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

Should you visit Ghent or Kilkenny?

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 Ghent and Kilkenny. 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a ancient, medieval, and fascinating town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ghent and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Kilkenny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ghent. Although Ghent and Kilkenny are popular destinations, Ghent has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also well known for The Fortress of Gravensteen. Kilkenny is famous for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Ghent different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ghent or Kilkenny?

Both Ghent and Kilkenny have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

Kilkenny offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 the Food Better in Ghent or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Ghent and Kilkenny both to be high quality destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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.

Is Ghent or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Ghent is a must-see party destination. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Ghent and Kilkenny.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kilkenny. 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 Ghent or Kilkenny?

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

Ghent is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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 Ghent or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Kilkenny is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Kilkenny is 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Ghent or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Ghent and Kilkenny both high quality destinations for a couple.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Kilkenny makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Ghent or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ghent and Kilkenny are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Ghent or Kilkenny Better for Students?

Ghent is terrific for students. However, Kilkenny is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

Ghent is terrific for its public transit. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Ghent can take you anywhere. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

While Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.

Is Ghent or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Ghent and Kilkenny both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ghent or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ghent than Kilkenny because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ghent, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kilkenny.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ghent 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 Ghent.

One day in Ghent or Kilkenny?

The beautiful city of Ghent offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kilkenny, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this medieval destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Ghent or Kilkenny?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kilkenny. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Ghent or Kilkenny?

Ghent is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kilkenny is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kilkenny. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Ghent or Kilkenny?

Ghent is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the active destination of Kilkenny. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, 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 Ghent and Kilkenny, we can see that Ghent 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 Ghent would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ghent 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 Ghent Expensive? and Is Kilkenny Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Kilkenny?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent or Kilkenny?

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 Ghent or Kilkenny in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ghent is a little warmer than Kilkenny. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ghent in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 15°C (60°F).

In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ghent usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ghent or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Kilkenny. Many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Ghent is generally a little warmer than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 12°C (54°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kilkenny. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Kilkenny in the Winter?

Both Kilkenny and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ghent can be very cold during winter. Ghent is much colder than Kilkenny in the winter. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ghent or Kilkenny in the Spring?

Both Kilkenny and Ghent during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

In the spring, Ghent is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ghent in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in April than Kilkenny. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Ghent