A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dingle vs. Annecy for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Dingle or Annecy?

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

Should I visit Dingle or Annecy? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Dingle

Dingle is a rustic, picturesque, and serene peninsula. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a quaint, storybook, and charming alpine town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Dingle and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Dingle or Annecy?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Annecy. Although Dingle and Annecy are both popular with visitors, Annecy has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Annecy is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Dingle is known for its beaches. Annecy is more touristy than Dingle and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also home to Palais de l'Isle. Dingle is popular for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs.

How is Dingle different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dingle or Annecy?

Dingle
Annecy

Annecy is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

While most people don't head to Dingle specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the natural beauty, but there are a couple of landmarks in the area including the Eask Tower, Gallarus Oratory, and the Blasket Centre.


Is the Food Better in Dingle or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dingle
Annecy

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

For foodies, Annecy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dingle. You'll find great seafood throughout the peninsula. There's also traditional Irish food available including Irish stew or cabbage and bacon.

Is Dingle or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Dingle
Annecy

Annecy is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for nightlife.

Annecy has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Dingle doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area's not known for its nightlife but you can visit The Hillgrove, which is the peninsula's only nightclub. It's in a hotel and there is weekly entertainment.

Is Dingle or Annecy Better for Beaches?

Dingle
Annecy

Dingle is a great peninsula for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Dingle is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It's not hard to find a quiet beach with scenic views and a serene setting. Some of the best beaches in the area include Coumeenole, Brandon Bay, and Ventry.

Annecy is not a beach destination.


Is Dingle or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Dingle
Annecy

Annecy is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Dingle does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Annecy offers plenty to see. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Is Dingle or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Dingle
Annecy

If you're looking to go hiking, Dingle and Annecy both have great trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dingle. There are a variety of walking paths and hiking trails that take you through the coastal setting, rolling mountains, and remote nature. Some of the best trails in the area include the long distance hiking trail the Dingle Way, Mount Brandon, and Glenteenassig Forest Park.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Is the Shopping Better in Dingle or Annecy?

Dingle
Annecy

Annecy is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Dingle or Annecy Better for Families?

Dingle
Annecy

Annecy is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Annecy is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Dingle offers lots of family activities. There are coastal walks and beaches that are perfect for kids. You can also visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, do a dolphin tour, or enjoy some watersports. Horseback riding and Sandy Feet Farm are both fun as well.

Is Dingle or Annecy Better for Couples?

Dingle
Annecy

Annecy is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Annecy makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Dingle is a great peninsula if you're traveling as a couple. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.

Is Dingle or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dingle
Annecy

Dingle is a great peninsula for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Dingle. There are a good number of hostels on the peninsula and there are interesting music festivals and other events that make this a good backpacker destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.


Is Dingle or Annecy Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dingle
Annecy

Annecy is a popular place for its public transit. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Annecy, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dingle. Bus Eireann offers buses daily to Tralee and then there are connections to other destinations.

Is Dingle or Annecy a more walkable city?

Dingle
Annecy

Annecy is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its walkability.

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

Dingle is generally not a very walkable peninsula. If you have enough time, there are countless walking trails throughout the peninsula.

For even more information, also check out Is Dingle Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Dingle?

How long in Dingle or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Dingle or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dingle due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dingle, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy than Dingle 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 Annecy.


  • How many days in Dingle or Annecy? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dingle 2-5 
    Annecy 2-4

One day in Dingle or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Dingle. 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.

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Dingle or Annecy?

Dingle 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.

Annecy is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Dingle or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dingle. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Dingle or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the rustic destination of Dingle. This peninsula 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.

Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This alpine 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 10-Day Tours in Ireland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Annecy or Dingle?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dingle is €120, while the average daily cost in Annecy is €178. 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 Dingle and Annecy in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dingle 68
    Annecy 92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dingle 136
    Annecy 184
Compare Hotels in Dingle and Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Dingle or Annecy? 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 Dingle


Hotels in Annecy


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: Dingle Hotel Prices and Annecy Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dingle 17
    Annecy 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dingle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dingle:

  • Dingle To Kerry Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $185

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

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

  • Lyon : Luxury private transfer to Annecy in Van: $374
  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $295

Is it cheaper to fly into Dingle or Annecy?

Prices for flights to both Annecy and Dingle 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
    Dingle 41
    Annecy 58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Annecy

For Annecy, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide: $148
  • Private Market Tour and Modern French Cooking and Meal with a Local in Annecy: $188
  • Private Walking Food Tour: $348

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dingle 9.51
    Annecy 41

Tours and Activities in Dingle

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

  • 2-hour Guided Mini Eco Tour at Dingle, Ireland: $49
  • 3 Hour Slea Head Drive Tour - Personal Chauffeur Guided Tour: $283
  • Blasket Eco Tour.: $82
  • Blasket Island Sea Life Rib Tour,: $93
  • Boat Tour of Dingle Peninsula: $14
  • Dingle Bay Cliff Tour: $21
  • Dingle Boat Tours Wildlife RIB Adventure: $87
  • Dingle Dolphin Blasket Adventures: $84
  • Dingle Peninsula Guided Walking Tour: $174
  • Dingle Peninsula Virtual Tour: $16
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Drive Group Tour: $76
  • Dingle Tasting Tour: $109

Tours and Activities in Annecy

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Annecy.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Yakapedaler : bike rental tour with the Annecy lac: $21
  • Full-day private tour from Geneva to Annecy: $40
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dingle 16
    Annecy 34

Sample the Local Flavors in Annecy

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

  • Wine Tour with private driver: $850


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

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


Which is Bigger, Dingle or Annecy?

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

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 Dingle or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Dingle during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dingle this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dingle is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Dingle average around 15°C (59°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Dingle often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Dingle gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Dingle usually gets more rain in July than Annecy. Dingle gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dingle 15°C (59°F) 
    Annecy 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Dingle or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dingle and Annecy. Many travelers come to Dingle for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Annecy in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Dingle is cooler than Annecy in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dingle averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Dingle usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Dingle gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Dingle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Dingle usually receives more rain than Annecy. Dingle gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dingle 12°C (53°F) 
    Annecy 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Dingle or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dingle as well as Annecy. Many visitors come to Dingle in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Annecy can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Dingle is much warmer than Annecy. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dingle in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Annecy averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Dingle often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Dingle gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Dingle receives a lot of rain in the winter. Dingle usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Dingle gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dingle 7°C (44°F) 
    Annecy 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Dingle or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Dingle are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Dingle for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Annecy because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Dingle is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Dingle average around 9°C (48°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Dingle usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during spring. Dingle gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dingle usually receives more rain than Annecy. Dingle gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dingle 9°C (48°F) 
    Annecy 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Annecy and Dingle

Dingle Annecy
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)