A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Kilkenny for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Kilkenny, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Kilkenny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kilkenny is more popular for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Amsterdam different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Kilkenny.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kilkenny. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kilkenny is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kilkenny. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

If you're looking for night time activities Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Is Amsterdam or Kilkenny Better for Music?

Amsterdam is terrific for its live music scene. However, Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam and Kilkenny both have excellent historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Kilkenny is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

Amsterdam is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Kilkenny has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Is Amsterdam or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Kilkenny is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Kilkenny is a very kid-friendly town. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Kilkenny are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Kilkenny is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.

Is Amsterdam or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is terrific for backpackers. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Amsterdam or Kilkenny Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is terrific for its public transit. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Amsterdam can take you anywhere. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

While Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.

Is Amsterdam or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Kilkenny is a very walkable destination. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Amsterdam or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Amsterdam than Kilkenny because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kilkenny.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Kilkenny 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

Amsterdam is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Kilkenny. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kilkenny has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

Amsterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Kilkenny. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the medieval town of Kilkenny. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Kilkenny is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Kilkenny, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Kilkenny much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kilkenny would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kilkenny and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in Kilkenny.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Amsterdam Expensive? and Is Kilkenny Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Kilkenny?

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

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 Amsterdam or Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the family-friendly experiences.

Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Kilkenny. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Kilkenny. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the spring for the natural beauty.

Amsterdam is cooler than Kilkenny in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kilkenny. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Amsterdam