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

Should you visit York or Aberdeen?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a historic, medieval, and fanciful city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a historic, cultural, and architectural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

York and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in York or Aberdeen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aberdeen than York, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Aberdeen is more popular for its big city activities, while York is known for its food, nightlife, and historical sights. York is more touristy than Aberdeen and is known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. Aberdeen is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also home to St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is York different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

York
Aberdeen

Both York and Aberdeen have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

York offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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 York or Aberdeen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York
Aberdeen

York is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, York is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 York or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

York
Aberdeen

York is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

York offers plenty to do in the evening. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is York or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

York
Aberdeen

York is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, York offers plenty to see. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.


Is the Shopping Better in York or Aberdeen?

York
Aberdeen

Both York and Aberdeen are good shopping destinations.

York is a great destination for shopping. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. 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.

Is York or Aberdeen Better for Families?

York
Aberdeen

York is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, York is a very family-friendly destination. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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

Is York or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

York
Aberdeen

York 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.

York is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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 York or Aberdeen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Aberdeen

York is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is York or Aberdeen Better for Students?

York
Aberdeen

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

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

York is not popular with students.

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

York
Aberdeen

Both York and Aberdeen offer good public transit options.

York has a few public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Aberdeen has some public transit options. 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 York or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

York
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or York?

How long in York or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both York and Aberdeen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in York than in Aberdeen. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for York, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aberdeen.

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

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

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


  • How many days in York or Aberdeen? Ideal Length of Stay
    York 2-4 
    Aberdeen 2-3

One day in York or Aberdeen?

The city of York offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Aberdeen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or Aberdeen?

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

Aberdeen is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in York or Aberdeen?

York is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Aberdeen. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Aberdeen?

York is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

The cultural city of Aberdeen offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 2-Week Tours from London, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh.


Which place is cheaper, Aberdeen or York?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in York is £106, 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 York and Aberdeen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Aberdeen £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Aberdeen £130
Compare Hotels in York and Aberdeen

Looking for a hotel in York 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 York


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: York Hotel Prices and Aberdeen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Aberdeen £34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hambleton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $166
  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $278
  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $285

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Private Transfer from Aberdeen Airport to Lecht Ski Resort : $33
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $51
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $51
  • Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) to Stonehaven - Arrival Private Transfer: $56
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $58
  • Private Transfer from Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) to Invergordon Port: $117
  • Aberdeen Int Airport ABZ to Glasgow Hotels Arrival Transfer: $122
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into York or Aberdeen?

Prices for flights to both Aberdeen and York 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
    York £32
    Aberdeen £35
Typical Food Prices in York

Some typical examples of dining costs in York are as follows:


  • Dinner
    £22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in York.

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $53
  • Party Cruise with Drink, Dinner, and DJ: $58
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    York £11
    Aberdeen £19

Tours and Activities in York

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

  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Mobile App: $7.13
  • Tower Tour: $7.98
  • Europe’s Most Haunted City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of York: $7.99
  • York Treasure Hunt Adventure: The Mystery of The Gunpowder Snitch: $9.97
  • York’s Snickelways Story Walking Tour: $10
  • Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • The Devilish Ghost Walk Tour: $13
  • Interactive Hi Tech Quiz Experience in the City Center: $13
  • Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour & Best of York Award 2024: $13
  • York Bird of Prey Centre Entry Ticket: $14
  • Local History Walking Tour: $16
  • J & M York City Walking Tours: $16

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: $71
  • North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen: $71
  • Loch Ness and the Highlands 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $107
  • From Balmoral Estate & Royal Deeside Tour: $111

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    York £13
    Aberdeen £3.57
Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    £9.00

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Guided Historic Pub Tour (York): $26
  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $33
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $50
  • The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience: $60

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 comparing the travel costs between York and Aberdeen, we can see that Aberdeen 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 York Expensive? and Is Aberdeen Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, York or Aberdeen?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York or Aberdeen in the Summer?

Both Aberdeen and York are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to York because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year.

York is a little warmer than Aberdeen in the summer. The daily temperature in York averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    York 16°C (62°F) 
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit York or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

Both Aberdeen and York during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to York this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, York is a little warmer than Aberdeen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in York in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, York often gets more sunshine than Aberdeen. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in October than Aberdeen. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    York 11°C (52°F) 
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit York or Aberdeen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Aberdeen. Many travelers come to York for the museums, the shopping scene, 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 York. In January, York is generally a little warmer than Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in York average around 4°C (39°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Aberdeen during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives less rain than Aberdeen. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    York 4°C (39°F) 
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit York or Aberdeen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to York as well as Aberdeen. Also, most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months.

York is a little warmer than Aberdeen in the spring. The daily temperature in York averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, York often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in April than Aberdeen. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    York 8°C (46°F) 
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and York

York Aberdeen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)