A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Windsor vs. Aberdeen for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Windsor or Aberdeen?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Windsor or Aberdeen? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a architectural, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Windsor or Aberdeen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Windsor and Aberdeen are popular destinations, Aberdeen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aberdeen is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Aberdeen and is known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Aberdeen is famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also well known for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Windsor different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Aberdeen?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Windsor and Aberdeen.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Many visitors head to Aberdeen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Aberdeen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Foodies will find both Windsor and Aberdeen both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Aberdeen is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Windsor or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Aberdeen.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

If you're looking for night time activities Aberdeen has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is Windsor or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Aberdeen?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Aberdeen offers some nice shopping areas. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Windsor is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Windsor is a very popular place to visit for couples. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.


Is Windsor or Aberdeen Better for Students?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a popular place for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Aberdeen is popular with students. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Windsor is not popular with students.

Is Windsor or Aberdeen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Windsor
Aberdeen

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Aberdeen.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

While Aberdeen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Is Windsor or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Windsor
Aberdeen

Windsor and Aberdeen both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

Aberdeen is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.


For even more information, also check out Is Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Windsor and Aberdeen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Aberdeen than in Windsor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aberdeen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aberdeen than Windsor 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 Aberdeen.


  • How many days in Windsor or Aberdeen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Aberdeen 2-3

One day in Windsor or Aberdeen?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Aberdeen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Windsor or Aberdeen?

Windsor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Windsor, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Aberdeen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aberdeen has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Aberdeen?

Windsor is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Windsor or Aberdeen?

Windsor is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Aberdeen or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Aberdeen is £121. 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 Windsor and Aberdeen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Aberdeen £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Aberdeen £130
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Aberdeen

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Aberdeen? 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 Windsor


Hotels in Aberdeen


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Aberdeen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Aberdeen £34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $59
  • Private Round-trip Transfer: From Heathrow Airport ↔ Windsor: $131
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $169
  • London: Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $406
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $588

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $58
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $185
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $89
  • Aberdeen Int Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
  • Aberdeen Int Airport ABZ to Glasgow Hotels Arrival Transfer: $123
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $51
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $51

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Aberdeen?

Prices for flights to both Aberdeen and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Aberdeen £35
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Aberdeen £19

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Guided Walking Tour of Windsor for large groups 10+: $1.31
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Windsor Town with Mobile App: $7.31
  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • LEGOLAND Adventure Golf: $13
  • Windsor Town Daily Walking Tour: $18
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour - 11am : $19
  • Guided Walking Tour of Windsor for small groups (min 4): $20
  • Guided Walking Tour of Royal Windsor for large groups 10+: $20
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $21
  • Golden Tours Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $25
  • City Walking Tour & Exploration Game: $30
  • Land and Water Amphibious Bus Sightseeing Tour: $35

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Aberdeen are as follows:

  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour: $19
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $20
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $66
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $67
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $70
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $72
  • North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen: $72
  • Loch Ness and the Highlands 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $107
  • From Balmoral Estate & Royal Deeside Tour: $111

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Aberdeen £3.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $35
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $36
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $157
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $419


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Aberdeen?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Aberdeen, 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 Windsor or Aberdeen?

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 Windsor or Aberdeen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Aberdeen. The summer months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year.

In July, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 18°C (64°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Aberdeen. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

In the autumn, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Aberdeen. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Aberdeen. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Aberdeen in the Winter?

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

Aberdeen can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Windsor. In the winter, Windsor is a little warmer than Aberdeen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Windsor in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Aberdeen in the Spring?

Both Aberdeen and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Windsor in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 9°C (48°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Aberdeen. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Windsor

Windsor Aberdeen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)