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

Should you visit Antwerp or Kinsale?

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 Kinsale can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a historical, youthful, and vibrant port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a quaint, picturesque, and colorful seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Antwerp and Kinsale: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Kinsale?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antwerp than Kinsale, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antwerp is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kinsale is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kinsale is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. Also, Antwerp is famous for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Antwerp is great for its historical sights. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kinsale. 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 Antwerp or Kinsale? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kinsale is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Kinsale has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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!

Is Antwerp or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Antwerp for the nightlife scene. 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.

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 Antwerp or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Kinsale is a seaside town with a few options for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Kinsale. 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.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp and Kinsale are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antwerp. 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.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to see the historical old town. 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.

Is Antwerp or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Kinsale. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Kinsale?

Antwerp is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Antwerp draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to go shopping. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.

Is Antwerp or Kinsale Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Kinsale.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. 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.

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 Antwerp or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Both Antwerp and Kinsale are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Kinsale is a good port city for couples to visit. 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 Antwerp or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and Kinsale are notable 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 Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.

Is Antwerp or Kinsale Better for Students?

Antwerp is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale 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.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

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

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

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.

Is Antwerp or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Antwerp is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its ease of walking around.

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

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable port city. 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 Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Kinsale Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Kinsale?

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

Couples should spend more time in Antwerp than Kinsale. 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 Kinsale 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.

One day in Antwerp or Kinsale?

In Antwerp, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Antwerp or Kinsale?

In Antwerp, you'll find food and shopping. 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 shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Kinsale?

Antwerp 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.

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 Antwerp or Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

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 Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Kinsale?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp 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 Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Kinsale in the Summer?

Both Kinsale and Antwerp during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Kinsale in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Kinsale fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Antwerp. In the summer, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Kinsale. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than Kinsale. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Kinsale in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Kinsale. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Kinsale for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Antwerp is around the same temperature as Kinsale. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Kinsale averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Kinsale during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antwerp or Kinsale in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Kinsale. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Antwerp can be very cold during winter. In January, Antwerp is generally much colder than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kinsale. Antwerp usually gets less rain in January than Kinsale. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Kinsale in the Spring?

Both Kinsale and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Kinsale in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Kinsale fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kinsale during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Antwerp