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

Should you visit Aalborg or Kinsale?

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 Kinsale. 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. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a quaint, picturesque, and colorful seaside town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Aalborg and Kinsale: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Aalborg or Kinsale?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kinsale. Although Aalborg and Kinsale are popular destinations, Kinsale has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kinsale is very popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Aalborg attracts visitors for its nightlife. Kinsale is more touristy than Aalborg and is popular for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. It is also well known for Charles Fort. Aalborg is famous for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

How is Aalborg different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kinsale 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 Kinsale?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Both Aalborg and Kinsale 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.

Kinsale offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the colorful old town, you can check out Charles Fort, James Fort, and Old Head Signal Tower. The town is filled with history and many unique landmarks that are worth exploring.


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

Aalborg
Kinsale

Kinsale is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Kinsale, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

Aalborg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Is Aalborg or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Aalborg is great for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Aalborg for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Kinsale specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

Is Aalborg or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Kinsale is a seaside town with a few options for its beaches. However, Aalborg is not a beach destination.

Kinsale is a good spot to see the beach. You'll find a number of beaches within about 20 minutes of town. The closest is Kinsale Beach, which is about 3 kilometers from the center of town. For a more peaceful setting, head out of town and check out Sandycove Beach, Garrylucas Blue Flag Beach, and Coolmain Beach.

Aalborg is not a beach destination.


Is Aalborg or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Kinsale is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Kinsale. The old town is filled with brightly colored houses, and it offers a unique setting that's different from many of Europe's more standard old towns.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Is Aalborg or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Kinsale is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

Kinsale offers some nice hiking trails. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aalborg or Kinsale?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kinsale and Aalborg.

Aalborg is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kinsale. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.


Is Aalborg or Kinsale Better for Families?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Both Aalborg and Kinsale 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.

Kinsale offers lots of family activities. If your kids need a break from the tourist circuit, there are a couple of playgrounds and outdoor centers around town. There's also one hour pony treks available at the Kinsale Equestrian Centre.

Is Aalborg or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Aalborg and Kinsale 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.

Kinsale makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From coastal walks to quaint streets, there are many picturesque places that a couple can explore. The town also has an impressive restaurant scene where couples can enjoy a great meal.

Is Aalborg or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Aalborg and Kinsale are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.


Is Aalborg or Kinsale Better for Students?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Aalborg is a town with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Aalborg. 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.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

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

Aalborg
Kinsale

Aalborg is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Aalborg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.

Is Aalborg or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Aalborg
Kinsale

Aalborg and Kinsale both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.


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

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Aalborg?

How long in Aalborg or Kinsale?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aalborg or Kinsale to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Aalborg than Kinsale 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 Kinsale.

Families should spend more time in Kinsale than Aalborg. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kinsale, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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


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

One day in Aalborg or Kinsale?

In Aalborg, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kinsale is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This seaside town 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 Kinsale?

In Aalborg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aalborg has to offer.

Kinsale might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kinsale has to offer.

Five days in Aalborg or Kinsale?

Aalborg is a great place to explore. 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.

Kinsale is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aalborg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aalborg. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kinsale. Since Kinsale is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.


Which place is cheaper, Kinsale 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 Kinsale is $138. 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 Kinsale in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aalborg $87
    Kinsale $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aalborg $174
    Kinsale $158
Compare Hotels in Aalborg and Kinsale

Looking for a hotel in Aalborg or Kinsale? 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 Kinsale


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 and Kinsale Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aalborg $32
    Kinsale $18

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 Kinsale?

Prices for flights to both Kinsale 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
    Kinsale $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aalborg $24
    Kinsale $5.36

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

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

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

Tours and Activities in Kinsale

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

  • Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour Cobh: $21
  • Visit 16 Sites Key Historical Sites And Experience Cobh Rebel Tours: $27
  • Cobh Evening Ghost Tour: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aalborg $19
    Kinsale $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Kinsale

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

  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Cork: Blarney Castle & Jameson Distillery: $147


When comparing the travel costs between Aalborg and Kinsale, 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 Kinsale Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aalborg or Kinsale?

Aalborg has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Aalborg and Kinsale, 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 Aalborg or Kinsale?

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 Aalborg or Kinsale in the Summer?

Both Kinsale and Aalborg during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aalborg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Aalborg usually gets more rain in July than Kinsale. Aalborg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Aalborg or Kinsale in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Aalborg and Kinsale. The autumn months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

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

In October, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Aalborg gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Aalborg or Kinsale in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Aalborg as well as Kinsale. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kinsale for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Aalborg in the winter. Aalborg is much colder than Kinsale in the winter. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Kinsale fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It's quite rainy in Kinsale. Aalborg usually gets less rain in January than Kinsale. Aalborg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F) 
    Kinsale 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Kinsale in the Spring?

Both Kinsale and Aalborg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Aalborg for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aalborg is cooler than Kinsale. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aalborg in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Kinsale averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In April, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Aalborg gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F) 
    Kinsale 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Aalborg

Aalborg Kinsale
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Mar 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in)