Between Scotland's historical, natural and tourist heritages, including the famous Edinburgh Castle, the Highlands, the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides... as well as the iconic sites, magnificent natural scenery and diverse activities that make Ireland famous; we understand whyit is difficult to decide which is the better destination.
Scotland or Ireland: Which one to choose?
Selection criteria, based on tourist attractions, must-see activities, climate, cost of living or budget, as well as the health and safety of each destination, make it easy to choose between Scotland and Ireland. One of the constituent nations of the United Kingdom, Scotland is particularly famous for its breathtaking scenery and cultural richness such as its iconic castles. This makes it a destination of choice for lovers of culture and nature. As for Ireland, this beautiful island is irresistible for its fantastic landscapes, such as the Giant's Causeway, the Skellig Islands, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its castles and monuments, as well as its cultural and sporting assets.
Which destination to choose according to climate and weather?
To better understand the most favorable destination from the climatic point of view, it is necessary to take into account the climatic conditions that allow to enjoy many bright days and to have pleasant stays.
Best climate: Ireland
Scotland and Ireland have the same climatic characteristics, as these two destinations are subject to an oceanic climate, with mild temperatures and a particularly humid atmosphere, almost all year round.
More information Ireland is slightly favored by its geographical location, because the influence of the Gulf Stream in the North Atlantic gives it mild temperatures, even in winter. Thus, winter days are more pleasant there than in Scotland. Likewise, there are more dry and luminous days. Therefore, in terms of climate and weather, Ireland is the preferred destination.
Dublin, The Bachelor Walk
Which destination to choose based on airfare?
Cheaper airfares during the high and low tourist season allow you to separate the two destinations and choose between Scotland and Ireland.
Cheapest average round-trip airfare: Ireland
For a difference of only two to six euros, the prices of airline tickets during the low season make it possible to match the two destinations. Nevertheless, Ireland is the preferred destination, when you have a small budget for airfare.
The destination to choose according to your budget
It is very important to know in advance the expenses during your stay, in order to determine which country to favor for an adequate travel budget. Find out which destination is advantageous in relation to the cost of living.
Cheapest country: Scotland
We can see that the difference in budgets is greater for a one or two week stay between these two wonderful destinations. Based on accommodation, food, transportation and activity costs: a stay in Scotland for two people for two weeks is less expensive than a stay in Ireland . Therefore, from a budget point of view, it is better to focus on Scotland, which also offers many interesting activities and assets.
Quality of life: health, safety, pollution
If you're in the mood for a trip to one of the best destinations to live, find out which of Scotland or Ireland offers the best health and safety coverage.
It's good to live in both Ireland and Scotland.
Ireland is one of the most expensive, but most visited countries in Europe, despite its painful past; but the security that reigns there today favors a pleasant atmosphere. Likewise, Scotland is among the top 10 most welcoming countries in the world in 2019. And for good reason - the people are particularly welcoming and safety is guaranteed.
Which destination to choose according to travelers' opinions: Scotland or Ireland?
If you are still having trouble making up your mind, you can also rely on the opinions of travelers who have had a successful stay in Scotland or Ireland.
Travelers prefer: Scotland and Ireland
It is to be expected that opinions will differ when choosing between Scotland and Ireland. Reviews from travelers who have made both destinations suggest that the two destinations are equal, even if they are not the same. In fact, if Scotland is accessible due to the affordable cost of living, Ireland is irresistible with its amazing natural wonders such as Connemara or the Cliffs of Moher, its cultural attractions and its festivities such as St. Patrick's Day.
Those who like to visit iconic castles, breathtaking scenery and various sporting activities prefer Scotland.
Edinburgh, the Royal Mile
Which destination to choose for a weekend or a week: Scotland or Ireland?
Which destination to choose depending on the time you have available: Scotland or Ireland? To answer this question, it is best to refer to the different activities to be carried out during this time.
For a family weekend, we chose Scotland.
Scottish traditions are for some the only reason for a short trip. From Edinburgh to the coastal towns, a weekend's time allows the family to admire the charm and authenticity of a country steeped in history. Off the west coast, the islands are great places to relax. You can also take a trip to the Highlands region.
For one week, we chose Ireland
Thanks to the numerous castles and museums, as well as the various activities that characterize Ireland, it is one of the perfect destinations for a stay of a week or more. In fact, party-goers and lovers of various sporting activities will not have time to get bored. The choice is wide between golf, rugby, horseback riding, not to mention relaxing on the beach and in the sun during the summer months.
Which country to choose, depending on the places of interest to visit?
Tourist attractions, culture and things to do make it easy to choose between Scotland or Ireland. You just have to take into account your expectations to determine the country to visit according to your passions.
The destination with the most cultural sites: Scotland
Scotland is one of the most visited destinations in Europe despite the not always ideal weather conditions. In addition to its cultural richness and natural wonders, visitors can discover 6 Scottish sites, listed as Unesco heritage sites: the Archipelago of Saint Kilda, the Antonine Wall, Edinburgh, the Neolithic heart of the Orkney Islands, the working-class town of New Lanark and The Forth Bridge.
The most festive destination: Ireland
Many foreigners come to spend their vacations in Ireland because the island has tourist attractions and various activities to have a good stay. Ireland has several cultural interests and sporting activities that make it famous in the world, such as coastering, kite buggy, golf, rugby. Not forgetting the famous St. Patrick's Day holiday , celebrated all over the island for 5 days. So those who like festivities can come to Ireland to have a good time.
Connemara
So, what is your choice: Scotland or Ireland?
Taking into account the above selection criteria and your expectations, you now know which destination appealed to you the most! Ireland is a must-visit if you are passionate about cultural discoveries, festivities and sporting activities. Scotland is worth the detour to combine cultural visits with relaxation and rejuvenation in mythical regions such as the Highlands. And you, what's your choice, let us know in the comments!
