A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dublin vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Dublin or New York City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or New York City, 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 welcoming, fun, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Dublin and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City than Dublin. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. New York City is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dublin attracts visitors for its historical sights. New York City is more touristy than Dublin and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Dublin is famous for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness.

How is Dublin different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City 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 New York City?

New York City is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in New York City are among the most recognizable in the world. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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.

Is Dublin or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Dublin is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in New York City. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Dublin is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Dublin or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City 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, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Dublin or New York City has a better nightlife scene.

Dublin is a must-see party destination. 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.

New York City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Is Dublin or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is terrific for its live music scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in New York City Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Dublin has a thriving music scene. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Is Dublin or New York City Better for its Old Town?

Dublin is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, New York City does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dublin. 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.

New York City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or New York City?

New York City is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in New York City make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Dublin. 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.

Is Dublin or New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Dublin does not offer Christmas activities.

New York City is a world class destination for shoppers. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Dublin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Dublin or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Dublin does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City has plenty of Christmas markets during the holiday season. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Dublin does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Dublin or New York City Better for Families?

Dublin and New York City are both great destinations for the whole family.

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in New York City. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Dublin or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

New York City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin and New York City are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Is Dublin or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is terrific for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

New York City is a great destination for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. 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.

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

New York City is terrific for its public transit. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of New York City can take you anywhere. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

While Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Dublin or New York City a more walkable city?

Dublin and New York City both are world-class when exploring on foot.

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

New York City is a very easy city to get around on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

For even more information, also check out Is Dublin Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or New York City?

Both Dublin and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Dublin. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dublin, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Dublin 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 New York City.

One day in Dublin or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the welcoming destination of Dublin. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

New York City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dublin or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City 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 Dublin or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the laid-back destination of Dublin. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Dublin or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Dublin. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dublin and New York City, we can see that New York City 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 New York City 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City 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 New York City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dublin or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Dublin. When comparing the sizes of Dublin and New York City, 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 New York City?

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 New York City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dublin as well as New York City. Many travelers come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to New York City in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dublin is generally much colder than New York City. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 16°C (60°F), and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in New York City. Dublin usually gets less rain in July than New York City. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dublin in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Dublin is cooler than New York City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and New York City fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In October, Dublin usually receives less rain than New York City. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dublin or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City and Dublin during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to New York City because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in New York City can be very cold. In the winter, Dublin is much warmer than New York City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dublin in January average around 6°C (42°F), and New York City averages at about 31°F (-1°C).

Dublin usually gets less rain in January than New York City. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or New York City in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and New York City. The spring months attract visitors to Dublin because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

In April, Dublin is generally cooler than New York City. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 8°C (47°F), and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In April, Dublin usually receives less rain than New York City. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New York City and Dublin