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

Should you visit Glasgow or Kinsale?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Kinsale, 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 high energy, friendly, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a picturesque, colorful, and charming seaside town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Glasgow and Kinsale: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or Kinsale?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Glasgow. Although Glasgow and Kinsale are both popular with visitors, Glasgow has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Glasgow is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Kinsale is known for its food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kinsale is more touristy than Glasgow and is known for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. 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.

How is Glasgow different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Glasgow is great for its historical sights. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Glasgow. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

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

Kinsale is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Kinsale is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

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 Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

Glasgow has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

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 Glasgow or Kinsale Better for Music?

Glasgow 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 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.

Kinsale is not a live music destination.

Is Glasgow or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Kinsale is adequate for the beach. However, Glasgow is not a beach destination.

The beach in Kinsale is worth checking out. 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.

Glasgow is not a beach destination.

Is Glasgow or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Kinsale 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 Kinsale to see the historical old town. 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.

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 Glasgow or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Kinsale is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Kinsale has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Kinsale?

If you're looking to go shopping, Glasgow and Kinsale 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.

Kinsale is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.

Is Glasgow or Kinsale Better for Families?

Glasgow and Kinsale are both good 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.

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 Glasgow or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Glasgow and Kinsale are both good to visit as a couple.

Glasgow is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Kinsale is a nice destination for couples. 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 Glasgow or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Glasgow and Kinsale 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.

Kinsale is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.

Is Glasgow or Kinsale Better for Students?

Glasgow is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Glasgow. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

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

Glasgow is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

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

Is Glasgow or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Glasgow is great 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.

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

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 Glasgow Worth Visiting? and Is Kinsale Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Kinsale?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Glasgow than Kinsale. 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 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 Glasgow.

One day in Glasgow or Kinsale?

In Glasgow, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kinsale is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This seaside 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 Kinsale?

In Glasgow, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Glasgow has to offer.

Kinsale might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kinsale has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Kinsale?

Glasgow is a great place to explore. 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.

Kinsale 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 Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glasgow. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Glasgow. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kinsale. Since Kinsale is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Kinsale?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow or Kinsale in the Summer?

Both Kinsale and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kinsale for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Glasgow is generally around the same temperature as Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 15°C (59°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during summer. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Glasgow or Kinsale in the Autumn?

Both Kinsale and Glasgow during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Glasgow is cooler than Kinsale in the autumn. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Kinsale fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets more rain in October than Kinsale. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Kinsale in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Kinsale. Many visitors come to Glasgow in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kinsale for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Glasgow can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Glasgow is much colder than Kinsale. Typically, the winter temperatures in Glasgow in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Kinsale averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during winter. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kinsale receives a lot of rain in the winter. Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Glasgow or Kinsale in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Kinsale. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in April than Kinsale. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Glasgow