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

Should you visit York or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

Should I visit York or Newcastle upon Tyne? 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 fanciful, historic, and medieval city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See York travel costs.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, high energy, and livable port city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Newcastle upon Tyne travel costs.

York and Newcastle upon Tyne: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in York or Newcastle upon Tyne?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in York than Newcastle upon Tyne. While Newcastle upon Tyne is larger than York, York has more sights and attractions for tourists. York is better known for its food and historical sights, while Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its shopping. York is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is popular for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. Also, York is famous for The Shambles. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene.

How is York different from Newcastle upon Tyne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

Both York and Newcastle upon Tyne have great 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 Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.


Is the Food Better in York or Newcastle upon Tyne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

York is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

York has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newcastle upon Tyne makes for a great culinary experience. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

Is York or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Nightlife?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

Both York and Newcastle upon Tyne are great when it comes to 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Is York or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for its Old Town?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

York is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

York offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Many visitors go to Newcastle upon Tyne to see the historical old town. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.


Is the Shopping Better in York or Newcastle upon Tyne?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Newcastle upon Tyne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is York or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Families?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

York is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

York is one of the most popular family destinations. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is York or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Couples?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

York is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.


Is York or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Is York or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Students?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for students. However, York is not popular with students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

York is not popular with students.

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

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Newcastle upon Tyne is fairly effecient and thorough. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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


Is York or Newcastle upon Tyne a more walkable city?

York
Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Newcastle upon Tyne on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne or York?

How long in York or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

Families should spend more time in York than Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne? Ideal Length of Stay
    York 2-4 
    Newcastle upon Tyne 2-3

One day in York or Newcastle upon Tyne?

In York, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

Many people visit York for a weekend. Lots of people come for the food. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

The destination of York offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. This port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting York. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

The historical port city of Newcastle upon Tyne 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, Newcastle upon Tyne or York?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • York Prices
    UK Prices
    Newcastle upon Tyne Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    York £130
    Newcastle upon Tyne £180

The average daily cost (per person) in York is £130, while the average daily cost in Newcastle upon Tyne is £180. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Newcastle upon Tyne £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Newcastle upon Tyne £102
Compare Hotels in York and Newcastle upon Tyne

Looking for a hotel in York or Newcastle upon Tyne? 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 Newcastle upon Tyne


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 Newcastle upon Tyne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Newcastle upon Tyne £12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $267

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Newcastle upon Tyne:


  • Parking
    £1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle upon Tyne

Also for Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $58
  • Newcastle Airport (NCL) to Newcastle - Arrival Private Transfer: $165

Is it cheaper to fly into York or Newcastle upon Tyne?

Prices for flights to both Newcastle upon Tyne 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 £56
    Newcastle upon Tyne £118
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.

  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $82
  • Party Cruise with Drink, Dinner, and DJ: $124,114

Typical Food Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newcastle Street Food Tour: $87
  • Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    York £11
    Newcastle upon Tyne £17

Tours and Activities in York

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

  • Time Travelers Walking Tour of York - Morning Tour : $20
  • All Creatures Great & Small tour from York: $69
  • City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $20
  • Clueniversity of Magic! Immersive Adventure in York City: $27
  • Comedy Horror Show: York Ghost Bus Tour: $25
  • Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York: $19
  • Discover the Best of York with 3 Self-Guided Audio Tours: $17
  • Europe’s Most Haunted City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of York: $7.99
  • Evening 'Happy Hour' Boat Cruise For All Ages In York: $19
  • Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York: $25
  • From North Moors and Whitby Tour: $68
  • Full-Day Discovering All Creatures Great and Small Tour of Yorkshire: $101

Tours and Activities in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins: $5.20
  • Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket: $16
  • Newcastle Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Sunderland by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • 1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour: $23
  • Newcastle True Crime Walking Tour: $23
  • A Silent Disco Adventure in Newcastle: $23
  • 1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle: $25
  • Northumberland Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $31
  • 2 Hour City Tour in Newcastle: $36
  • Lightfoot Tours: Historical Tour: $38
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    York £13
    Newcastle upon Tyne £9.43
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:

  • Historical Pub Walking Tour in York : $7.56
  • Guided Historic Pub Tour (York): $28
  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle upon Tyne:

  • Private Newcastle Pub Tour: $188
  • Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour: $201


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between York and Newcastle upon Tyne, we can see that Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, York or Newcastle upon Tyne?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York and Newcastle upon Tyne, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

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 York or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Summer?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and York during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to York this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, York is generally a little warmer than Newcastle upon Tyne. Daily temperatures in York average around 16°C (62°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, York often gets more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 159 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in July than Newcastle upon Tyne. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    York 16°C (62°F) 
    Newcastle upon Tyne 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit York or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Newcastle upon Tyne. Many travelers come to York for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the autumn for the shopping scene.

York is a little warmer than Newcastle upon Tyne in the autumn. The daily temperature in York averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Newcastle upon Tyne fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne during autumn. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, York usually receives less rain than Newcastle upon Tyne. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    York 11°C (52°F) 
    Newcastle upon Tyne 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit York or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to York as well as Newcastle upon Tyne. Many visitors come to York in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold during winter. York can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, York is a little warmer than Newcastle upon Tyne. Typically, the winter temperatures in York in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, York often gets more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 40 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. York usually gets less rain in January than Newcastle upon Tyne. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    York 4°C (39°F) 
    Newcastle upon Tyne 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit York or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Spring?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and York are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

In April, York is generally around the same temperature as Newcastle upon Tyne. Daily temperatures in York average around 8°C (46°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne during spring. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, York usually receives less rain than Newcastle upon Tyne. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    York 8°C (46°F) 
    Newcastle upon Tyne 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Newcastle upon Tyne and York

York Newcastle upon Tyne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)