A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Killarney for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Antwerp or Killarney?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Killarney can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a cultural, historical, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Killarney

Killarney is a charming, local, and natural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Antwerp and Killarney: 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
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Killarney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp. Although Antwerp and Killarney are popular destinations, Antwerp has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antwerp is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Killarney is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Killarney?

Antwerp
Killarney

Antwerp is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Antwerp. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Killarney offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.


Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp
Killarney

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Killarney can be an enjoyable experience.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Antwerp. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Killarney is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find great local fish and chips shops as well as locally caught seafood and regional produce. There are cafes and other independent restaurants that provide a local taste of the area.

Is Antwerp or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Killarney

Antwerp is well known for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Killarney doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Is Antwerp or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Killarney

Antwerp is well known for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Antwerp is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Antwerp or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Antwerp
Killarney

Killarney is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Killarney. You'll find many great hiking trails both in and around Killarney National Park. The town is also the starting and ending point for the 200 km Kerry Way walking trail. Other hikes worth checking out in the area include the Knockreer Circular Walk, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road Walk.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Killarney?

Antwerp
Killarney

Antwerp is terrific for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Antwerp or Killarney Better for Families?

Antwerp
Killarney

Killarney is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Killarney is a very kid-friendly town. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.


Is Antwerp or Killarney Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Killarney

Killarney is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Killarney frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Antwerp is a good port city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Antwerp or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Killarney

Antwerp and Killarney are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

It's common for backpackers to visit Killarney. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.

Is Antwerp or Killarney Better for Students?

Antwerp
Killarney

Antwerp is well known for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Antwerp. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Killarney is not popular with students.


Is Antwerp or Killarney Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antwerp
Killarney

Antwerp is a port city with good options for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Antwerp, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Public transit is mostly limited in Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.

Is Antwerp or Killarney a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Killarney

Antwerp is well known for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Antwerp is very walkable. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

Killarney is not a very walkable port city. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antwerp and Killarney. In our opinion, Antwerp has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Antwerp than Killarney. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-3 days is enough time in Killarney.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Killarney 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 Antwerp.


  • How many days in Antwerp or Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Antwerp or Killarney?

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

In Killarney, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Antwerp or Killarney?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Antwerp. 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 port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Killarney, 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 Killarney has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant port city of Antwerp. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Killarney is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 Antwerp or Killarney?

Antwerp 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Killarney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Antwerp?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €123, while the average daily cost in Killarney is €167. 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 Antwerp and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Killarney 102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Killarney 204
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp or Killarney? 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 Antwerp


Hotels in Killarney


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: Antwerp Hotel Prices and Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Killarney 20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $141
  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274
  • Transfer from Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Luxury Car or Van: $73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53
  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Antwerp 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
    Antwerp 39
    Killarney 46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Antwerp.

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Killarney.

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Killarney 19

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • Historical Walking Tour in the Old City: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.27
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.09
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audioguide App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $16
  • Walking Tour Big five Rubens' churches (audio): $16

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Killarney Hop - On, Hop - Off Tour: $16
  • Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall: $22
  • Guided Boat Tour to Innisfallen Island: $22
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on theTralee to Fenit Greenway: $27
  • Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney - Scenic Tour (Minimum 4 People - 1 way).: $33
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney : $36
  • Killarney Carriage Tours National Park and Lakes: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Killarney 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

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

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Killarney, we can see that Killarney is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp 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 Killarney would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Killarney than you might in Antwerp.

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


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Killarney?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Killarney, 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 Antwerp or Killarney?

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 Antwerp or Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antwerp is generally a little warmer than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 17°C (63°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Killarney. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Killarney in the Autumn?

Both Killarney and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Killarney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Antwerp usually gets less rain in October than Killarney. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Killarney in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Killarney. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine.

Antwerp can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Antwerp is much colder than Killarney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antwerp in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Killarney averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Killarney. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Killarney in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Killarney. The spring months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

In April, Antwerp is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 8°C (47°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Killarney. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Antwerp

Antwerp Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)