A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dublin vs. Orlando for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Dublin or Orlando?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or Orlando, 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Dublin and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Orlando?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dublin than Orlando. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dublin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while Orlando attracts visitors for its theatre productions, food, and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Dublin and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. 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.

How is Dublin different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dublin is great for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Dublin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Dublin is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Dublin is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is renowned for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Dublin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for Music?

Dublin is great for live music. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is terrific for its resorts. However, Dublin is not a resort destination.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Dublin is not a resort destination.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for its Old Town?

Dublin is great for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Orlando?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Orlando and Dublin.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 explore the shopping areas in Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for Christmas?

Orlando is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Dublin does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando is a world class destination for shoppers. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Dublin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dublin. 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.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for Couples?

Dublin is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Dublin or Orlando Better for Students?

Dublin and Orlando are nice 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 Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

Dublin is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Dublin or Orlando a more walkable city?

Dublin is renowned for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Orlando?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Dublin than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando?

In Dublin, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city 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 theater and nightlife when visiting the destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dublin or Orlando?

In Dublin, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer.

Orlando 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 Dublin or Orlando?

Dublin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Dublin. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the family-friendly destination of Orlando. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Orlando?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Dublin and Orlando, 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 Orlando?

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 Orlando in the Summer?

Both Orlando 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 Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Dublin is generally much colder than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 16°C (60°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dublin usually gets less rain in July than Orlando. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Orlando in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Orlando. 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 Orlando because of the shopping scene.

Dublin is much colder than Orlando in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Dublin usually receives less rain than Orlando. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dublin or Orlando in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Dublin is much colder than Orlando. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dublin in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Orlando averages at about 59°F (15°C).

Dublin usually gets more rain in January than Orlando. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Orlando in the Spring?

Both Orlando 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.

In April, Dublin is generally much colder than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 8°C (47°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In April, Dublin usually receives less rain than Orlando. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Dublin