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

Should you visit Dublin or Pamplona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or Pamplona, 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dublin and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Pamplona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than Pamplona. Dublin is bigger than Pamplona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Pamplona is more popular for its food and hiking. Dublin is well known 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. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Dublin different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

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 Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party 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.

Pamplona has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Dublin or Pamplona Better for Music?

Dublin is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Dublin is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Dublin or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Pamplona?

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

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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Dublin or Pamplona Better for Families?

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

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.

Pamplona is a family-friendly city. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Dublin or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Dublin is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Dublin is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Dublin or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin and Pamplona are very good 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 Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Dublin or Pamplona Better for Students?

Dublin and Pamplona 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 Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Is Dublin or Pamplona 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 Pamplona.

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 Pamplona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Dublin or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Dublin is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Dublin or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Dublin than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dublin, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

Families should spend more time in Dublin than Pamplona. 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 Pamplona. 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 Pamplona 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 Pamplona?

The city of Dublin offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in Dublin or Pamplona?

Dublin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dublin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Pamplona 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 Pamplona?

Dublin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dublin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. 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 Pamplona?

Dublin is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of Pamplona. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Dublin and Pamplona, we can see that Dublin 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 Dublin Expensive? and Is Pamplona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Pamplona?

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

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Pamplona. Many visitors come to Dublin in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dublin is cooler than Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dublin or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dublin as well as Pamplona. Most visitors come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Dublin is cooler than Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dublin in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Pamplona. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Dublin usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Dublin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

In January, Dublin is generally much colder than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 6°C (42°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In January, Dublin usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dublin or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Dublin during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Dublin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city.

Dublin is cooler than Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Dublin often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dublin usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Dublin