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

Should you visit Bruges or Killarney?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Killarney. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a charming, historic, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Killarney

Killarney is a local, natural, and peaceful town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Bruges and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Killarney?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bruges than Killarney, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bruges is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Killarney is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Bruges is more touristy than Killarney and is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Also, Bruges is famous for Bruges' Markt (The Main Square). Killarney is well known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

How is Bruges different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bruges 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 Bruges. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

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 Bruges or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bruges is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bruges makes for a great culinary experience. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Bruges or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

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

Bruges has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

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 Bruges or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is terrific for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Bruges has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Is Bruges or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Killarney is great for hiking. However, Bruges is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Killarney for the hiking trails. 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.

Bruges is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Killarney?

Bruges is a city with good options for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bruges or Killarney Better for Families?

Killarney is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Bruges or Killarney Better for Couples?

Bruges and Killarney both very good destinations for a couple.

Bruges is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

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.

Is Bruges or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges is well known for backpackers. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Bruges or Killarney Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bruges is a 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 Bruges, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

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

Is Bruges or Killarney a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored 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 Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Killarney?

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

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

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

One day in Bruges or Killarney?

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bruges or Killarney?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bruges. 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.

Killarney is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bruges or Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Bruges. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bruges or Killarney?

Bruges 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the charming destination of Killarney. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bruges and Killarney, we can see that Killarney is more expensive. And not only is Bruges much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bruges would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bruges 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 Bruges.

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

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Killarney?

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

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 Bruges or Killarney in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Killarney. Most visitors come to Bruges for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bruges is a little warmer than Killarney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bruges in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Killarney averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bruges this time of the year. In the summer, Bruges often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in July than Killarney. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Killarney in the Autumn?

Both Killarney and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Bruges because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

In October, Bruges is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 12°C (54°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Bruges usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during autumn. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. In October, Bruges usually receives less rain than Killarney. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bruges or Killarney in the Winter?

Both Killarney and Bruges during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bruges in the winter. Bruges is much colder than Killarney in the winter. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Bruges often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bruges usually gets less rain in January than Killarney. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Killarney in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Killarney. Many travelers come to Bruges for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bruges is around the same temperature as Killarney. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bruges in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Killarney averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Bruges usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney during spring. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bruges usually receives less rain than Killarney. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Killarney and Bruges