A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom York vs. Inner Hebrides for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit York or Inner Hebrides?

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

Should I visit York or Inner Hebrides? 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a stunning, natural, and peaceful islands. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

York and Inner Hebrides: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in York or Inner Hebrides?

Tourists will generally find more to do in York. Although York and Inner Hebrides are both popular with visitors, York has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. York is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Inner Hebrides is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. York is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is popular for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. It is also home to The Shambles. Inner Hebrides is popular for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

How is York different from Inner Hebrides?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides?

York
Inner Hebrides

York is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in York or Inner Hebrides? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York
Inner Hebrides

York is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Inner Hebrides. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

Is York or Inner Hebrides Better for Nightlife?

York
Inner Hebrides

York is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

York has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is York or Inner Hebrides Better for Beaches?

York
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for its beaches. However, York is not a beach destination.

Inner Hebrides is considered a top beach destination. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

York is not a beach destination.


Is York or Inner Hebrides Better for its Old Town?

York
Inner Hebrides

York is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Inner Hebrides does not have a historic 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.

Inner Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

Is York or Inner Hebrides Better for Hiking?

York
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, York is not a hiking destination.

Inner Hebrides is a popular spot for hiking. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

York is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in York or Inner Hebrides?

York
Inner Hebrides

York is a popular place for shopping. However, Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in York. 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is York or Inner Hebrides Better for Families?

York
Inner Hebrides

York is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Inner Hebrides. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.

Is York or Inner Hebrides Better for Couples?

York
Inner Hebrides

With fun activities for couples, both York and Inner Hebrides make for a high quality place to visit.

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.

Inner Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

Is York or Inner Hebrides Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Inner Hebrides

York is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

York is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Inner Hebrides is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.


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

York
Inner Hebrides

York is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Inner Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.

Is York or Inner Hebrides a more walkable city?

York
Inner Hebrides

York is a popular place for its walkability. However, Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Inner Hebrides or York?

How long in York or Inner Hebrides?

In either York or Inner Hebrides, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Inner Hebrides than York because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for York, and 3-5 days is enough time in Inner Hebrides.

Families should spend more time in York than Inner Hebrides. 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 Inner Hebrides. 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 Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides? Ideal Length of Stay
    York 2-4 
    Inner Hebrides 3-5

One day in York or Inner Hebrides?

In York, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Inner Hebrides. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Inner Hebrides?

York is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Inner Hebrides is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Inner Hebrides?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the tranquil destination of Inner Hebrides. This islands offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in York or Inner Hebrides?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of York. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

The tranquil islands of Inner Hebrides offers food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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, Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides is £142. 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 Inner Hebrides in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Inner Hebrides £67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Inner Hebrides £134
Compare Hotels in York and Inner Hebrides

Looking for a hotel in York or Inner Hebrides? 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 Inner Hebrides


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Inner Hebrides £76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $279
  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $271
  • Private Transfer from Hambleton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $163

Is it cheaper to fly into York or Inner Hebrides?

Prices for flights to both Inner Hebrides 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
    Inner Hebrides £31
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: $51
  • Party Cruise with Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music: $56
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $83

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    York £11
    Inner Hebrides £22

Tours and Activities in York

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

  • All Creatures Great & Small tour from York: $100
  • Bishopthorpe Palace Christmas Cruise: $19
  • Castle Howard Entrance Ticket: $32
  • City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $20
  • Clueniveristy of Magic!! Immersive Adventure in York City: $24
  • Comedy Horror Show: York Ghost Bus Tour: $25
  • Dark Tales of York. Private ghost tours.: $61
  • Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York: $18
  • Discover York's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour of the City Walls: $11
  • Early Evening Boat Cruise through York: $18
  • Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York: $30
  • From Full-Day Yorkshire Dales Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    York £13
    Inner Hebrides £7.71
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:

  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $32
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience: $57


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

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