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

Should you visit Dingle or Glencoe?

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

Should I visit Dingle or Glencoe? 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 serene, natural, and scenic peninsula. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Glencoe

Glencoe is a beautiful, picturesque, and natural village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Dingle and Glencoe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Dingle or Glencoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dingle. Although Dingle and Glencoe are popular destinations, Dingle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dingle is very popular for its museums and beaches, while Glencoe attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Dingle is more touristy than Glencoe and is known for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs. It is also well known for The Gallarus Oratory. Glencoe is famous for its mountaineering, hiking, and beautiful natural setting.

How is Dingle different from Glencoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Glencoe 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 Glencoe?

Dingle
Glencoe

Dingle is a peninsula with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.

Dingle offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Dingle
Glencoe

Dining out at restaurants in both Dingle and Glencoe 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 Glencoe. Local specialties include seafood and pub food. You'll also find plenty of whisky and local beer. There are a variety of dining options with local pubs alongside fine dining restaurants.

Is Dingle or Glencoe Better for Nightlife?

Dingle
Glencoe

It's hard to distinguish whether Dingle or Glencoe has a better nightlife scene.

Dingle is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Glencoe doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a handful of bars where you can relax with local whisky or beer.

Is Dingle or Glencoe Better for Beaches?

Dingle
Glencoe

Dingle is well known for the beach. However, Glencoe is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Dingle attract visitors from all over. 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.

Glencoe is not a beach destination.


Is Dingle or Glencoe Better for Hiking?

Dingle
Glencoe

If you're looking to go hiking, Dingle and Glencoe both have excellent 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 Glencoe for the hiking trails. The area has dramatic hikes and stunning landscapes. Some of the best walks through the countryside include Inchree Falls, Grey Mare's Tail & Mamore Lodge, and The Two Lairigs.

Is Dingle or Glencoe Better for Families?

Dingle
Glencoe

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

Glencoe is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Take a steam train along the Harry Potter Line. You'll feel like you're aboard the Hogwarts Express. You can also visit the Natural History Center, hike around the Glencoe National Nature Center, or visit the Glencoe Folk Museum.

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 Glencoe Better for Couples?

Dingle
Glencoe

With fun activities for couples, both Dingle and Glencoe make for a excellent 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.

Glencoe is a great peninsula if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, hiking, and stunning scenery will enjoy a visit to this beautiful area.


Is Dingle or Glencoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dingle
Glencoe

Dingle is well known for backpackers. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dingle is a very popular peninsula for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Glencoe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It can be challenging to reach without a car and the surrounding countryside also requires a vehicle. There is some great camping available in the area.

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

Dingle
Glencoe

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dingle and Glencoe.

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 Glencoe. There are local buses, but it's much easier to make the most of your visit if you have a vehicle.

Is Dingle or Glencoe a more walkable city?

Dingle
Glencoe

Dingle and Glencoe both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

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

Glencoe is generally not a very walkable peninsula. It's easier to fully experience the area if you have your own vehicle.


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

Should I spend more time in Glencoe or Dingle?

How long in Dingle or Glencoe?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dingle and Glencoe. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dingle than in Glencoe. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dingle, and 1-3 days is enough time in Glencoe.

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

Couples should spend more time in Dingle than Glencoe. 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 Glencoe 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 Glencoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dingle 2-5 
    Glencoe 1-3

One day in Dingle or Glencoe?

In Dingle, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This peninsula offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Glencoe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Dingle or Glencoe?

In Dingle, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dingle has to offer.

Glencoe 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 Dingle or Glencoe?

Dingle is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dingle has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glencoe. 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 Glencoe?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dingle. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Dingle. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the picturesque destination of Glencoe. This village 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 United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Glencoe 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 Glencoe is €137. 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 Glencoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dingle 68
    Glencoe 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dingle 136
    Glencoe 138
Compare Hotels in Dingle and Glencoe

Looking for a hotel in Dingle or Glencoe? 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 Glencoe


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dingle 17
    Glencoe 43

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 Glencoe?

Prices for flights to both Glencoe 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
    Glencoe 38

Typical Food Prices in Glencoe

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Glencoe:


  • Lunch for 2
    54
  • Lunch for 2
    27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dingle 9.51
    Glencoe 34

Tours and Activities in Dingle

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

  • Boat Tour of Dingle Peninsula: $14
  • Dingle Peninsula Virtual Tour: $16
  • Dingle Bay Cliff Tour: $21
  • 2-hour Guided Mini Eco Tour at Dingle, Ireland: $49
  • Morning Tasting and Sightseeing Guided Tour in Dingle Ireland: $55
  • Self-Guided eBike Tour: $59
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Drive Group Tour: $76
  • Blasket Eco Tour.: $82
  • Dingle Dolphin Blasket Adventures: $84
  • Dingle Boat Tours Wildlife RIB Adventure: $87
  • Blasket Island Sea Life Rib Tour,: $93
  • Wildlife Tour: $98

Tours and Activities in Glencoe

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

  • Private Walking Tour in Fort William Town Centre : $13
  • Seal Island Cruise Tour: $46
  • Evening Cruise in Scotland: $46
  • From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glenoce & The Highlands Day Tour: $61
  • Loch Linnhe Rib Adventures in Aurora: $64
  • From Edinburgh: Magical Highlands Tour with Hogwarts Express: $219

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dingle 16
    Glencoe 7.91


When comparing the travel costs between Dingle and Glencoe, we can see that Glencoe 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 Glencoe Expensive?.