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

Should you visit Interlaken or Killarney?

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 Killarney can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a stunning, adventurous, and adrenaline-filled town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for skiing, food, 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.

Interlaken and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Killarney?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Interlaken. Although Interlaken and Killarney are both popular with visitors, Interlaken has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Interlaken is more popular for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Killarney is known for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm. Interlaken is more touristy than Killarney and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. It is also home to its many mountain views.. Killarney is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

How is Interlaken different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Killarney Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Killarney

Interlaken is a town with good options for winter skiing. However, Killarney is not a skiing destination.

Interlaken is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. 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.

Killarney is not a skiing destination.


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

Interlaken
Killarney

Killarney is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken
Killarney

Interlaken is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Interlaken makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Interlaken or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Killarney

Killarney is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Interlaken or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Killarney

Interlaken is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Interlaken visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Many visitors go to Killarney for the hiking trails. 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 Interlaken or Killarney Better for Families?

Interlaken
Killarney

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

Interlaken is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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!

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Killarney is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Interlaken or Killarney Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Killarney

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

Interlaken is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Killarney is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.


Is Interlaken or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Killarney

Interlaken and Killarney are both good 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 Killarney. 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 Interlaken or Killarney Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Interlaken
Killarney

Interlaken is well known for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Interlaken. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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

Is Interlaken or Killarney a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Killarney

Interlaken is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

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.


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

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Killarney?

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

Families should spend more time in Interlaken than Killarney. 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 Killarney. 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 Interlaken than Killarney 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 Interlaken.


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

One day in Interlaken or Killarney?

You'll find skiing and food around the town of Interlaken. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

With museums and food around the local town of Killarney, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Killarney?

You'll find food and skiing around the stunning destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and museums around the destination of Killarney, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Killarney?

You'll find skiing and food around the stunning town of Interlaken. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Killarney, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Killarney?

Interlaken is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Killarney 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Interlaken?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Interlaken is $231, while the average daily cost in Killarney is $179. 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 Interlaken and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $133
    Killarney $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $266
    Killarney $220
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken 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 Interlaken


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: Interlaken Hotel Prices and Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Killarney $21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

Also for Interlaken, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $284
  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $160
  • Private Group transfer Zurich Airport - Interlaken: $1,312
  • Private Transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $240

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 Interlaken or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Interlaken 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
    Interlaken $64
    Killarney $49
Typical Food Prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland: $143
  • Cheese and Chocolate Full-Day Food Tour: $733

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.
    Interlaken $104
    Killarney $20

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Hofstetten bei Brienz: Trauffer Erlebniswelt Ticket: $16
  • Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken: $29
  • Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm: $42
  • Rope Park Climbing Adventure with Entry Ticket: $46
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder: $86
  • Bollywood Tour Gstaad - Express Tour: $90
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder (Top of Interlaken): $102
  • Interlaken Valley Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $108
  • Bike Tour of the Interlaken Valley: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $111
  • Waterfalls Day Tour: $119

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
    Interlaken $17
    Killarney $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Interlaken and Killarney, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. And not only is Killarney much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Killarney would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Killarney 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 Killarney.

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Killarney?

Killarney has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Killarney, 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 Killarney?

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 Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Interlaken is a little warmer than Killarney in the summer. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Killarney. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Killarney in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Killarney. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Interlaken is a little warmer than Killarney. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Interlaken in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Killarney averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Killarney. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Killarney in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Killarney. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine.

Interlaken can be very cold during winter. In January, Interlaken is generally much colder than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 3°C (37°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. Interlaken usually gets less rain in January than Killarney. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Killarney in the Spring?

Both Killarney and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

Interlaken is a little warmer than Killarney in the spring. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

In April, Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of rain as Killarney. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Interlaken

Interlaken Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)