A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Edinburgh can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a historic, quaint, and idyllic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Visitors also love the food and theater.

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. Visitors also love the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Edinburgh than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions, food, and small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is terrific for its theatre productions. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shows and theatre.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Stratford-upon-Avon that are not to be missed. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Stratford-upon-Avon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Edinburgh offers plenty to see. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Edinburgh is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Edinburgh is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Edinburgh is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

In either Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

Couples should spend more time in Edinburgh than Stratford-upon-Avon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Edinburgh that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

Even though Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Edinburgh for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edinburgh, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the theater. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edinburgh, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and theater when visiting Edinburgh. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.

When comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Edinburgh, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Edinburgh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Edinburgh, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Edinburgh in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Stratford-upon-Avon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn for the small town atmosphere. 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, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Edinburgh. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, 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. Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold during winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Edinburgh. The spring months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Edinburgh in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets more rain in April than Edinburgh. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Stratford-upon-Avon