A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Lisse for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Aberdeen or Lisse?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Lisse? 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.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a authentic, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Aberdeen travel costs.

Lisse

Lisse is a colorful, picturesque, and stunning town. You'll find world class beauty in Lisse as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lisse travel costs.

Aberdeen and Lisse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Keukenhof Gardens


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Lisse?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Aberdeen and Lisse are popular destinations, Aberdeen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aberdeen is very popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and big city activities, while Lisse attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Lisse is more touristy than Aberdeen and is popular for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. 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 Aberdeen different from Lisse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Aberdeen
Lisse

Aberdeen is great for its historical sights. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Aberdeen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lisse. There are a handful of museums in the area, like the Museum de Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip), which showcases the history and art of the Dutch flower-growing industry, including exhibits on tulips, bulbs, and floral culture. And, of course, there's the Keukenhof Gardens, which is the main draw to the area during the spring season and one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.


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

Aberdeen
Lisse

Dining out at restaurants in both Aberdeen and Lisse can be an enjoyable experience.

Aberdeen offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Lisse has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

Is Aberdeen or Lisse Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Both Aberdeen and Lisse are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Lisse. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central areas.

Is Aberdeen or Lisse Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Aberdeen is great for its old town. However, Lisse does not have a historic old town.

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.

Lisse does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Lisse?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Both Aberdeen and Lisse are nice shopping destinations.

Aberdeen is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lisse. The town offers a range of shopping opportunities, especially in its charming town center. You’ll find boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty shops selling local products, such as Dutch cheeses, flowers, and souvenirs.

Is Aberdeen or Lisse More Beautiful?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Lisse is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Aberdeen is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lisse as well. Most visitors come for the Keukenhof Gardens, which are a breathtaking spectacle, renowned for their vibrant and meticulously arranged displays of millions of tulips and other flowers. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways, tranquil ponds, and themed flower beds, making it feel like a living painting in every corner.

Aberdeen is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Aberdeen or Lisse Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Aberdeen is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Lisse is a family-friendly place to visit. The Keukenhof Gardens has a few things to keep the kids entertained, like a play area and boat rides. Some kids will also enjoy seeing the millions of colorful tulips and other flowers. For a more interactive experience, families can head to the Flowerstrip, where children can explore local farms and see how flowers are grown. Also near town is Lisse is the Duinrell theme park, which has thrilling rides and a water park that’s perfect for a family day out.


Is Aberdeen or Lisse Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Lisse 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.

Lisse is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy this area, especially during the spring when the Keukenhof Gardens come alive with vibrant tulip fields and flower displays. There are also boat rides through the nearby canals, surrounded by beautiful countryside. A visit to the nearby Keukenhof Castle provides a charming atmosphere, with its elegant gardens and tea room. perfect for relaxing together. Couples can also explore the local flower fields by bike.

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 Aberdeen or Lisse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Lisse is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Lisse. The entrance fee to Keukenhof Gardens can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy nearby, like cycling through the beautiful tulip fields or exploring the nearby countryside. Budget accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, can be found in Lisse or in nearby towns like Leiden, offering affordable options for travelers.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Lisse Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Aberdeen is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Lisse is not popular with students.

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

Lisse is not popular with students.


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

Aberdeen
Lisse

Both Aberdeen and Lisse offer nice public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few 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.

Lisse has some public transit options. There are buses that travel from Schiphol Airport and elsewhere in the country to Keukenhof Gardens. It's best to book your tickets in advance.

Is Aberdeen or Lisse a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Lisse

Aberdeen is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Lisse is a somewhat walkable city. Many visitors bike through the tulip fields outside of the Keukenhof Gardens. You could walk, but you'll cover more ground with a bicycle.

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

Should I spend more time in Lisse or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Lisse?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aberdeen or Lisse to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Aberdeen than Lisse because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lisse.

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


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

One day in Aberdeen or Lisse?

In Aberdeen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful town of Lisse offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Aberdeen or Lisse?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Lisse 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 Lisse, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Lisse?

Aberdeen is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Aberdeen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisse 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.

A week in Aberdeen or Lisse?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lisse 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from London, The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Lisse or Aberdeen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aberdeen is £146, while the average daily cost in Lisse is £156. 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 Aberdeen and Lisse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Lisse £69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Lisse £138
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Lisse

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Lisse? 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 Aberdeen


Hotels in Lisse


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: Aberdeen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Lisse £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $61
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisse

Also for Lisse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Haarlem to cruise port in Amsterdam: $84
  • From The Hague: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $294
  • From Rotterdam: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $341

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Lisse?

Prices for flights to both Lisse and Aberdeen 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
    Aberdeen £60
    Lisse £71

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aberdeen

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

  • City Walking and Food Tour: $115

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisse

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

  • Haarlem's Food-steps: A self-guided Food Tour: $43
  • Guided Food Tour Haarlem (min. 2 persons) - Many local tastings : $106

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

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

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

  • 2 hour Gin School Experience in Aberdeen: $191
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Aberdeen - Private North East Coastal Tour: $829
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $19
  • Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour: $120
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $67
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $20
  • Aberdeen's Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour: $115
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Bullers of Buchan Puffin Watching Tour: $424
  • City Center and Old Aberdeen Walking Tour: $94
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $20

Tours and Activities in Lisse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lisse.

  • Haarlem 2-Hour Walking Tour | Discover The City With A Local: $3.57
  • Haarlem Battle Quest: Self-Guided City Defense Adventure: $5.95
  • Pub Trail Haarlem: an adventure full of surprises: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio guided walking tour Tour of Haarlem: $16
  • Haarlem: 50 minutes Boat Cruise: $22
  • Leiden: Windmill and Countryside Cruise near Keukenhof: $23
  • Haarlem Open Canal Tour with a real live guide: $23
  • 90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Haarlem: $23
  • Drive-it-Yourself Summer Flower GPS Audio Tour: $29
  • Self-Drive Electric Car Dune and Beach Audio Tour: $29
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour Throughout History & Highlights of Haarlem: $29
  • Discover Haarlem with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Lisse £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $47
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $48
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $189
  • Aberdeen, Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group Day Tour: $433


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


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Lisse?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Lisse. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Lisse, 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 Aberdeen or Lisse?

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 Aberdeen or Lisse in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Lisse. The summer months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisse this time of year.

In the summer, Aberdeen is cooler than Lisse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aberdeen in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Lisse averages at about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisse. In the summer, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Lisse. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 204 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets less rain in July than Lisse. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Lisse 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Lisse in the Autumn?

Both Lisse and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lisse for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Lisse. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 9°C (49°F), and Lisse fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lisse during autumn. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lisse. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Lisse 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Lisse in the Winter?

Both Lisse and Aberdeen during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lisse in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lisse can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Aberdeen. Aberdeen is much warmer than Lisse in the winter. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Lisse fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Aberdeen often gets more sunshine than Lisse. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 46 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in January than Lisse. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Lisse 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Lisse in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Lisse. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lisse for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Aberdeen is cooler than Lisse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aberdeen in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Lisse averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Lisse during spring. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lisse. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Lisse and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Lisse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)