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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Howth?

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 Howth. 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 dramatic, scenic, and picturesque island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Howth

Howth is a scenic, peaceful, and coastal fishing village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Howth: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Howth. Although Isle of Skye and Howth are popular destinations, Howth has more sights and attractions for tourists. Howth is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is famous for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Howth is famous for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. It is also well known for The Baily Lighthouse.

How is Isle of Skye different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Howth 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 Howth?

Howth is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Howth is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Isle of Skye 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 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.

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 Isle of Skye or Howth Better for Nightlife?

Howth is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Howth. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Howth Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye and Howth both offer superb beaches.

Many people visit Isle of Skye for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Howth is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Is Isle of Skye or Howth Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

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 Isle of Skye or Howth Better for Families?

Both Isle of Skye and Howth are nice family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Howth. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Isle of Skye or Howth Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Howth is a good island for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

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

Isle of Skye is well known for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Isle of Skye is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

Howth 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.

Howth has some public transit options. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

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 Howth a more walkable city?

Howth is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Howth?

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

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

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

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

One day in Isle of Skye or Howth?

In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this diverse destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. This island 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.

In Howth, many people enjoy the museums and food that this beautiful fishing village offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this fishing village.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Howth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Howth is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Howth?

Isle of Skye is a fun place to experience. In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and food around the peaceful destination of Howth. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Howth?

You'll find food around the dramatic destination of Isle of Skye. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Howth is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

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

When is the best time to visit Isle of Skye or Howth?

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 Howth in the Summer?

Both Howth and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Howth for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

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

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

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Howth. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Howth in the autumn for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere.

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

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Howth during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Howth 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 Howth. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Howth receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Howth. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

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

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Howth. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth 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 Howth. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Howth receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Howth and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches and the small town charm.

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

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

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

Typical Weather for Howth and Isle of Skye