A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Glasgow vs. Dingle for Nightlife, Attractions, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Glasgow or Dingle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Dingle, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a historic, high energy, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Dingle

Dingle is a picturesque, serene, and natural peninsula. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Glasgow and Dingle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Glasgow or Dingle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Glasgow. Although Glasgow and Dingle are popular destinations, Glasgow has more sights and attractions for tourists. Glasgow is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Dingle attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dingle is more touristy than Glasgow and is popular for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs. Glasgow is famous for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also well known for Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

How is Glasgow different from Dingle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Glasgow or Dingle?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its historical sights.

Glasgow offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

While most people don't head to Dingle specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the natural beauty, but there are a couple of landmarks in the area including the Eask Tower, Gallarus Oratory, and the Blasket Centre.


Is the Food Better in Glasgow or Dingle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Glasgow
Dingle

Both Glasgow and Dingle offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Glasgow is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Dingle offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find great seafood throughout the peninsula. There's also traditional Irish food available including Irish stew or cabbage and bacon.

Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for nightlife.

The nightlife in Glasgow is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

Dingle doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area's not known for its nightlife but you can visit The Hillgrove, which is the peninsula's only nightclub. It's in a hotel and there is weekly entertainment.

Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Music?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Dingle is not a live music destination.

In Glasgow you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Dingle is not a live music destination.


Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Beaches?

Glasgow
Dingle

Dingle is great for the beach. However, Glasgow is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Dingle. It's not hard to find a quiet beach with scenic views and a serene setting. Some of the best beaches in the area include Coumeenole, Brandon Bay, and Ventry.

Glasgow is not a beach destination.

Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for its Old Town?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Glasgow offers a nice historic old town area. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Hiking?

Glasgow
Dingle

Dingle is great for hiking. However, Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Dingle for the hiking trails. There are a variety of walking paths and hiking trails that take you through the coastal setting, rolling mountains, and remote nature. Some of the best trails in the area include the long distance hiking trail the Dingle Way, Mount Brandon, and Glenteenassig Forest Park.

Glasgow is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Dingle?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Glasgow to go shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Families?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow and Dingle are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Glasgow offers lots of family activities. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Dingle is a family-friendly place to visit. There are coastal walks and beaches that are perfect for kids. You can also visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, do a dolphin tour, or enjoy some watersports. Horseback riding and Sandy Feet Farm are both fun as well.

Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Couples?

Glasgow
Dingle

Dingle is great for couples. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Dingle is a great peninsula if you're traveling as a couple. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.

Glasgow is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.


Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Glasgow
Dingle

Dingle is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Dingle. There are a good number of hostels on the peninsula and there are interesting music festivals and other events that make this a good backpacker destination.

Glasgow is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Students?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow is a great destination for students. However, Dingle is not popular with students.

Glasgow is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Dingle is not popular with students.

Is Glasgow or Dingle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow is a great destination for its public transit. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Glasgow offers a very effecient public transportation network. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dingle. Bus Eireann offers buses daily to Tralee and then there are connections to other destinations.


Is Glasgow or Dingle a more walkable city?

Glasgow
Dingle

Glasgow is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its walkability.

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

Dingle is generally not a very walkable city. If you have enough time, there are countless walking trails throughout the peninsula.

For even more information, also check out Is Glasgow Worth Visiting? and Is Dingle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dingle or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Dingle?

In either Glasgow or Dingle, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dingle than Glasgow because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glasgow, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dingle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glasgow than Dingle 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 Glasgow.


  • How many days in Glasgow or Dingle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Glasgow 2-3 
    Dingle 2-5

One day in Glasgow or Dingle?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Glasgow. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Dingle, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This peninsula offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Glasgow or Dingle?

Glasgow is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Dingle, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dingle has to offer.


Five days in Glasgow or Dingle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glasgow. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dingle is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dingle has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Dingle?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural destination of Glasgow. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dingle. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Dingle. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Dingle or Glasgow?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Glasgow is £144, while the average daily cost in Dingle is £103. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Glasgow and Dingle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Glasgow £74
    Dingle £58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Glasgow £148
    Dingle £116
Compare Hotels in Glasgow and Dingle

Looking for a hotel in Glasgow or Dingle? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Glasgow


Hotels in Dingle


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Glasgow Hotel Prices and Dingle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Glasgow £27
    Dingle £15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Glasgow

