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

Should you visit Glasgow or Kilkenny?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Kilkenny, 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a active, ancient, and medieval town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Glasgow and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or Kilkenny?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Glasgow. Although Glasgow and Kilkenny are both popular with visitors, Glasgow has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Glasgow is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Kilkenny is known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Glasgow is popular for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also home to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Kilkenny is popular for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Glasgow different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Kilkenny and Glasgow.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Glasgow can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kilkenny. 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 Glasgow or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kilkenny is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Kilkenny has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Glasgow or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

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

Glasgow is a must-see party destination. 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.

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 Glasgow or Kilkenny Better for Music?

Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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.

Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Is Glasgow or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Kilkenny is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

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.

Many visitors go to Glasgow to see the historical old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Kilkenny?

If you're looking to go shopping, Glasgow and Kilkenny both offer plenty of good spots.

Glasgow has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Kilkenny is a great destination for shopping. 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 Glasgow or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Kilkenny is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kilkenny. 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.

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Glasgow or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

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

Kilkenny is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

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 Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Glasgow and Kilkenny are good places to visit.

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

Kilkenny is a good city to visit for backpackers. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Glasgow or Kilkenny Better for Students?

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

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

Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Glasgow can get you to some places easily. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

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

Is Glasgow or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Glasgow and Kilkenny are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Kilkenny?

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

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

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

One day in Glasgow or Kilkenny?

The city of Glasgow offers museums and nightlife. 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.

In Kilkenny, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Glasgow or Kilkenny?

Glasgow 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Glasgow, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Kilkenny, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Kilkenny has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Kilkenny?

Glasgow is a popular choice for travelers. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Kilkenny?

Glasgow is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kilkenny. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kilkenny. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, 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 Glasgow and Kilkenny, we can see that Glasgow 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 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 Kilkenny.

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

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Kilkenny?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow or Kilkenny in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Kilkenny. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Glasgow is generally around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 15°C (59°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the summer, Glasgow often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in July than Kilkenny. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

Glasgow is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the autumn. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Kilkenny during autumn. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Glasgow. In October, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Glasgow or Kilkenny in the Winter?

Both Kilkenny and Glasgow during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Glasgow in the winter. In the winter, Glasgow is much colder than Kilkenny. Typically, the winter temperatures in Glasgow in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Kilkenny. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets more rain in January than Kilkenny. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Glasgow is generally cooler than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 7°C (45°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Glasgow usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny during spring. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Glasgow