A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dublin vs. La Rochelle for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Dublin or La Rochelle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or La Rochelle, 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 laid-back, friendly, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a charming, peaceful, and relaxing coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dublin and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or La Rochelle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than La Rochelle. Dublin is bigger than La Rochelle, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while La Rochelle is more popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Dublin is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse. La Rochelle is well known for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting.

How is Dublin different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Dublin and La Rochelle.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dublin can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Rochelle. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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

La Rochelle is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, La Rochelle is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

Dublin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for Music?

Dublin is great for its live music scene. However, La Rochelle is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Dublin draws a good crowd. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

La Rochelle is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

La Rochelle is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Dublin is not a beach destination.

La Rochelle has a beach worth visiting. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Dublin is not a beach destination.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

La Rochelle is terrific for its old town. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

La Rochelle has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

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.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

La Rochelle is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

La Rochelle has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or La Rochelle?

Dublin is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its shopping areas.

Dublin is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to La Rochelle to go shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Dublin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Dublin is very family-friendly. 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

La Rochelle is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

La Rochelle has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

Dublin is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle Better for Students?

Dublin and La Rochelle are notable places to visit for students.

Dublin is popular with 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.

It's common for students to visit La Rochelle. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dublin and La Rochelle.

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

While La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Is Dublin or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Dublin is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its ease of walking around.

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

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or La Rochelle?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fun city of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dublin or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Dublin. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

La Rochelle 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 Dublin or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the fun city of Dublin. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Dublin. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

La Rochelle is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dublin or La Rochelle?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of La Rochelle. When comparing the sizes of Dublin and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 Dublin or La Rochelle in the Summer?

Both La Rochelle and Dublin during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dublin in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to La Rochelle for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dublin is cooler than La Rochelle in the summer. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In La Rochelle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Dublin often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets more rain in July than La Rochelle. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and La Rochelle. Most visitors come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Dublin is cooler than La Rochelle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dublin in October average around 11°C (52°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dublin usually receives around the same amount of rain as La Rochelle. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dublin or La Rochelle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dublin as well as La Rochelle. The winter months attract visitors to Dublin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

In January, Dublin is generally cooler than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 6°C (42°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Dublin often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets less rain in January than La Rochelle. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Dublin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm.

Dublin is cooler than La Rochelle in the spring. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during spring. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dublin usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Dublin