A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Killarney for Attractions, Backpackers, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Edinburgh or Killarney?

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 Killarney 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 ancient, charming, and character-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Killarney

Killarney is a peaceful, charming, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Edinburgh and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Killarney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Killarney are popular destinations, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Killarney attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Killarney and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle. Killarney is famous for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

How is Edinburgh different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Edinburgh that are not to be missed. 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.

Killarney offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for theatre. However, Killarney is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Killarney is not a theatre destination.

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

Killarney is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find great local fish and chips shops as well as locally caught seafood and regional produce. There are cafes and other independent restaurants that provide a local taste of the area.

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 Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is well known for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Killarney doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney Better for Music?

Edinburgh is terrific for live music. However, Killarney is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is a world class music destination. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Killarney is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is terrific for its historic old town. However, Killarney 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.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Killarney is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Killarney. You'll find many great hiking trails both in and around Killarney National Park. The town is also the starting and ending point for the 200 km Kerry Way walking trail. Other hikes worth checking out in the area include the Knockreer Circular Walk, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road Walk.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Killarney?

Edinburgh is well known for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Edinburgh is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Killarney are great 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.

Killarney is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Killarney are great 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 Killarney frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Edinburgh is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Killarney. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney Better for Students?

Edinburgh is well known for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Killarney is not popular with students.

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

Edinburgh is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.

Is Edinburgh or Killarney a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is terrific for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Killarney is not a very walkable city. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

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

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Killarney?

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

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

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 town of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Killarney?

You'll find live music and shopping around the character-filled 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 charming destination of Killarney. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Killarney?

You'll find shopping and museums around the character-filled 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 charming town of Killarney. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Killarney?

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.

Killarney is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Edinburgh and Killarney, we can see that Killarney is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Killarney?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and Killarney, 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 Killarney?

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 Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

In July, Edinburgh is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 14°C (58°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Edinburgh often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Killarney. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Killarney in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Killarney. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Edinburgh is cooler than Killarney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Edinburgh usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Killarney. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Killarney in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Killarney. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Edinburgh. In the winter, Edinburgh is much colder than Killarney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Edinburgh in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Killarney averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Killarney. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Killarney in the Spring?

Both Killarney and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 7°C (45°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Killarney during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Killarney. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Killarney and Edinburgh