A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Dublin for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Dublin?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Dublin. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a picturesque, stunning, and diverse island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Dublin

Dublin is a welcoming, fun, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

Isle of Skye and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Dublin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dublin. Although Isle of Skye and Dublin are popular destinations, Dublin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dublin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is famous for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Dublin is famous for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse.

How is Isle of Skye different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Dublin?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Dublin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Isle of Skye is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is terrific for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Dublin is a must-see party destination. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Music?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is a very popular place for live music. However, Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Dublin while you're in town. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Isle of Skye is a great destination for the beache. However, Dublin is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Isle of Skye. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Dublin is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dublin. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Isle of Skye is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Isle of Skye draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Dublin?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Dublin is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Isle of Skye and Dublin both great destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.


Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Isle of Skye and Dublin are both great destinations for backpackers.

Isle of Skye is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

Dublin is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Is Isle of Skye or Dublin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Dublin has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.


Is Isle of Skye or Dublin a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Dublin

Dublin is terrific for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Dublin. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Dublin?

In either Isle of Skye or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Dublin has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dublin than Isle of Skye. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than Isle of Skye 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 Dublin.


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Dublin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Dublin 2-5

One day in Isle of Skye or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Isle of Skye. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Dublin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this welcoming city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Dublin?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dublin is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Isle of Skye or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dublin, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this laid-back destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Isle of Skye or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the dramatic destination of Isle of Skye. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dublin is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Dublin or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Dublin is £123. 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 Isle of Skye and Dublin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Dublin £58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Dublin £116
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Dublin

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye or Dublin? 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 Isle of Skye


Hotels in Dublin


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: Dublin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Dublin £17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dublin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Dublin:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    £13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dublin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dublin:

  • The Westin Hotel Dublin To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $169
  • The Shelbourne Hotel Dublin To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $169
  • The Croke Park Hotel Dublin To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $181
  • Shannon: Private Airport Arrival Transfer to Dublin: $624
  • Private Transfer: Dublin to Dublin Airport DUB in Luxury Van: $118
  • Private Transfer: Dublin to Dublin Airport DUB in Business Car: $109
  • Private Transfer: Dublin Airport DUB to Dublin in Luxury Van: $118
  • Private Transfer from Dundalk to Belfast Airport (BFS): $180
  • Private Transfer from Dun Laoghaire Port to Dublin Airport (DUB): $46
  • Private Transfer from Dun Laoghaire Cruise Port to Dublin City: $46
  • Private Transfer from Dublin city to Dun Laoghaire Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Transfer from Dublin airport to Dublin city center - One way Minivan: $187

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Dublin?

Prices for flights to both Dublin and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Dublin £42

Typical Food Prices in Dublin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dublin:


  • Lunch Lynam's Pub
    £3.38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dublin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dublin.

  • Walking Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $30
  • Dublin 3-Course Dinner and Live Shows at The Irish House Party: $31
  • No Diet Club - Best Food Tour in Dublin !: $60
  • Dublin Irish Night Show, Dance and Traditional 3-Course Dinner: $61
  • Grand Canal Cruise with Dinner: $62
  • NO DIET CLUB - Best Food Tour in Dublin !: $63
  • Dublin Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Dublin Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Delicious Walking Food Tour: $81
  • Skip the Line: Irish Night Show Including 4-Course Dinner Ticket: $94
  • Howth Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Tour: $97
  • Dublin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Dublin £21

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $231

Typical Entertainment Prices in Dublin

Here are a few typical costs in Dublin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Wild Wicklow Tour
    £22
  • Guinness Brewery for Two
    £23
  • St Pauls Cathedral
    £3.85
  • Dublin Writer's Museum
    £5.39

Tours and Activities in Dublin

Here are a few actual costs in Dublin for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • VIP Irish Food and Drinks Tour with Jamesons Cocktail Class : $105
  • (Nearly!) All of Dublin in 5 hours (Walking Tour): $293
  • (Small Group) Cliffs of Moher and Castle Tour from Dublin: $142
  • 1 Hour Private Insta Photography Tour in Dublin: $76
  • 1-Hour Cocktail Masterclass Experience in Dublin: $50
  • 2-Day Wild Atlantic Way Tour From Dublin: $220
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour from Dublin : $21
  • 3 Hour Tour Freemasons and Templars Secret Societies: $20
  • 3-Hour Drinks on Foot Dublin Walking Guided Tour: $30
  • 4-Day Grand Atlantic Rail Tour from Dublin: $1,191
  • 5-Day Tour of West Ireland: Blarney Stone & Cliffs of Moher: $1,473
  • 6 Hour Private Tour of Dublin: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Dublin £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Dublin

Also in Dublin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Authentic Brewery Tour: $11
  • Dublin Traditional Irish Pub Crawl: $15
  • Generation Pub Crawl: $15
  • Dublin Epic Pub Crawl: Experience Dublin's pubs and nightlife: $15
  • "Dublin Delight Pub Expedition" Pub Crawl: $16
  • The Dublin Liberties Distillery: Tour with Whiskey Tasting: $18
  • City Pub Crawl Experience: $20
  • Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $22
  • Skip the Line: Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour and Tasting in Dublin Ticket: $22
  • Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery Experience: $24
  • Roe and Co Distillery Cocktail Workshop Experience: $27
  • Dublin Jameson Distillery Tour with Whiskey and Cocktail Tastings: $33


When comparing the travel costs between Isle of Skye and Dublin, we can see that Dublin 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Dublin Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and Dublin, 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 Isle of Skye or Dublin?

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 Isle of Skye or Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is cooler than Dublin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Dublin averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Dublin. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Dublin. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Dublin 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Dublin. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Dublin during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Dublin. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Dublin 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Dublin. The winter months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

The weather in Isle of Skye can be very cold. Isle of Skye is cooler than Dublin in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Dublin. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Dublin. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Dublin 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dublin for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is cooler than Dublin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Dublin averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Dublin. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Dublin 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dublin and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Dublin
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)