A Travel Price Comparison for Ireland Kilkenny vs. Dingle for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kilkenny or Dingle?

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

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dingle

Dingle is a rustic, picturesque, and serene peninsula. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Kilkenny and Dingle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kilkenny or Dingle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kilkenny. Although Kilkenny and Dingle are both popular with visitors, Kilkenny has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kilkenny is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Dingle is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dingle is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs. Kilkenny is popular for its medieval castle and long running history. It is also home to The Kilkenny Castle.

The Kilkenny Castle

How is Kilkenny different from Dingle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kilkenny or Dingle?

Kilkenny is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its historical sights.

Kilkenny offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

While most people don't head to Dingle specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the natural beauty, but there are a couple of landmarks in the area including the Eask Tower, Gallarus Oratory, and the Blasket Centre.

Is the Food Better in Kilkenny or Dingle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kilkenny is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Kilkenny is an experience not to be missed. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dingle. You'll find great seafood throughout the peninsula. There's also traditional Irish food available including Irish stew or cabbage and bacon.

Is Kilkenny or Dingle Better for Nightlife?

Kilkenny is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for nightlife.

Kilkenny has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Dingle doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area's not known for its nightlife but you can visit The Hillgrove, which is the peninsula's only nightclub. It's in a hotel and there is weekly entertainment.

Is Kilkenny or Dingle Better for Beaches?

Dingle is a great destination for the beache. However, Kilkenny is not a beach destination.

Dingle is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It's not hard to find a quiet beach with scenic views and a serene setting. Some of the best beaches in the area include Coumeenole, Brandon Bay, and Ventry.

Kilkenny is not a beach destination.

Is Kilkenny or Dingle Better for its Old Town?

Kilkenny is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Is Kilkenny or Dingle Better for Hiking?

Dingle is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dingle. There are a variety of walking paths and hiking trails that take you through the coastal setting, rolling mountains, and remote nature. Some of the best trails in the area include the long distance hiking trail the Dingle Way, Mount Brandon, and Glenteenassig Forest Park.

Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kilkenny or Dingle?

Kilkenny is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Kilkenny to go shopping. 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.

Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kilkenny or Dingle Better for Families?

Kilkenny is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kilkenny is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Dingle offers lots of family activities. There are coastal walks and beaches that are perfect for kids. You can also visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, do a dolphin tour, or enjoy some watersports. Horseback riding and Sandy Feet Farm are both fun as well.

Is Kilkenny or Dingle Better for Couples?

Both Kilkenny and Dingle are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Kilkenny frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Dingle is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.

Is Kilkenny or Dingle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dingle is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dingle is a great peninsula to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels on the peninsula and there are interesting music festivals and other events that make this a good backpacker destination.

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 Dingle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kilkenny is a popular place for its public transit. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Kilkenny, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dingle. Bus Eireann offers buses daily to Tralee and then there are connections to other destinations.

Is Kilkenny or Dingle a more walkable city?

Kilkenny is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Dingle is generally not a very walkable town. If you have enough time, there are countless walking trails throughout the peninsula.

For even more information, also check out Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting? and Is Dingle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dingle or Kilkenny?

How long in Kilkenny or Dingle?

In either Kilkenny or Dingle, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dingle than Kilkenny because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kilkenny, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dingle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kilkenny than Dingle 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 Kilkenny.

One day in Kilkenny or Dingle?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kilkenny. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The beautiful peninsula of Dingle offers food. 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 Dingle?

Kilkenny is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dingle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this peninsula makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dingle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kilkenny or Dingle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kilkenny. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dingle is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dingle, 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 Dingle?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the medieval destination of Kilkenny. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dingle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This peninsula 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 Coach Bus Tours in Ireland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Kilkenny or Dingle?

Kilkenny has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Dingle. When comparing the sizes of Kilkenny and Dingle, 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 Kilkenny or Dingle?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kilkenny or Dingle in the Summer?

Both Dingle and Kilkenny are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kilkenny for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dingle because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kilkenny is around the same temperature as Dingle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kilkenny in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Dingle averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Kilkenny usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dingle during summer. Kilkenny gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kilkenny usually receives less rain than Dingle. Kilkenny gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kilkenny or Dingle in the Autumn?

Both Dingle and Kilkenny during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dingle this time of year.

In October, Kilkenny is generally around the same temperature as Dingle. Daily temperatures in Kilkenny average around 11°C (51°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Kilkenny often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dingle. Kilkenny gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 79 hours of full sun.

Dingle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kilkenny usually gets less rain in October than Dingle. Kilkenny gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kilkenny or Dingle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kilkenny and Dingle. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dingle for the museums and the cuisine.

Kilkenny is cooler than Dingle in the winter. The daily temperature in Kilkenny averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Dingle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Kilkenny usually receives more sunshine than Dingle during winter. Kilkenny gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

Dingle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Kilkenny usually receives less rain than Dingle. Kilkenny gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kilkenny or Dingle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kilkenny as well as Dingle. Many travelers come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Dingle in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kilkenny is around the same temperature as Dingle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kilkenny in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Dingle averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Kilkenny often gets less sunshine than Dingle. Kilkenny gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 150 hours of full sun.

Kilkenny usually gets less rain in April than Dingle. Kilkenny gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dingle and Kilkenny