A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Basel vs. Killarney for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Basel or Killarney?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Killarney, 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.

Basel

Basel is a beautiful, vibrant, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Killarney

Killarney is a natural, peaceful, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Basel 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Basel or Killarney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Basel. Although Basel and Killarney are popular destinations, Basel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Basel is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Killarney is more touristy than Basel and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town. It is also well known for The Kunstmuseum Basel.

How is Basel different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Basel
Killarney

Basel 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 Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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 Basel or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Basel
Killarney

Foodies will find both Basel and Killarney both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Basel. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

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 Basel or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Basel
Killarney

Basel is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Basel has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

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 Basel or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Basel
Killarney

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

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Basel or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Basel
Killarney

Killarney is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

Killarney is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Killarney?

Basel
Killarney

Basel is well known for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Basel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Basel or Killarney Better for Families?

Basel
Killarney

Basel and Killarney are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Killarney. 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.


Is Basel or Killarney Better for Couples?

Basel
Killarney

Killarney is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Killarney is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Basel
Killarney

Both Basel and Killarney are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Killarney is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Basel or Killarney Better for Students?

Basel
Killarney

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

Students come from all over to stay in Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Killarney is not popular with students.


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

Basel
Killarney

Basel is well known for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Basel. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Basel or Killarney a more walkable city?

Basel
Killarney

Basel is terrific for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Basel on foot is easy. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Killarney is not a very walkable 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 Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Basel?

How long in Basel or Killarney?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel 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 Basel.


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

One day in Basel or Killarney?

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

In Killarney, many people enjoy the food and museums that this local destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


A weekend in Basel or Killarney?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Basel or Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Basel. 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.

Killarney is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Basel or Killarney?

Basel 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.

You'll find museums and food around the charming destination of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Basel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Basel is $236, while the average daily cost in Killarney is $179. 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 Basel and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Basel $143
    Killarney $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Basel $286
    Killarney $220
Compare Hotels in Basel and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Basel 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 Basel


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: Basel Hotel Prices and Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Basel $45
    Killarney $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Basel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Basel:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • Basel Airport Transfer: Basel to EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) in Business Car: $108
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Car: $157
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • ONE WAY: Basel Train Station (ZDH) to / from Basel transfer: $88
  • Private Direct Transfer from Basel to Zurich: $205
  • Private One-way Transfer From Basel to Zurich, English Speaking Driver: $186
  • Private Transfer From Basel To Bern With a 2 Hour Stop in Olten: $224
  • Private Transfer from Basel to Zurich with 3h Sightseeing Stops: $251
  • Private Transfer: Basel Airport BSL to Zurich in Luxury Van: $261
  • Private direct transfer from Basel to Lucerne with a local driver: $177
  • Private transfer from Basel to Strasbourg with a local driver: $233

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Basel or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Basel 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
    Basel $61
    Killarney $49

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.
    Basel $37
    Killarney $20

Tours and Activities in Basel

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Basel are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Basel Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Basel's Portrait: Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Basel's Portrait Self Guided Audio City Tour: $5.60
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $8.99
  • The Best of Basel’s Hidden Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Uncover Basel's Charms: In-App Audio Tour of Cultural Gems: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Basel's Portrait: Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Basel (Kleinbasel) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15

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
    Basel $33
    Killarney $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Basel

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

  • Pub Crawl Meet People and Hidden Bars and Clubs: $33
  • Pinot Noir & Pinot Wine Tour to Baden-Württemberg: $279
  • Fantastic, full day, private wine tour to Alsace!: $285
  • Half Day Private Cheese & Wine Tasting in Vineyard in Basel: $289

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

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


Which is Bigger, Basel or Killarney?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel 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 Basel or Killarney in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Killarney. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Basel is generally a little warmer than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 21°C (70°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Basel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Basel usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Killarney. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Basel 21°C (70°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Basel or Killarney in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Basel as well as Killarney. Many travelers come to Basel for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Killarney in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Basel is a little warmer than Killarney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. Basel usually gets less rain in October than Killarney. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Basel 13°C (56°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Basel or Killarney in the Winter?

Both Killarney and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Basel in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Basel can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Basel is much colder than Killarney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Basel in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Killarney averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Basel usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. In January, Basel usually receives less rain than Killarney. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Basel 3°C (37°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Basel or Killarney in the Spring?

Both Killarney and Basel during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Basel for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Killarney because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Basel is generally a little warmer than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 12°C (53°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

Basel usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Killarney. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Basel 12°C (53°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Basel

Basel Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)