A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Connemara for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Edinburgh or Connemara?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Connemara can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a character-filled, vibrant, and gothic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and theater.

Connemara

Connemara is a scenic, natural, and remote region. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and museums.

Edinburgh and Connemara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Connemara?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Connemara are both popular with visitors, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Connemara is known for its food, beaches, and hiking. Edinburgh is more touristy than Connemara and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Connemara is popular for its bog-filled landscape and its hidden coves.

How is Edinburgh different from Connemara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Edinburgh or Connemara?

Edinburgh is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Connemara is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Edinburgh on the map. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Connemara is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most people visit the region for the natural beauty, you will also find Kylemore Abbey, Ballynahinch Castle, and Clifden Castle nearby.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Connemara is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Connemara is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Edinburgh or Connemara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Connemara is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Connemara has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The area has been influenced by the improving food scene in nearby regions. You'll find everything from fine dining restaurants to food trucks that use local ingredients and recipes. The area has no shortage of seafood, shellfish, and even Connemara lamb.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Connemara is not a good region for nightlife.

Edinburgh offers plenty to do in the evening. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Connemara doesn't offer many options. You'll find some bars in the area but most people visit for the natural beauty, not the nightlife scene.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Music?

Edinburgh is terrific for its music scene. However, Connemara is not a live music destination.

In Edinburgh you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Connemara is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Beaches?

Connemara is a very popular place for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Connemara attract visitors from all over. You'll find wide stretches of sandy beach as well as hidden coves that offer a peaceful retreat. Some of the best beaches in the area include Dog’s Bay Beach, Trá an Dóilín, and Glassilaun Beach.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Connemara does not have a historic old town.

Edinburgh has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Connemara does not have a historic old town.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Hiking?

Connemara is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Around Connemara visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The landscape is considered to be some of the most beautiful in all of Ireland and there are many walks and hikes that let you experience it. Some of the best hikes are The Cong and Clonbur Forest Trail, the Claddaghduff Quay to Omey Island Walk, and Mount Gable Walk.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Connemara?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Connemara is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Connemara is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Families?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Connemara is not a good region for its kid-friendly activities.

Edinburgh is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Connemara is not always a place people visit with their families. There are plenty of places to explore outdoors such as Connemara National Park as well as the nearby beaches. You'll also find several playgrounds in the area.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Connemara are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Couples visit Connemara frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You'll find romantic hotels and beautiful walks through hidden coves and dramatic countryside. Couples will enjoy exploring castles and getting lost in the beauty.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is terrific for backpackers. However, Connemara is not a good region for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Connemara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in the area, you really need a car to explore the area in depth. This turns off a lot of backpackers.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Students?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for students. However, Connemara is not popular with students.

Edinburgh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Connemara is not popular with students.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Edinburgh is a popular place for its public transit. However, Connemara is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

Edinburgh has a few public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Public transit is quite limited in Connemara. There are a few buses in the area but you really need a private vehicle to get around to most places.

Is Edinburgh or Connemara a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Connemara is not a good region for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Edinburgh on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Connemara is not a very walkable city. You really need a vehicle to experience everything that the region has to offer.

For even more information, also check out Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Connemara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Connemara or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Connemara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Edinburgh and Connemara. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than in Connemara. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 2-3 days is enough time in Connemara.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Connemara 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Edinburgh or Connemara?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint city of Edinburgh. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and museums around the region of Connemara. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Connemara?

You'll find live music and shopping around the vibrant destination of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the breathtaking destination of Connemara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Connemara?

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant city of Edinburgh. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the remote region of Connemara. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Connemara?

Edinburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Connemara is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh or Connemara?

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 Edinburgh or Connemara in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Connemara. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Connemara in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Connemara. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Connemara averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Edinburgh often gets more sunshine than Connemara. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Connemara receives 142 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Connemara. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Connemara in the Autumn?

Both Connemara and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Connemara for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Connemara. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Connemara fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Connemara during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Connemara receives 96 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Connemara. In October, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Connemara. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Connemara in the Winter?

Both Connemara and Edinburgh during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Connemara because of the museums and the cuisine.

Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. Edinburgh is much colder than Connemara in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Connemara fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Connemara. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Connemara receives 59 hours of full sun.

Connemara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Connemara. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Connemara in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Connemara. The spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Connemara this time of year.

In the spring, Edinburgh is cooler than Connemara. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Connemara averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Connemara during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Connemara receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Connemara. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Connemara and Edinburgh