A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heidelberg vs. Killarney for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Heidelberg or Killarney?

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 Heidelberg and Killarney. 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a quaint, energetic, and lively town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Killarney

Killarney is a local, natural, and peaceful town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Heidelberg and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Killarney?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heidelberg than Killarney, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heidelberg is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Killarney is more popular for its museums, hiking, and small town charm. Heidelberg is well known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Also, Heidelberg is famous for The Heidelberg Castle. Killarney is well known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

How is Heidelberg different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Heidelberg or Killarney?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Killarney is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Killarney. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Heidelberg or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heidelberg
Killarney

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find great local fish and chips shops as well as locally caught seafood and regional produce. There are cafes and other independent restaurants that provide a local taste of the area.

Is Heidelberg or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Heidelberg is well known for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Heidelberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Killarney doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Is Heidelberg or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Heidelberg is terrific for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Heidelberg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Heidelberg or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Killarney is a great town for hiking. However, Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Killarney for the hiking trails. You'll find many great hiking trails both in and around Killarney National Park. The town is also the starting and ending point for the 200 km Kerry Way walking trail. Other hikes worth checking out in the area include the Knockreer Circular Walk, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road Walk.

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Killarney?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Heidelberg is a town with good options for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heidelberg or Killarney Better for Families?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Killarney is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Killarney. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.


Is Heidelberg or Killarney Better for Couples?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Heidelberg and Killarney both very good destinations for a couple.

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Killarney is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Is Heidelberg or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Heidelberg is well known for backpackers. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Plenty of backpackers visit Killarney. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.

Is Heidelberg or Killarney Better for Students?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Heidelberg is a town with good options for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

Heidelberg is popular with students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Killarney is not popular with students.


Is Heidelberg or Killarney Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Heidelberg is well known for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Heidelberg. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Public transit is mostly limited in Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.

Is Heidelberg or Killarney a more walkable city?

Heidelberg
Killarney

Heidelberg is well known for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable.

Killarney is not a very walkable town. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

For even more information, also check out Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heidelberg and Killarney. In our opinion, Heidelberg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Heidelberg than Killarney. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heidelberg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Killarney.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heidelberg than Killarney 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 Heidelberg.


  • How many days in Heidelberg or Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Heidelberg 1-3 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Heidelberg or Killarney?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint town of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heidelberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and food around the charming town of Killarney, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Heidelberg or Killarney?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the lively destination of Heidelberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and museums around the destination of Killarney, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Heidelberg or Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic town of Heidelberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Killarney, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Killarney?

Heidelberg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Killarney is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Heidelberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Heidelberg is €142, while the average daily cost in Killarney is €167. 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 Heidelberg and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heidelberg 93
    Killarney 102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heidelberg 186
    Killarney 204
Compare Hotels in Heidelberg and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Heidelberg or Killarney? 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 Heidelberg


Hotels in Killarney


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices and Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heidelberg 17
    Killarney 20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $104
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $346
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Heidelberg or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37
    Killarney 46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $596

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

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

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heidelberg 11
    Killarney 19

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.38
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.52
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.93
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.93
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.51
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.32
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park: $38
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Bus & Boat Tour: $63
  • Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour (Jaunting Cart Paid Separately) : $63
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • From Portmagee & Skellig Ring Full-Day Tour: $75
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach: $65
  • Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour: $59
  • Gap of Dunloe Day Tour and Boat Ride from Killarney: $44
  • Gap of Dunloe Tour ( Boat & Bus): $65
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney : $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heidelberg 17
    Killarney 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


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

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


Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Killarney?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg and Killarney, 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 Heidelberg or Killarney?

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 Heidelberg or Killarney in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Killarney. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heidelberg is a little warmer than Killarney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heidelberg in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Killarney averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heidelberg this time of the year. In the summer, Heidelberg often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Killarney. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Killarney in the Autumn?

Both Killarney and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

In October, Heidelberg is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 12°C (54°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Heidelberg usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during autumn. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. In October, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Killarney. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Killarney in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Heidelberg in the winter. Heidelberg is much colder than Killarney in the winter. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Killarney. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Heidelberg usually gets less rain in January than Killarney. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Killarney in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Killarney. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Killarney in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heidelberg is a little warmer than Killarney. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heidelberg in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Killarney averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Heidelberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney during spring. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Killarney. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Heidelberg

Heidelberg Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)