A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inner Hebrides vs. Killarney for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

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

Should I visit Inner Hebrides or Killarney? 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.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a peaceful, tranquil, and stunning islands. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Killarney

Killarney is a peaceful, charming, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Inner Hebrides and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Killarney. Although Inner Hebrides and Killarney are both popular with visitors, Killarney has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Killarney is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm, while Inner Hebrides is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Killarney is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. It is also home to Killarney National Park. Inner Hebrides is popular for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

How is Inner Hebrides different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

Killarney is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Killarney is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

Dining out at restaurants in both Inner Hebrides and Killarney can be an enjoyable experience.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Inner Hebrides. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Killarney. 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 Inner Hebrides or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

Killarney is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Killarney. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Inner Hebrides or Killarney Better for Beaches?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

Inner Hebrides is well known for its beaches. However, Killarney is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Inner Hebrides attract visitors from all over. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Killarney is not a beach destination.


Is Inner Hebrides or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

If you're looking to go hiking, Inner Hebrides and Killarney both have excellent trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Inner Hebrides. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Killarney. 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.

Is Inner Hebrides or Killarney Better for Families?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

Killarney is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Killarney is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Inner Hebrides. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.

Is Inner Hebrides or Killarney Better for Couples?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

With fun activities for couples, both Inner Hebrides and Killarney make for a excellent place to visit.

Inner Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

Couples visit Killarney frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.


Is Inner Hebrides or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

Inner Hebrides and Killarney are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Inner Hebrides. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.

Killarney is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Inner Hebrides or Killarney Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Inner Hebrides and Killarney.

Public transit is mostly limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.

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

Is Inner Hebrides or Killarney a more walkable city?

Inner Hebrides
Killarney

Killarney is not a good area for its walkability. However, Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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.

Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Inner Hebrides?

How long in Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Inner Hebrides and Killarney. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Inner Hebrides than in Killarney. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Inner Hebrides, and 2-3 days is enough time in Killarney.

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

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


  • How many days in Inner Hebrides or Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inner Hebrides 3-5 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

You'll find food around the islands of Inner Hebrides. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Killarney, you'll find museums and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

You'll find food around the stunning destination of Inner Hebrides. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This islands offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Killarney is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

You'll find food around the natural islands of Inner Hebrides. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this islands makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this islands has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

Inner Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the town of Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Inner Hebrides?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inner Hebrides is £142, while the average daily cost in Killarney is £143. 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 Inner Hebrides and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inner Hebrides £67
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inner Hebrides £134
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Inner Hebrides and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides


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: Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inner Hebrides £76
    Killarney £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53
  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282

Is it cheaper to fly into Inner Hebrides or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Inner Hebrides 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
    Inner Hebrides £31
    Killarney £39

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.
    Inner Hebrides £22
    Killarney £16

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
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • 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
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Day Tour: $39
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inner Hebrides £7.71
    Killarney £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


When comparing the travel costs between Inner Hebrides and Killarney, we can see that Killarney 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 Inner Hebrides Expensive? and Is Killarney Expensive?.