A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dusseldorf vs. Kilkenny for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Dusseldorf and Kilkenny. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a cultural, vibrant, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf. Although Dusseldorf and Kilkenny are popular destinations, Dusseldorf has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dusseldorf is very popular for its big city activities, while Kilkenny attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Dusseldorf is famous for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also well known for Altstadt (the Old Town). Kilkenny is famous for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Dusseldorf different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kilkenny and Dusseldorf. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Kilkenny. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.


Is the Food Better in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Both Dusseldorf and Kilkenny offer high quality local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dusseldorf makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Kilkenny has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Is Dusseldorf or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

It's hard to distinguish whether Dusseldorf or Kilkenny has a better nightlife scene.

Dusseldorf has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

If you're looking for night time activities Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Is Dusseldorf or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Dusseldorf and Kilkenny.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.


Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kilkenny and Dusseldorf.

Dusseldorf is a great destination for shopping. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kilkenny. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Is Dusseldorf or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Both Dusseldorf and Kilkenny are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly place to visit. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kilkenny is very family-friendly. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

Is Dusseldorf or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Dusseldorf and Kilkenny both high quality destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Dusseldorf frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Kilkenny is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.


Is Dusseldorf or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Dusseldorf and Kilkenny are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Dusseldorf or Kilkenny Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Dusseldorf is terrific for its public transit. Also, Kilkenny 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 Dusseldorf can take you anywhere. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

While Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.

Is Dusseldorf or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Kilkenny

Dusseldorf and Kilkenny both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

Kilkenny is a very walkable city. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Dusseldorf Worth Visiting? and Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Dusseldorf than Kilkenny because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dusseldorf, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kilkenny.

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


  • How many days in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dusseldorf 2-3 
    Kilkenny 1-2

One day in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

The city of Dusseldorf offers food and shopping. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the fascinating town of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kilkenny, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

Dusseldorf is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kilkenny, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. 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.

Kilkenny is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Kilkenny or Dusseldorf?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Dusseldorf is €185, while the average daily cost in Kilkenny is €88. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Dusseldorf and Kilkenny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Kilkenny 44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Kilkenny 88
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Kilkenny

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf or Kilkenny? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Dusseldorf


Hotels in Kilkenny


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Dusseldorf Hotel Prices and Kilkenny Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Kilkenny 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73

Is it cheaper to fly into Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

Prices for flights to both Kilkenny and Dusseldorf change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Dusseldorf 76
    Kilkenny 29
Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Kilkenny 15

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

Here are a few actual costs in Dusseldorf for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Night watchman tour: $22
  • Guided Walking Tour in Dusseldorf: $22
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Düsseldorf in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Dusseldorf Old Town and Altbier Tour: $25
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44

Tours and Activities in Kilkenny

Here are a few actual costs in Kilkenny for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.81
  • Historical Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Kilkenny city tour in German.: $13
  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour: $13
  • Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views: $16
  • Knight For Hire Tour: $16
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • The Witch Tour: $21
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • Smithwick's Beer Experience: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Kilkenny 12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

Also in Kilkenny, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158


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

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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf and Kilkenny, 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 Dusseldorf or Kilkenny?

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 Dusseldorf or Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dusseldorf is a little warmer than Kilkenny. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dusseldorf in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 15°C (60°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Kilkenny 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Dusseldorf during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Dusseldorf is generally around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 12°C (53°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Dusseldorf often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in October than Kilkenny. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Kilkenny 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Kilkenny. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dusseldorf can be very cold during winter. Dusseldorf is much colder than Kilkenny in the winter. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Kilkenny 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Kilkenny. The spring months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

In the spring, Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dusseldorf in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Dusseldorf often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kilkenny. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Kilkenny 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Kilkenny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)


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