A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Dublin for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hong Kong or Dublin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Dublin, 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.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a diverse , compact, and dense city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dublin

Dublin is a welcoming, fun, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Hong Kong and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Dublin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Dublin. Hong Kong is bigger than Dublin, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dublin is more popular for its nightlife, music, and historical sights. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak. Dublin is well known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness.

How is Hong Kong different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Dublin?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Hong Kong and Dublin.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

Is the Food Better in Hong Kong or Dublin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Dublin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Dublin while you're in town. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong is a great destination for the beache. However, Dublin is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hong Kong. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Dublin is not a beach destination.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Dublin is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Dublin to see the historical old town. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Dublin?

Hong Kong is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Hong Kong make it a world-class shopping destination. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Families?

Hong Kong is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dublin. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Couples?

Hong Kong is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Dublin is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Students?

Dublin is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hong Kong is terrific for its public transit. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Hong Kong can take you anywhere. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

While Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Hong Kong or Dublin a more walkable city?

Hong Kong and Dublin are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Getting around Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Dublin?

In either Hong Kong or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than Dublin because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dublin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than Hong Kong 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 Dublin.

One day in Hong Kong or Dublin?

Hong Kong is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Dublin. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hong Kong or Dublin?

Hong Kong is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find live music and food around the fun destination of Dublin. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hong Kong. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the welcoming city of Dublin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Hong Kong or Dublin?

Hong Kong is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Dublin 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Hong Kong and Dublin, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Hong Kong is in Asia and Dublin is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Dublin?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dublin. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Dublin, 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.