As someone who has visited both cities recently, let’s take a balanced look at the battle of Dublin vs. Edinburgh: which city is better to visit in 2024?
The capital city of Ireland vs the capital city of Scotland – is it really possible to compare the two? It’s well known that the Irish and the Scottish have always felt a natural affinity for each other for centuries.
When comparing the craic, the friendly locals, the culture, and more, it’s clear as day that both nations have many similarities.
Any opinion articles are going to be subjective, and you might not agree with our take here! But we have visited both Dublin and Edinburgh recently, and one city shines a little brighter than the other these days.
Dublin – what it’s known for
It’s no secret that Dublin is a popular tourist location for many reasons. Some of the hotspots for visitors include the Guinness Storehouse, Glasnevin Cemetery, Kilmainham Gaol, and the Temple Bar area of the city.
You could spend a couple of nights in Dublin and have the best time, thanks to the cultural sites, the lively bars, and the bustling atmosphere that permeates throughout the city.
However, in recent years, Dublin has become increasingly more expensive, which puts many travellers off visiting.
Edinburgh – what it’s known for
Edinburgh is world-famous for its links to J.K. Rowling and the world of Harry Potter.
Anyone who has visited knows that the cobbled streets ooze with the charm of the Old Town’s medieval architecture that transports you back in time when you wander the streets.
Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill, and the numerous quirky cafes and bars that line the streets are just a number of things that attract visitors to the city.
Like Dublin, Edinburgh is not a cheap European escape. However, we think it is more affordable than Dublin.
Affordability – Dublin vs. Edinburgh
Now, if money is no object to you when considering a trip, then affordability won’t be a factor you tend to consider. However, most travellers like to lay out a budget or at least know what they’re in for spending-wise before a trip.
Prices of hotels, pints, food, and cultural excursions in Dublin have continued to climb in recent years, making it one of the most expensive European destinations.
Budgeting for food and expenses is one thing, but the price of a one-night stay in a just-about-decent hotel in Dublin these days would make your jaw drop.
According to Statista, the average price for a one-night stay in a double room in Dublin is around €284.
In comparison, we are not saying Edinburgh is a cheap city, because it’s absolutely not. However, it is somewhat more affordable than Dublin.
According to the same site, the average price for a one-night stay in Edinburgh is a much more attractive £126.
Regarding food and drinks, Edinburgh and Dublin are on a pretty even kilter, with a pint costing anywhere between £5 and £6.50.
Which city is better to visit in 2024? – where we think you should visit this year
Don’t get me wrong, I love Dublin. I would recommend visiting both cities if it’s possible, but if I had to choose one city to recommend visiting in 2024, it’s Edinburgh.
Edinburgh is a really cool city that, for me, has more pockets to be explored that aren’t overrun by tourists.
In Edinburgh, you can be sitting in the pub enjoying a pint one minute, then walking up Calton Hill for the views the next minute. Or you could trek up to Arthur’s Seat and back down again in time for a comedy show or a performance at the jazz club.
Explore the charm of Dean Village or indulge in a hot chocolate in one of the city’s many snug cafes. The options are truly endless.
One of my favourite things about Edinburgh is that depending on what time of year you visit, you will be met with a completely different experience.
From the cosy vibes of Christmas to the full bloom of spring and summer, the city looks completely different from one visit to the next.
If there’s one thing you can’t miss when visiting Edinburgh in the summer, it’s the Fringe Festival, which runs from 2 to 26 August in 2024.
So, which capital city will you choose to visit in 2024?