Also for Glasgow, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport and Glasgow Centre Private Transfer to Oban: $312
  • Departure Private Transfer Glasgow City to Glasgow GLA Airport by Business Car: $93
  • Departure Private Transfer Glasgow City to Glasgow GLA Airport by Luxury Car: $139
  • Departure Private Transfers: Glasgow City to Glasgow Airport GLA in Business Car: $98
  • Executive transfer Glasgow/Edinburgh: $275
  • From Private Day Trip to Edinburgh with Transfers: $834
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Edinburgh: $213
  • Glasgow Airport Transfer: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Van: $145
  • Glasgow Airport Transfers: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Car: $169
  • Glasgow Airport to Lecht Ski Resort - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $153
  • Glasgow Private Transfer from Glasgow city centre to Glasgow (GLA) Airport: $64
  • Glasgow city to Glasgow Airport -Luxury Transfer Chauffeured : $108

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dingle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dingle:

  • Dingle To Kerry Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Glasgow or Dingle?

Prices for flights to both Dingle and Glasgow change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Glasgow £45
    Dingle £35
Typical Food Prices in Glasgow

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Glasgow:


  • Dessert at Farmer's Market
    £1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Glasgow Walking Food Tour with EatWalk Tours: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Glasgow £22
    Dingle £8.14
Typical Entertainment Prices in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Luss Highland Games Entrance Fee (for 2)
    £12
  • Two Bike Rental
    £34

Tours and Activities in Glasgow

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Glasgow.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Glasgow Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Glasgow Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Historical Walking Tour: $15
  • City Center Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Glasgow City Centre Daily Walking Tour: 10:30am, 2pm & 5pm: $15
  • Street Art Guided Walking Tour: $17
  • Scottish Football Museum and Hampden Park Stadium Tour: $19

Tours and Activities in Dingle

Here are a few actual costs in Dingle for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2-hour Guided Mini Eco Tour at Dingle, Ireland: $49
  • 3 Hour Slea Head Drive Tour - Personal Chauffeur Guided Tour: $283
  • Blasket Eco Tour.: $82
  • Blasket Island Sea Life Rib Tour,: $93
  • Boat Tour of Dingle Peninsula: $14
  • Dingle Bay Cliff Tour: $21
  • Dingle Boat Tours Wildlife RIB Adventure: $87
  • Dingle Dolphin Blasket Adventures: $84
  • Dingle Peninsula Guided Walking Tour: $174
  • Dingle Peninsula Virtual Tour: $16
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Drive Group Tour: $76
  • Dingle Tasting Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Glasgow £15
    Dingle £13
Typical Alcohol Prices in Glasgow

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Glasgow:


  • Bottle of Wine
    £12
  • Ciders at Kilted Skirlie
    £3.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Glasgow

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Glasgow:

  • Clydeside Distillery Tour and Whisky Tasting: $23
  • Tennent’s Brewery Guided Tour and Free Pint: $24
  • Glengoyne Distillery Tour with Whisky & Chocolate: $37
  • Glasgow Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Sample Fine & Rare Whiskies at Glengoyne Distillery: $62
  • Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow : $70
  • The Malt Master Experience at Glengoyne Distillery: $112
  • Scottish Whisky Distillery Tour: $186
  • Guided Electric Bike Tour with a Distillery Visit: $187
  • Pints & Past: Glasgow Pub Tour: $456


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

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


Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Dingle?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 310 times larger than the population of Dingle. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow and Dingle, 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 Glasgow or Dingle?

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 Glasgow or Dingle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Dingle. Many visitors come to Glasgow in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Dingle for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Glasgow is around the same temperature as Dingle in the summer. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Dingle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Glasgow often gets more sunshine than Dingle. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 140 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in July than Dingle. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Glasgow 15°C (59°F) 
    Dingle 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Dingle in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Glasgow is cooler than Dingle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Glasgow in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Dingle averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Dingle during autumn. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dingle. It's quite rainy in Glasgow. In October, Glasgow usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dingle. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Glasgow 10°C (49°F) 
    Dingle 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Dingle in the Winter?

Both Dingle and Glasgow during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dingle this time of year.

The weather in Glasgow can be very cold. In January, Glasgow is generally much colder than Dingle. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 3°C (38°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Dingle. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 44 hours of full sun.

Dingle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Dingle. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Glasgow 3°C (38°F) 
    Dingle 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Dingle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Dingle. The activities around the city are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dingle for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Dingle during spring. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Glasgow usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dingle. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Glasgow 7°C (45°F) 
    Dingle 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dingle and Glasgow

Glasgow Dingle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)