A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Isle of Skye for Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye?

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 Isle of Skye can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a idyllic, peaceful, and park-filled town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food and theater.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Isle of Skye: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isle of Skye. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Isle of Skye are popular destinations, Isle of Skye has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isle of Skye is very popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its museums, theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. It is also well known for The Old Man of Storr. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Isle of Skye?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Stratford-upon-Avon is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Stratford-upon-Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Stratford-upon-Avon is terrific for theatre. However, Isle of Skye is not a theatre destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is considered to be a world-class theater destination. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a theatre destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Isle of Skye has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye Better for Beaches?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a very popular place for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye Better for Hiking?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye Better for Families?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye Better for Couples?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

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

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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 Isle of Skye Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Stratford-upon-Avon is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Isle of Skye

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good destination for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is somewhat walkable. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Isle of Skye or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye?

In either Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Isle of Skye 2-5

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Isle of Skye?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the theater. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people visit Isle of Skye for a weekend. Lots of people come for the hiking. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the theater. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This island 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.


Which place is cheaper, Isle of Skye or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stratford-upon-Avon is £144, while the average daily cost in Isle of Skye is £114. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Isle of Skye in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Isle of Skye £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Isle of Skye £102
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Isle of Skye

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye? 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 Stratford-upon-Avon


Hotels in Isle of Skye


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: Stratford-upon-Avon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Isle of Skye £54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also for Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Stratford-upon-Avon To London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $272

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

Is it cheaper to fly into Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye?

Prices for flights to both Isle of Skye and Stratford-upon-Avon 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
    Stratford-upon-Avon £39
    Isle of Skye £31
Typical Food Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Cheese & Crackers
    £7.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Shakespearean Cooking Experience in Stratford-upon-Avon: $163
  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $176

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Isle of Skye £19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Stratford-upon-Avon's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Warwick Castle (2)
    £59
  • Lunch
    £12
  • Lunch for 2
    £17

Tours and Activities in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Day Tour Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon : $254
  • 2-Hour Alpaca Farm Experience in Kenilworth: $33
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter: $6.99
  • Bath & Stonehenge Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $127
  • City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • Clay Shooting Experience in Warwickshire: $45
  • Cotswold Walks & Villages Tour from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh: $108
  • Cotswolds : 30 Minute Flight Experience: $224
  • Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh: $95
  • Cotswolds Electric Bike Tour- Public Tour max 6 persons: $250
  • Cotswolds Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $31
  • Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $95

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Isle of Skye £7.71
Typical Alcohol Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Stratford-upon-Avon from other travelers:


  • Beers
    £8.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also in Stratford-upon-Avon, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Shakespeare Gin Distillery Tour & Taste: $24
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket: $25
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 1pm Ticket: $25


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

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 Isle of Skye Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye?

Stratford-upon-Avon has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Isle of Skye, 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 Isle of Skye?

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 Isle of Skye in the Summer?

Both Isle of Skye and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a little warmer than Isle of Skye. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 17°C (63°F), and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Isle of Skye during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Isle of Skye receives 150 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Isle of Skye. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stratford-upon-Avon 17°C (63°F) 
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye in the Autumn?

Both Isle of Skye and Stratford-upon-Avon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Isle of Skye in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Isle of Skye. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Isle of Skye receives 82 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Isle of Skye. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stratford-upon-Avon 11°C (52°F) 
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Isle of Skye. The winter months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year.

It's quite cold in Isle of Skye in the winter. The weather in Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold. In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Isle of Skye. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Isle of Skye averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Isle of Skye during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Isle of Skye receives 41 hours of full sun in the winter.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Isle of Skye. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stratford-upon-Avon 3°C (38°F) 
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Isle of Skye in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Isle of Skye. The small town charm are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a little warmer than Isle of Skye. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 9°C (48°F), and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Isle of Skye. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Isle of Skye receives 168 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Isle of Skye. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stratford-upon-Avon 9°C (48°F) 
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Isle of Skye and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Isle of Skye
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)