A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dover vs. Killarney for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

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

Dover

Dover is a rustic, stunning, and natural town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Killarney

Killarney is a natural, peaceful, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Dover and Killarney: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Dover or Killarney?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Killarney than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Killarney is better known for its small town charm, while Dover is more popular for its impressive beauty. Killarney is more touristy than Dover and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Also, Killarney is famous for Killarney National Park. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Dover different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dover
Killarney

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Dover or Killarney.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dover. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Killarney is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Dover or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dover
Killarney

Foodies will find both Dover and Killarney both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dover area. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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 Dover or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Dover
Killarney

Both Dover and Killarney are respectable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Dover specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Killarney. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Is Dover or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Dover
Killarney

You'll find superb hiking in both Dover and Killarney.

Dover is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

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.


Is Dover or Killarney Better for Families?

Dover
Killarney

Killarney is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Killarney is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Dover is a family-friendly town. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Is Dover or Killarney Better for Couples?

Dover
Killarney

Both Dover and Killarney are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Dover is a very popular place to visit for couples. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Killarney makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Dover or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover
Killarney

Both Dover and Killarney are notable destinations for backpackers.

Dover is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

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

Dover
Killarney

Both Dover and Killarney offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

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

Is Dover or Killarney a more walkable city?

Dover
Killarney

Dover is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

Killarney is not a very walkable 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 Dover Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Dover?

How long in Dover or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dover and Killarney. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dover than in Killarney. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 2-3 days is enough time in Killarney.

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

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


  • How many days in Dover or Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dover 2-4 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Dover or Killarney?

You'll find food and museums around the town of Dover. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Killarney, many people enjoy the food and museums that this natural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Dover or Killarney?

You'll find museums and food around the iconic destination of Dover. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dover or Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the breathtaking town of Dover. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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.

Killarney is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dover or Killarney?

Dover is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and food around the peaceful destination of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Dover?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dover is £124, 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 Dover and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dover £62
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dover £124
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Dover and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Dover 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 Dover


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: Dover Hotel Prices and Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dover £39
    Killarney £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $254
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Dover or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Dover 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
    Dover £38
    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.
    Dover £20
    Killarney £16

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Pilgrims and Pit Stops: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Canterbury: $5.99
  • The Condensed Canterbury Tour: $13
  • The Canterbury Classic Tour: $16
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 14.00 Tour: $19
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $19
  • Small-Group City Running Tour in Canterbury: $27
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury: $153
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Killarney Hop - On, Hop - Off Tour: $16
  • Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall: $22
  • Guided Boat Tour to Innisfallen Island: $22
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on theTralee to Fenit Greenway: $27
  • Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney - Scenic Tour (Minimum 4 People - 1 way).: $33
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney : $36
  • Killarney Carriage Tours National Park and Lakes: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dover £7.71
    Killarney £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $178

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 Dover 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 Dover Expensive? and Is Killarney Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Dover or Killarney?

Dover has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Dover 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 Dover or Killarney?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dover or Killarney in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Killarney. Many travelers come to Dover for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Dover, it's very sunny this time of the year. Dover usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during summer. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dover usually receives less rain than Killarney. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dover 17°C (63°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Dover or Killarney in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dover as well as Killarney. Many visitors come to Dover in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Dover often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. Dover usually gets less rain in October than Killarney. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dover 12°C (54°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Dover or Killarney in the Winter?

Both Killarney and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Dover for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine.

Dover can be very cold during winter. Dover is much colder than Killarney in the winter. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during winter. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. In January, Dover usually receives less rain than Killarney. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dover 4°C (40°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Dover or Killarney in the Spring?

Both Killarney and Dover during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Dover because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

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

In the spring, Dover often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in April than Killarney. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dover 9°C (47°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Dover

Dover Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)