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

Should you visit Dublin or Rouen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or Rouen, 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.

Rouen

Rouen is a impressive, relaxing, and historical city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dublin and Rouen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Rouen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than Rouen. Dublin is bigger than Rouen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Rouen is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Dublin is more touristy than Rouen and is 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. Rouen is well known for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Dublin different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dublin is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen 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 Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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

Rouen 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 Rouen. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

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 Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Dublin just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Dublin or Rouen Better for Music?

Dublin is notable for its live music scene. However, Rouen is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Rouen is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

Dublin is notable for its old town. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Rouen?

Dublin is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Dublin or Rouen Better for Families?

Dublin is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Dublin or Rouen Better for Couples?

Dublin and Rouen are both very good 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.

Rouen is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Dublin or Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is notable for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

Is Dublin or Rouen Better for Students?

Dublin is a popular place for students. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not popular with students.

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

Rouen is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Rouen can get you around easily. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to 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 Rouen a more walkable city?

Dublin is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Rouen?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Dublin or Rouen to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Dublin than Rouen 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 Rouen.

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

In Dublin, many people enjoy the live music and food that this friendly destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Rouen. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Dublin or Rouen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Rouen 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 Rouen?

Dublin is a fun place to experience. In Dublin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid-back destination of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Rouen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dublin and Rouen, we can see that Dublin is more expensive. And not only is Rouen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rouen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rouen 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 Rouen.

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

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Rouen?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Dublin and Rouen, 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Rouen. 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 Rouen for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dublin is around the same temperature as Rouen in the summer. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rouen this time of the year. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Rouen during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives less rain than Rouen. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dublin or Rouen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dublin as well as Rouen. Most visitors come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Rouen because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dublin is around the same temperature as Rouen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dublin in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Rouen averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Rouen. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 127 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Rouen. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Rouen in the Winter?

Both Rouen 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 Rouen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Rouen in the winter. In January, Dublin is generally a little warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 6°C (42°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Rouen during winter. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dublin usually receives more rain than Rouen. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dublin or Rouen in the Spring?

Both Rouen 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. Also, many travelers come to Rouen for the natural beauty.

Dublin is around the same temperature as Rouen in the spring. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Rouen. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 172 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Rouen. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rouen and Dublin