A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dingle vs. Cairngorms National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Dingle or Cairngorms National Park?

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

Should I visit Dingle or Cairngorms National Park? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a tranquil, remote, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Dingle and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Dingle or Cairngorms National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dingle. Although Dingle and Cairngorms National Park are popular destinations, Dingle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dingle is famous for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs. It is also well known for The Gallarus Oratory. Cairngorms National Park is famous for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

How is Dingle different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

Dingle is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Dingle or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Dingle and Cairngorms National Park can be an enjoyable experience.

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cairngorms National Park. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Dingle or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

Dingle is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dingle. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Dingle or Cairngorms National Park Better for Beaches?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

Dingle is a very popular place for the beach. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Dingle or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Dingle and Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Is Dingle or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

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

Cairngorms National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Dingle and Cairngorms National Park make for a great place to visit.

Couples visit Dingle frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.

Cairngorms National Park is a great peninsula if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.


Is Dingle or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

Dingle is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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 Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

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

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dingle and Cairngorms National Park.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Dingle or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Dingle
Cairngorms National Park

Dingle is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Dingle Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Dingle?

How long in Dingle or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Dingle or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Dingle has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Dingle than Cairngorms National Park. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dingle, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dingle than Cairngorms National Park 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 Dingle.


  • How many days in Dingle or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dingle 2-5 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Dingle or Cairngorms National Park?

With food around the picturesque peninsula of Dingle, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Cairngorms National Park. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

With food around the serene destination of Dingle, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this peninsula makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cairngorms National Park is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Dingle or Cairngorms National Park?

With food around the scenic peninsula of Dingle, there's plenty to do. This peninsula offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairngorms National Park. 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.


A week in Dingle or Cairngorms National Park?

Dingle is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful destination of Cairngorms National Park. This national park 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 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dingle 68
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dingle 136
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Dingle and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Dingle or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dingle 17
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dingle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dingle:

  • Dingle To Kerry Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Dingle or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park 35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dingle 9.51
    Cairngorms National Park 31

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 Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dingle 16
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83


When comparing the travel costs between Dingle and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park 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 Dingle Expensive? and Is Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Dingle or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dingle as well as Cairngorms National Park. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dingle this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Dingle is around the same temperature as Cairngorms National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Dingle averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Dingle often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park. Dingle gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Dingle usually gets more rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Dingle gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dingle 15°C (59°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Dingle or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Dingle are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dingle for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dingle is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dingle in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Dingle usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Dingle gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Dingle. In October, Dingle usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Dingle gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dingle 12°C (53°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Dingle or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Dingle during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dingle in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Cairngorms National Park can be very cold during winter. In January, Dingle is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Dingle average around 7°C (44°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Dingle often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park. Dingle gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dingle. Dingle usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Dingle gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dingle 7°C (44°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Dingle or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dingle and Cairngorms National Park. Most visitors come to Dingle for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the natural beauty.

Dingle is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Dingle averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Dingle usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Dingle gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dingle usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Dingle gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dingle 9°C (48°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Dingle

Dingle Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)