A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dublin vs. Anchorage for Nightlife, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Dublin or Anchorage?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or Anchorage, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Dublin

Dublin is a friendly, welcoming, and fun city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a scenic, breathtaking, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Dublin and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dublin than Anchorage. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dublin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Anchorage attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Dublin is famous for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse. Anchorage is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Dublin different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dublin or Anchorage?

Dublin is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.

Is the Food Better in Dublin or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Dublin and Anchorage.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Anchorage is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Dublin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for Music?

Dublin is a well-known place for live music. However, Anchorage is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Dublin is very popular with diverse venues. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Anchorage is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Dublin is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Anchorage?

Dublin is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Dublin is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for Families?

Dublin is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Dublin is a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Anchorage is a family-friendly city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Dublin and Anchorage are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Anchorage is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Plenty of backpackers visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for Students?

Dublin is a city with good options for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Dublin is a good city to visit for students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

Is Dublin or Anchorage Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dublin is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Dublin has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Dublin or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Dublin is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Dublin on foot. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Dublin Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Anchorage?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than Anchorage 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 Dublin.

One day in Dublin or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Dublin. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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

A weekend in Dublin or Anchorage?

You'll find live music and food around the welcoming destination of Dublin. 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.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, 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 Dublin or Anchorage?

You'll find food and shopping around the laid-back city of Dublin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Don't miss the hiking, 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 Dublin or Anchorage?

Dublin 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 shopping and museums when visiting the breathtaking destination of Anchorage. This city 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dublin and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. And not only is Dublin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dublin is in Europe and Anchorage is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Dublin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dublin 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 Anchorage would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Anchorage than you might in Dublin.

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

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Anchorage?

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

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 Dublin or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Anchorage. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dublin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dublin is generally around the same temperature as Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 16°C (60°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dublin or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dublin as well as Anchorage. Many travelers come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. Dublin is much warmer than Anchorage in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dublin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Dublin is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dublin in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Anchorage averages at about 15°F (-9°C).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dublin usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dublin or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Dublin during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dublin for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In April, Dublin is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 8°C (47°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Dublin