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

Should you visit Hamburg or Kilkenny?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Hamburg and Kilkenny can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant, historic, and energetic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Kilkenny?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hamburg. Although Hamburg and Kilkenny are both popular with visitors, Hamburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hamburg is more popular for its nightlife, music, and shopping, while Kilkenny is known for its food and historical sights. Hamburg is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. It is also home to St. Michael's Church. Kilkenny is popular for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Hamburg different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hamburg
Kilkenny

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Hamburg or Kilkenny.

Many visitors head to Hamburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous district is the port area, which has a number of cultural sights and a pedestrian trail. There are also many museums and architectural landmarks around town.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Kilkenny can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Hamburg or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Kilkenny is an experience not to be missed. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Hamburg. The city has a mix of cosmopolitan restaurants and traditional places where you can enjoy a classic German dish like currywurst or labskaus (a type of stew).

Is Hamburg or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Hamburg is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Hamburg know how to have a good time. The city is often overlooked, but it's nightlife scene is actually among the best. There are techno concerts, music festivals, and nightclubs that appeal to all personalities.

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 Hamburg or Kilkenny Better for Music?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Hamburg 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 Hamburg The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Kilkenny is not a live music destination.


Is Hamburg or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Kilkenny?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

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

Hamburg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

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 Hamburg or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Hamburg or Kilkenny.

Hamburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a surprising number of opportunities to see wildlife nearby including a zoo and a wildlife park just outside of town. The city also has great playgrounds that are fun for kids who need a break from sightseeing.

Kilkenny is a very family-friendly destination. 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.


Is Hamburg or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well known for couples. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Kilkenny frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Hamburg is a nice destination for couples. Romantic activities in town include taking a boat ride or harbor cruise or grabbing a cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

Is Hamburg or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Hamburg and Kilkenny are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hamburg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Hamburg or Kilkenny Better for Students?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Hamburg is very good for students. However, Kilkenny is not popular with students.

Hamburg is popular with students. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

Kilkenny is not popular with students.


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

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Hamburg 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 Hamburg can get you to some places easily. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

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

Is Hamburg or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Kilkenny

Hamburg and Kilkenny both are very good when exploring on foot.

Hamburg is a very walkable destination. Most tourist areas can easily 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 Hamburg Worth Visiting? and Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hamburg or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hamburg 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 Hamburg, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kilkenny.

Families should spend more time in Kilkenny than Hamburg. 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 Hamburg. 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 Hamburg 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 Hamburg.


  • How many days in Hamburg or Kilkenny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hamburg 1-3 
    Kilkenny 1-2

One day in Hamburg or Kilkenny?

The port city of Hamburg offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Hamburg or Kilkenny?

Hamburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hamburg, 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 Hamburg or Kilkenny?

Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music 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 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 Hamburg or Kilkenny?

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port 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 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Kilkenny or Hamburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hamburg is €117, while the average daily cost in Kilkenny is €88. 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 Hamburg and Kilkenny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Kilkenny 44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Kilkenny 88
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Kilkenny

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Kilkenny? 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 Hamburg


Hotels in Kilkenny


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: Hamburg Hotel Prices and Kilkenny Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Kilkenny 21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hamburg:


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Hamburg hotels to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $118
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $41
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $108
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $86
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $76
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $108
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $86
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $76
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $92
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg city: $585
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $235
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM): Private Transfer to Hamburg hotels: $176

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Kilkenny?

Prices for flights to both Kilkenny and Hamburg 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
    Hamburg 35
    Kilkenny 29
Typical Food Prices in Hamburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hamburg:


  • Pink Thai Soup Dinner and Spring Rolls
    15
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    5.00
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    6.00
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    15
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    4.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    6.00
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    3.50
  • Coffee and Donut
    4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hamburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hamburg.

  • St. Pauli kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $117
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $186
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $481
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hamburg 39
    Kilkenny 15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hamburg

Here are a few typical costs in Hamburg for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Tower at St. Michael's Church
    3.50

Tours and Activities in Hamburg

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Speicherstadt and HafenCity": $3.20
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Town and City Center": $3.20
  • Deutsche Hafen & St.Pauli Bezahl-Was-ihr-wollt Tour zu Fuß: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $3.21
  • Harbor&St. Pauli Pay-What-You-Want 2-Hour Walking Tour: $3.21
  • English Hamburg City Center Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.21
  • German Hamburg Historic City Center Pay-What-You-Want Tour: $3.21
  • English Harbor&St.Pauli Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • The Local Tour of Hamburg Historic Centre: $3.26
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in St. Pauli: $4.60

Tours and Activities in Kilkenny

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

  • Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.81
  • Historical Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Kilkenny city tour in German.: $13
  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour: $13
  • Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views: $16
  • Knight For Hire Tour: $16
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • The Witch Tour: $21
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • Smithwick's Beer Experience: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Kilkenny 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Hamburg

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

  • Night Pub Crawl through The Repperbahn: $21
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through the Reeperbahn: $34
  • Pub Crawl - Ultimate party pub crawl incl. One-hour drinks flat rate: $44
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $51
  • Bachelor(ette) Premium Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $513

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

Also in Kilkenny, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hamburg and Kilkenny, we can see that Hamburg 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 Hamburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hamburg 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 Hamburg Expensive? and Is Kilkenny Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Kilkenny?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg 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 Hamburg 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 Hamburg or Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

In July, Hamburg is generally around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hamburg. Hamburg usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Kilkenny 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Hamburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Hamburg is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Hamburg often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in October than Kilkenny. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Kilkenny 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hamburg. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than Kilkenny. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Kilkenny 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Kilkenny. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Hamburg is generally cooler than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Hamburg often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kilkenny. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Kilkenny 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Hamburg

Hamburg Kilkenny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)