A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Howth vs. Cairngorms National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

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

Should I visit Howth or Cairngorms National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Howth

Howth is a coastal, beautiful, and picturesque fishing village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and museums.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a tranquil, remote, and beautiful national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Howth and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Howth. Although Howth and Cairngorms National Park are both popular with visitors, Howth has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Howth is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and small town charm, while Cairngorms National Park is known for its impressive beauty. Howth is popular for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. It is also home to The Baily Lighthouse. Cairngorms National Park is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

How is Howth different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

Howth is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park 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 Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Howth or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Howth and Cairngorms National Park can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Howth. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Cairngorms National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Howth or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Howth is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Howth. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Howth or Cairngorms National Park Better for Beaches?

Howth is a very popular place for the beach. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a beach destination.

Howth is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Cairngorms National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Howth or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Howth and Cairngorms National Park both have great trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Many visitors go to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Is Howth or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Howth or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Cairngorms National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Howth is a good fishing village for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Howth or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairngorms National Park is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.

Is Howth or Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Howth is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Howth has some public transit options. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Howth or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Howth is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Howth is a very walkable destination. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Howth Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Howth?

How long in Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Howth or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Howth because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Howth, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Howth than Cairngorms National Park 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 Howth.

One day in Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

With museums and food around the scenic fishing village of Howth, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Cairngorms National Park, many people enjoy the food that this serene destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and museums around the coastal destination of Howth, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this fishing village makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairngorms National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and food around the peaceful fishing village of Howth. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park is a fun place to experience. In Cairngorms National Park, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

Howth is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find food around the serene destination of Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.

When comparing the travel costs between Howth and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Howth or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Howth or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Howth as well as Cairngorms National Park. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Howth this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Howth is around the same temperature as Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Howth in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Howth often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Howth gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Howth gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Howth or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Howth are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Howth for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Howth is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Howth average around 11°C (52°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Howth usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Howth gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Howth usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Howth gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Howth or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Howth during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Howth in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Cairngorms National Park can be very cold during winter. Howth is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Howth often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Howth gets 56 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Howth gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Howth or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Howth and Cairngorms National Park. Most visitors come to Howth for the beaches and the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Howth is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Howth in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Howth usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Howth gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Howth usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Howth gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Howth