourg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park during winter. Strasbourg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Cairngorms National Park. Strasbourg gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Strasbourg 2°C (35°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Strasbourg or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Strasbourg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Strasbourg in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Strasbourg is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 11°C (51°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Strasbourg often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Strasbourg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets more rain in April than Cairngorms National Park. Strasbourg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Strasbourg 11°C (51°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Strasbourg

Strasbourg Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 75 mm (3 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)