A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kilkenny vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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 Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can help you decide which place is right for you.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a medieval, fascinating, and active town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a majestic, world-class, and spectacular mountain town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc


Is there more to do in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Kilkenny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kilkenny is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Kilkenny and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is famous for Mont Blanc. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Kilkenny different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for winter skiing. However, Kilkenny is not a skiing destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is among the world's best ski destinations. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Kilkenny is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Kilkenny is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Kilkenny. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc know how to have a good time. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

If you're looking for night time activities Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.


Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for its resorts. However, Kilkenny is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a perfect choice. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Kilkenny is not a resort destination.

Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for its Old Town?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Kilkenny is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc specifically for its hiking. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Kilkenny is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Kilkenny is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

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 Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great mountain town to visit for backpackers. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

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

Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is terrific for its public transit. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can take you anywhere. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

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

Is Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Kilkenny
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable destination. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kilkenny?

How long in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than in Kilkenny. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kilkenny, and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Kilkenny 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.


  • How many days in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kilkenny 1-2 
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7

One day in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Kilkenny, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The beautiful mountain town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offers skiing and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people visit Kilkenny for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kilkenny, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

The destination of Kilkenny offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kilkenny. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers something for everyone. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has to offer. This mountain town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kilkenny?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kilkenny is €88, while the average daily cost in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is €235. 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 Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kilkenny 44
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kilkenny 88
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
Compare Hotels in Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Looking for a hotel in Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? 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 Kilkenny


Hotels in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


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: Kilkenny Hotel Prices and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kilkenny 21
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chamonix (FR) to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Chamonix to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Chamonix-Morzine-Avoriaz to Geneva Airport GVA-Departure Transfer: $147
  • Courmayeur Ski Club to Linate Airport (LIN) - Departure Transfer: $162
  • Courmayeur to Milan Malpensa Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $137
  • Courmayeur to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Courmayeur, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $153
  • Private Departure Transfer from Chamonix to Milan Airport: $170
  • Private Transfer Chamonix and Morzine to Milan Malpensa Airport: $229

Is it cheaper to fly into Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Prices for flights to both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kilkenny 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
    Kilkenny 29
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Food Tour in Chamonix: $444

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kilkenny 15
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80

Tours and Activities in Kilkenny

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

  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • From Dublin: 5-Day Tour of Ireland's South-East: $1,287
  • Fun Family Walking Tour in Kilkenny: $217
  • Fun Family walking tour in Kilkenny: $426
  • Fun Walking Tour during Christmas in Kilkenny: $533
  • Fun Walking Tour during Christmas in Kilkenny: $271
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • Hurling Tours Ireland - Freshford Experience: $32
  • Hurling Tours Ireland - Kilkenny City Experience: $32
  • Hurling Tours Ireland - O'Loughlin Gaels : $33
  • Kayak and SUP Tours Kilkenny: $27
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21

Tours and Activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • On an adventure with Rosalie - Nancy-sur-Cluses: $5.45
  • Monte Bianco Skyway Experience : $144
  • Fly in Paragliding! Paragliding experience over Chamonix!: $171
  • Live an eBike Mountain Bike Experience in the Heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc: $195
  • Bespoke Private Chamonix Experience: $196
  • Altitude experience above Chamonix by eBike: $298
  • Chamonix: Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • From Geneva: Chamonix Mont-Blanc Private Guided Tour: $416
  • Geneva: Private Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour: $538

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kilkenny 12
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

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

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158

Sample the Local Flavors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver - 10 hours: $823


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Kilkenny Expensive? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kilkenny or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Kilkenny has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Kilkenny and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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.