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

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

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 Kinsale. 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 vibrant, historic, and fun-filled city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a quaint, picturesque, and colorful seaside town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Dusseldorf and Kinsale: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf. Although Dusseldorf and Kinsale are popular destinations, Dusseldorf has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dusseldorf is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Kinsale attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kinsale is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is popular for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. 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).

How is Dusseldorf different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Both Dusseldorf and Kinsale have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Dusseldorf is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Kinsale offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the colorful old town, you can check out Charles Fort, James Fort, and Old Head Signal Tower. The town is filled with history and many unique landmarks that are worth exploring.


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

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Kinsale is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Kinsale, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

Dusseldorf has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Is Dusseldorf or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Dusseldorf is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Kinsale specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

Is Dusseldorf or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Kinsale is a seaside town with a few options for its beaches. However, Dusseldorf is not a beach destination.

Kinsale is a good spot to see the beach. You'll find a number of beaches within about 20 minutes of town. The closest is Kinsale Beach, which is about 3 kilometers from the center of town. For a more peaceful setting, head out of town and check out Sandycove Beach, Garrylucas Blue Flag Beach, and Coolmain Beach.

Dusseldorf is not a beach destination.


Is Dusseldorf or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Visitors enjoy the very good old town areas in both Dusseldorf and Kinsale.

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 Kinsale. The old town is filled with brightly colored houses, and it offers a unique setting that's different from many of Europe's more standard old towns.

Is Dusseldorf or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Kinsale is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dusseldorf is not a hiking destination.

Kinsale offers some nice hiking trails. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Dusseldorf is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kinsale 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 Kinsale. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.


Is Dusseldorf or Kinsale Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Dusseldorf is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Dusseldorf is very family-friendly. 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.

Kinsale is a family-friendly place to visit. If your kids need a break from the tourist circuit, there are a couple of playgrounds and outdoor centers around town. There's also one hour pony treks available at the Kinsale Equestrian Centre.

Is Dusseldorf or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Dusseldorf is great for its romantic activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for couples.

Dusseldorf is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Kinsale is a good city for couples to visit. From coastal walks to quaint streets, there are many picturesque places that a couple can explore. The town also has an impressive restaurant scene where couples can enjoy a great meal.

Is Dusseldorf or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Dusseldorf and Kinsale 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 Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.


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

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Dusseldorf is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Dusseldorf is top-notch. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.

Is Dusseldorf or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Kinsale

Dusseldorf is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its ease of walking around.

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

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable city. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Kinsale. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dusseldorf that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


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

One day in Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

In Dusseldorf, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kinsale might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kinsale, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

In Dusseldorf, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dusseldorf has to offer.

Even though Kinsale is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this seaside town.

Five days in Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Kinsale, a popular seaside 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 Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dusseldorf. 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.

Kinsale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.


Which place is cheaper, Kinsale 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 Kinsale is €129. 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 Kinsale in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Kinsale 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Kinsale 148
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Kinsale

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf or Kinsale? 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 Kinsale


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 Kinsale Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Kinsale 17

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

Prices for flights to both Kinsale 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
    Kinsale 46
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
    Kinsale 5.00

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

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

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $141
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Dusseldorf : Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $51

Tours and Activities in Kinsale

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kinsale.

  • Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour Cobh: $21
  • Visit 16 Sites Key Historical Sites And Experience Cobh Rebel Tours: $27
  • Cobh Evening Ghost Tour: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Kinsale 16
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 Kinsale

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

  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Cork: Blarney Castle & Jameson Distillery: $147


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

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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Kinsale?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf and Kinsale, 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 Kinsale?

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 Dusseldorf or Kinsale in the Summer?

Both Kinsale and Dusseldorf during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dusseldorf is a little warmer than Kinsale. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dusseldorf in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Kinsale averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Dusseldorf often gets more sunshine than Kinsale. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in July than Kinsale. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Kinsale 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Kinsale in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Kinsale. The autumn months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

In October, Dusseldorf is generally around the same temperature as Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 12°C (53°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives more sunshine than Kinsale during autumn. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Kinsale 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Kinsale in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Kinsale. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kinsale for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Dusseldorf in the winter. Dusseldorf is much colder than Kinsale in the winter. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Kinsale fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kinsale. Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in January than Kinsale. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Kinsale 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Kinsale in the Spring?

Both Kinsale and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kinsale during spring. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Kinsale 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Kinsale
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in)


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