A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Interlaken vs. Kilkenny for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Interlaken or Kilkenny?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Kilkenny can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a medieval, fascinating, and active town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Kilkenny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kilkenny. Although Interlaken and Kilkenny are popular destinations, Kilkenny has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kilkenny is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Kilkenny and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Kilkenny is famous for its medieval castle and long running history. It is also well known for The Kilkenny Castle.

The Kilkenny Castle

How is Interlaken different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is very good for winter skiing. However, Kilkenny is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Kilkenny is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Interlaken or Kilkenny?

Kilkenny is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Kilkenny specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Interlaken or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Interlaken and Kilkenny both to be very good destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kilkenny. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Kilkenny is very good for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kilkenny. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Kilkenny is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Interlaken specifically for its hiking. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Kilkenny?

Kilkenny is very good for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Kilkenny. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Interlaken is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is one of the most popular family destinations. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kilkenny. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Interlaken is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Interlaken has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Kilkenny is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken and Kilkenny are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Interlaken is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Interlaken is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Interlaken can get you to some places easily. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

While Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.

Is Interlaken or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Kilkenny is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Kilkenny is very walkable. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored on foot.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Interlaken Worth Visiting? and Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Interlaken or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Interlaken than Kilkenny because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Interlaken, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kilkenny.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kilkenny than Interlaken 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 Kilkenny.

One day in Interlaken or Kilkenny?

The beautiful town of Interlaken offers food and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the medieval town of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kilkenny, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Interlaken or Kilkenny?

Interlaken is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Interlaken, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Interlaken or Kilkenny?

Interlaken is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Interlaken, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kilkenny, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Interlaken or Kilkenny?

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Kilkenny 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Kilkenny?

Kilkenny has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Kilkenny, 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 Interlaken or Kilkenny?

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 Interlaken or Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

In the summer, Interlaken is a little warmer than Kilkenny. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 15°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Kilkenny. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Kilkenny. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Interlaken or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. Interlaken is much colder than Kilkenny in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Kilkenny. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Kilkenny in the Spring?

Both Kilkenny and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Interlaken is a little warmer than Kilkenny. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Interlaken