A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Windsor vs. Isle of Skye for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Windsor or Isle of Skye?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Isle of Skye? 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 royal, traditional, and touristy town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a dramatic, scenic, and picturesque island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Windsor and Isle of Skye: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Windsor or Isle of Skye?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isle of Skye. Although Windsor 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, and hiking, while Windsor attracts visitors for its museums & sights, nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm. Windsor is famous for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Isle of Skye is famous for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. It is also well known for The Old Man of Storr.

How is Windsor 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 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 Isle of Skye?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Windsor is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Windsor. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Isle of Skye? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isle of Skye. 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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Windsor or Isle of Skye Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Windsor is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Windsor. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Isle of Skye is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. You can find a place for a glass of wine of a craft beer and relax with friends.

Is Windsor or Isle of Skye Better for Beaches?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is well known for the beache. However, Windsor is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Windsor is not a beach destination.


Is Windsor or Isle of Skye Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Windsor is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Windsor is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Windsor or Isle of Skye Better for Hiking?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor is not a hiking destination.

People visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is Windsor or Isle of Skye Better for Families?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Isle of Skye.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. 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.

Isle of Skye offers lots of family activities. 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 Windsor or Isle of Skye Better for Couples?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

With fun activities for couples, both Windsor and Isle of Skye make for a superb place to visit.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Isle of Skye is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Is Windsor or Isle of Skye Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Windsor is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Windsor has some public transit options. There is a bus system around town.

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 Windsor or Isle of Skye a more walkable city?

Windsor
Isle of Skye

Windsor is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable town. It's nice to explore on foot, but you need a vehicle to cover the long distances.

For even more information, also check out Is Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Isle of Skye or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Isle of Skye?

In either Windsor 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 Windsor because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 2-5 days is enough time in Isle of Skye.

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

Couples should spend more time in Windsor than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.


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

One day in Windsor or Isle of Skye?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and museums. 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, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This island 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 Isle of Skye?

Windsor 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer.


Five days in Windsor or Isle of Skye?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Isle of Skye?

Windsor 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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, Isle of Skye 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 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 Windsor and Isle of Skye in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Isle of Skye £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Isle of Skye £102
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Isle of Skye

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Isle of Skye £54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • Private Round-trip Transfer: From Heathrow Airport ↔ Windsor: $131
  • London: Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $406
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $591
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $169
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Isle of Skye?

Prices for flights to both Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
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
    Isle of Skye £19

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $240
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $117
  • From London: Stonehenge, Windsor, and Bath Small Group Tour: $228
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $241
  • Golden Tours Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $25
  • Guided Walking Tour of Royal Windsor for large groups 10+: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour of Windsor for large groups 10+: $1.31
  • Guided Walking Tour of Windsor for small groups (min 4): $20
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $46
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $154
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $420

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: $235

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Isle of Skye £7.71


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Windsor and Isle of Skye, we can see that Windsor 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 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 Isle of Skye.

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Isle of Skye?

Windsor has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor or Isle of Skye?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Windsor or Isle of Skye in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Isle of Skye. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Isle of Skye. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 18°C (64°F), and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the summer, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Isle of Skye. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Isle of Skye receives 150 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Isle of Skye. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Isle of Skye in the Autumn?

Both Isle of Skye and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year.

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

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Isle of Skye during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Isle of Skye receives 82 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Isle of Skye. In October, Windsor usually receives less rain than Isle of Skye. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Isle of Skye in the Winter?

Both Isle of Skye and Windsor during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Isle of Skye. It's quite cold in Windsor in the winter. In the winter, Windsor is around the same temperature as Isle of Skye. Typically, the winter temperatures in Windsor in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Isle of Skye averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Isle of Skye. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Isle of Skye receives 41 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Windsor usually gets less rain in January than Isle of Skye. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Isle of Skye in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Isle of Skye. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Isle of Skye during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Isle of Skye receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives less rain than Isle of Skye. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Isle of Skye and Windsor

Windsor Isle of Skye
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 7°C (44°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 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°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 (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)