A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Howth vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

Should I visit Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? 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 scenic, peaceful, and coastal fishing village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a epic, majestic, and world-class mountain town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Howth and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Howth, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Howth is more popular for its museums, beaches, and small town charm. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Howth and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is famous for Mont Blanc. Howth is well known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin.

Mont Blanc

How is Howth different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for winter skiing. However, Howth is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc should be on your list. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Howth is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Howth is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Howth offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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.

Is Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for its resorts. However, Howth is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great choice. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Howth is not a resort destination.

Is Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Beaches?

Howth is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Howth for it's beautiful 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

Is Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Many visitors go to Howth for the hiking trails. 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.

Is Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very kid-friendly mountain town. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great mountain town to visit for backpackers. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for its public transit. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is top-notch. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

While Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Howth and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable destination. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Howth Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Howth?

How long in Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Howth and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than in Howth. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Howth, and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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

Couples should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Howth. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Howth 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

One day in Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Howth, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this epic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This mountain town 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people visit Howth for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Howth, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

The destination of Howth offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a fun place to experience. In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Howth or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Howth. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This fishing village offers something for everyone. 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.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this majestic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Howth Expensive? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Expensive?.