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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny 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 vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a medieval, fascinating, and active town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Edinburgh than Kilkenny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Kilkenny is more popular for its food. Edinburgh is more touristy than Kilkenny and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Edinburgh different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Kilkenny can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Is Edinburgh or Kilkenny Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Kilkenny is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Kilkenny is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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.

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 Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Edinburgh know how to have a good time. 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.

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 Edinburgh or Kilkenny Better for Music?

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

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Edinburgh In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is terrific for its old town. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Many visitors go to Kilkenny to see the historical old town. 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 Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

Edinburgh is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Edinburgh is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Kilkenny has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Edinburgh or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Kilkenny are superb to visit with kids.

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

Kilkenny is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Edinburgh or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Kilkenny are superb 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 Kilkenny frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Edinburgh or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is terrific for backpackers. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Edinburgh. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Edinburgh or Kilkenny Better for Students?

Edinburgh is a great destination for students. However, Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Edinburgh and Kilkenny.

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

You'll find some public transit in Kilkenny, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses through town.

Is Edinburgh or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

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

Families should spend more time in Edinburgh than Kilkenny. 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 Kilkenny. 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 Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny?

The beautiful city of Edinburgh offers theater 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Kilkenny. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kilkenny has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Kilkenny. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

Edinburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edinburgh, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active town of Kilkenny. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

Edinburgh 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 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.

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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Edinburgh and Kilkenny, we can see that Edinburgh 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 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 Kilkenny.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the summer, Edinburgh often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Kilkenny. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Kilkenny. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Edinburgh is cooler than Kilkenny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Edinburgh usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Kilkenny. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. In January, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Kilkenny. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Kilkenny in the Spring?

Both Kilkenny and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty.

Edinburgh is cooler than Kilkenny in the spring. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Edinburgh