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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Killarney?

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 Killarney. 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 stunning, diverse, and dramatic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. 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.

Isle of Skye and Killarney: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Isle of Skye. Although Isle of Skye and Killarney are both popular with visitors, Isle of Skye has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Isle of Skye is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Killarney is known for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm. Isle of Skye is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. It is also home to The Old Man of Storr. Killarney is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

How is Isle of Skye different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Killarney is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Isle of Skye 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, Isle of Skye makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Isle of Skye or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Killarney 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 Killarney. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Killarney Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is well known for its beaches. However, Killarney is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Isle of Skye attract visitors from all over. 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.

Killarney is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Killarney Better for Hiking?

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

Around Isle of Skye visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

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 Isle of Skye or Killarney Better for Families?

Killarney 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.

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 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 Killarney Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye and Killarney both very good 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 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 Isle of Skye or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye is well known for backpackers. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

Killarney is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

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 Killarney a more walkable city?

Killarney is not a good area for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Killarney?

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

Families should spend more time in Killarney than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.

One day in Isle of Skye or Killarney?

You'll find food around the island of Isle of Skye. 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, many people enjoy the museums and food that this local town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Killarney?

You'll find food around the diverse destination of Isle of Skye. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Killarney is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Killarney?

You'll find food around the dramatic island of Isle of Skye. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the charming destination of Killarney. 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 Killarney?

Isle of Skye 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.

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

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

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 Killarney Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Killarney?

Isle of Skye has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Killarney in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Killarney. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Killarney. The autumn months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Killarney. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Killarney averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Killarney. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Killarney. The cuisine are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Isle of Skye in the winter. In January, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in January than Killarney. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Killarney and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Killarney in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Killarney. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Killarney and Isle of Skye