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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Kinsale?

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 Kinsale 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. 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. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a charming, quaint, and picturesque seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh and Kinsale: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Kinsale?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Edinburgh than Kinsale, 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, and quaint atmosphere, while Kinsale is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Kinsale and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Kinsale is well known for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks.

How is Edinburgh different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kinsale. 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 Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is great for its theatre productions. However, Kinsale 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.

Kinsale is not a theatre destination.

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

Kinsale is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Kinsale have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

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 Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is great for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Edinburgh for the nightlife scene. 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.

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 Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Kinsale is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Kinsale is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Kinsale is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Kinsale. 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its historic old town charm.

Edinburgh offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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 Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Kinsale is a seaside town with good options for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Kinsale. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Kinsale?

Edinburgh is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its shopping areas.

Edinburgh is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to go shopping. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.

Is Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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, 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.

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 Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for Couples?

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

Edinburgh is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

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 Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Edinburgh is extremely popular 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.

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

Is Edinburgh or Kinsale Better for Students?

Edinburgh is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale 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.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

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

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

While Edinburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

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

Is Edinburgh or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit 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.

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

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Kinsale Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Kinsale?

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

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

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. 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.

Even though Kinsale is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kinsale has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Kinsale?

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. 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 Edinburgh has to offer.

Kinsale is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. 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 seaside town has to offer. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Kinsale?

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edinburgh has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Kinsale is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. 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 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 Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Kinsale?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Kinsale?

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 Edinburgh or Kinsale in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Kinsale. The summer months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Kinsale in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Kinsale fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kinsale. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Kinsale in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Kinsale. 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 Kinsale for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Edinburgh is cooler than Kinsale. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Kinsale averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kinsale. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in October than Kinsale. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Kinsale in the Winter?

Both Kinsale and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Edinburgh. In January, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kinsale. In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Kinsale in the Spring?

Both Kinsale and Edinburgh during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kinsale for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Edinburgh is cooler than Kinsale in the spring. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Kinsale fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Kinsale. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Edinburgh