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

Should you visit Bath 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 Bath and Killarney can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bath

Bath is a architectural, charming, and historical spa town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Killarney

Killarney is a peaceful, charming, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Bath 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Historic Roman Baths
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bath or Killarney?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bath. Although Bath and Killarney are both popular with visitors, Bath has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bath is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Killarney is known for its hiking. Bath is popular for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums. It is also home to The Historic Roman Baths. Killarney is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

The Historic Roman Baths
The Historic Roman Baths

How is Bath different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bath
Killarney

Bath is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Bath that are not to be missed. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.

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 Bath or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bath
Killarney

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bath. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Killarney. 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 Bath or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Bath
Killarney

Bath is a spa town with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Bath has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.

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 Bath or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Bath
Killarney

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

Bath is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively atmosphere.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Bath or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Bath
Killarney

Killarney is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Bath is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Bath is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bath or Killarney?

Bath
Killarney

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

Bath is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bath or Killarney Better for Families?

Bath
Killarney

Killarney is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Killarney is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bath. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.


Is Bath or Killarney Better for Couples?

Bath
Killarney

Bath is terrific for romance. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Bath is a great spa town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

Killarney is a great spa town if you're traveling as a couple. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Is Bath or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bath
Killarney

Bath and Killarney are both good destinations for backpackers.

Bath is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.

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 Bath or Killarney Better for Students?

Bath
Killarney

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

Students come from all over to stay in Bath. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.

Killarney is not popular with students.


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

Bath
Killarney

Bath is a spa town 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 Bath, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.

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

Is Bath or Killarney a more walkable city?

Bath
Killarney

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

Getting around Bath on foot is easy. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.

Killarney is not a very walkable spa town. 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 Bath Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Bath?

How long in Bath or Killarney?

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

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

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


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

One day in Bath or Killarney?

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Bath or Killarney?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Bath. 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 spa town has to offer. This spa town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Killarney is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bath or Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the architectural spa town of Bath. 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 museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and food around the charming destination of Killarney. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bath or Killarney?

Bath 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.

The charming town of Killarney offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Bath?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bath is £141, while the average daily cost in Killarney is £143. 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 Bath and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bath £79
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bath £158
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Bath and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Bath 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 Bath


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: Bath Hotel Prices and Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bath £26
    Killarney £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bath

Also for Bath, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Bath".: $161
  • Bath to Heathrow Airport private airport transfer: $291
  • Bus Transfer to/from Bristol Airport: $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Bath or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Bath 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
    Bath £43
    Killarney £39

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.
    Bath £17
    Killarney £16
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bath

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Bath's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thermal Bath Spa
    £35

Tours and Activities in Bath

For Bath, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Bridgeton Walking Tour with an APP: $8.99
  • Bath : 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour With An App: $8.99
  • 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour in Bath with An App: $9.99
  • Discover Bath's Timeless Charm: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Bath Self-Guided Private Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Jane Austen Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour in Bath: $13
  • Bath Private Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13
  • Bath & Stonehenge City Break from London - Self-Guided Tours: $13
  • The Soul Spa: TRIPP Spa Virtual Reality Experience: $19
  • Mystery Urban Adventure City Exploration Game: $19
  • Bath Abbey Entry Ticket and Guided Tower Tour: $19

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park: $38
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Bus & Boat Tour: $63
  • Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour (Jaunting Cart Paid Separately) : $63
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Day Tour: $39
  • From Portmagee & Skellig Ring Full-Day Tour: $75
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach: $65
  • Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour: $59
  • Gap of Dunloe Day Tour and Boat Ride from Killarney: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bath £14
    Killarney £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Bath

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bath:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


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


Which is Bigger, Bath or Killarney?

Bath has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Bath 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.