A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aalborg vs. Howth for Food, Nightlife, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Aalborg or Howth?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Aalborg and Howth. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a charming, local, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Howth

Howth is a scenic, peaceful, and coastal fishing village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for hiking, museums, and food.

Aalborg and Howth: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Aalborg or Howth?

Both Howth and Aalborg have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Aalborg is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Howth attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Howth is more touristy than Aalborg and is known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. Aalborg is famous for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

How is Aalborg different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aalborg or Howth?

Aalborg
Howth

Both Aalborg and Howth have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Aalborg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.

Howth offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.


Is the Food Better in Aalborg or Howth? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aalborg
Howth

Aalborg is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Aalborg. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Aalborg or Howth Better for Nightlife?

Aalborg
Howth

Aalborg is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Aalborg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is Aalborg or Howth Better for Beaches?

Aalborg
Howth

Howth is a great destination for its beaches. However, Aalborg is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Howth for it's beautiful beaches. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Aalborg is not a beach destination.


Is Aalborg or Howth Better for its Old Town?

Aalborg
Howth

Aalborg is a popular place for its old town. However, Howth does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Aalborg to see the old town. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Howth does not have a historic old town.

Is Aalborg or Howth Better for Hiking?

Aalborg
Howth

Howth is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aalborg or Howth?

Aalborg
Howth

Aalborg is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Aalborg offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Aalborg or Howth Better for Families?

Aalborg
Howth

Both Aalborg and Howth are nice family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aalborg. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Aalborg or Howth Better for Couples?

Aalborg
Howth

Aalborg and Howth both nice destinations for a couple.

Aalborg is a nice destination for couples. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.

Howth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Aalborg or Howth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aalborg
Howth

Aalborg is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.


Is Aalborg or Howth Better for Students?

Aalborg
Howth

Aalborg is a popular place for students. However, Howth is not popular with students.

Aalborg is popular with students. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

Howth is not popular with students.

Is Aalborg or Howth Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aalborg
Howth

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aalborg and Howth.

You'll find some public transit in Aalborg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system around town.

While Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Aalborg or Howth a more walkable city?

Aalborg
Howth

Howth is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Howth is very walkable. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.


For even more information, also check out Is Aalborg Worth Visiting? and Is Howth Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Howth or Aalborg?

How long in Aalborg or Howth?

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

Couples should spend more time in Aalborg than Howth. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Aalborg that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aalborg than Howth 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 Aalborg.


  • How many days in Aalborg or Howth? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aalborg 2-3 
    Howth 1-2

One day in Aalborg or Howth?

In Aalborg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this local destination offers. This town 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.

In Howth, you'll find food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This fishing village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Aalborg or Howth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aalborg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

In Howth, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Howth has to offer.

Five days in Aalborg or Howth?

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

Howth is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Aalborg or Howth?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Aalborg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Howth. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Howth. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Howth or Aalborg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aalborg is $156, while the average daily cost in Howth is $144. 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 Aalborg and Howth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aalborg $87
    Howth $68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aalborg $174
    Howth $136
Compare Hotels in Aalborg and Howth

Looking for a hotel in Aalborg or Howth? 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 Aalborg


Hotels in Howth


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: Aalborg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aalborg $32
    Howth $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $131
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $131
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $87
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg Airport (AAL) to Skagen Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg City Hotels to Skagen Cruise Port: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Aalborg or Howth?

Prices for flights to both Howth and Aalborg 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
    Aalborg $47
    Howth $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aalborg $24
    Howth $27

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

Here are a few actual costs in Aalborg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aalborg during WW2: Self-guided Audio Tour with StoryHunt: $14
  • 3-Hours Street Art Tour in Aalborg: $44
  • The best of Aalborg walking tour: $219
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $246
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $480

Tours and Activities in Howth

Here are a few actual costs in Howth for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Dublin: Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aalborg $19
    Howth $22


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



When is the best time to visit Aalborg or Howth?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aalborg or Howth in the Summer?

Both Howth and Aalborg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Howth for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aalborg is around the same temperature as Howth. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aalborg in July average around 16°C (61°F), and Howth averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In July, Aalborg usually receives more rain than Howth. Aalborg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Howth receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F) 
    Howth 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Howth in the Autumn?

Both Howth and Aalborg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aalborg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to Howth in the autumn for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Aalborg is generally cooler than Howth. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 9°C (48°F), and Howth fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Aalborg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Howth. Aalborg gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Howth receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F) 
    Howth 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Howth in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aalborg and Howth. Many visitors come to Aalborg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Aalborg can get quite cold in the winter. Aalborg is much colder than Howth in the winter. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Howth fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In January, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Howth. Aalborg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Howth receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F) 
    Howth 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Howth in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aalborg as well as Howth. Most visitors come to Aalborg for the small town charm during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Aalborg is cooler than Howth. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aalborg in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Howth averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in April than Howth. Aalborg gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Howth receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F) 
    Howth 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Howth and Aalborg

Aalborg Howth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)