A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Wales vs. Scotland for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Wales or Scotland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Wales and Scotland can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Where Should I go: Wales or Scotland?

Wales

While it's not terribly full of people, Wales definitely has its fair share of castles. This beautifully landscaped country is practically covered in majestic castles. These castles, and the country's rich history, created a popular tourist scene in Wales after it's time in the coal industry faded.

This little country to the west of England is a part of the larger United Kingdom. The UK, or Great Britain, is made up of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. Remember that those are four different countries when talking to the locals.

And the locals will want to talk. With a strong Celtic background, the Welsh are some of the funniest and friendliest people in the world.

With the rugged landscape and wild coasts, you'd never guess that this little country is only a two hour ride fro the bustling metropolis of London. The two areas are starkly different.

Scotland

The enchanting country of Scotland is made of rolling hills, lush scenery, charming villages and pubs filled with think accents and strong pints.

This country is a part of Great Britain - also known as the United Kingdom - which includes England, Wales and Northern Ireland. So be careful not to refer to the Scottish as "British," and especially avoid referring to them as "English." Just being aware of the difference will make your trip much smoother.

This lively and friendly country has gained a reputation for being dreary and damp. Well, the latter might true, it doesn't stop the Scots from having a grand time. Still, prepare to experience plenty of rain on your trip.

With over 700 islands and 5 million people, you'll have no problem finding stunning scenery and delightful conversation.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh.


Which place is cheaper, Scotland or Wales?

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

  • Wales Prices
    UK Prices
    Scotland Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wales £159
    Scotland £173

The average daily cost (per person) in Wales is £159, while the average daily cost in Scotland is £173. 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 Wales and Scotland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wales £84
    Scotland £72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wales £168
    Scotland £144
Compare Hotels in Wales and Scotland

Looking for a hotel in Wales or Scotland? 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 Wales


Hotels in Scotland


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wales £19
    Scotland £38

Is it cheaper to fly into Wales or Scotland?

Prices for flights to both Scotland and Wales 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
    Wales £57
    Scotland £63

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wales £23
    Scotland £26

Tours and Activities in Wales

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

  • Snowdonia: Guided Kayak Adventure: $74
  • South Cwmcarn Scenic Drive E-Bike Tour: $81
  • North GreenWood Family Park Entry Ticket: $128

Tours and Activities in Scotland

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

  • Birks of Aberfeldy: Highlands and the Tay Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Errichel Farm Tour : $19
  • Whisky Explorer Experience : $82

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wales £13
    Scotland £14

Sample the Local Flavors in Scotland

Also in Scotland, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Aberfeldy Distillery Experience: $26
  • From Edinburgh: Glenkinchie Distillery Tour & Whisky Tasting: $74


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


Which has a larger population, Wales or Scotland?

Scotland has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Wales. When comparing the sizes of Wales and Scotland, 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.