A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Killarney vs. Annecy for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Killarney or Annecy?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Killarney and Annecy can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Killarney

Killarney is a local, natural, and peaceful town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a stunning, breathtaking, and quaint alpine town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Killarney and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Killarney or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Killarney and Annecy are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is more touristy than Killarney and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Killarney is famous for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

How is Killarney different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Killarney or Annecy?

Killarney
Annecy

Both Killarney and Annecy have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Annecy offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.


Is the Food Better in Killarney or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Killarney
Annecy

Annecy is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Annecy have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

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 Killarney or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Annecy

Annecy is a alpine town with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Annecy has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Killarney doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Is Killarney or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Killarney
Annecy

Annecy is terrific for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Annecy has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Killarney or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Annecy

Both Killarney and Annecy are destinations which offer superb hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Killarney. 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.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Annecy?

Killarney
Annecy

Annecy is a alpine town with good options for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Annecy is a great destination for shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Killarney or Annecy Better for Families?

Killarney
Annecy

Both Killarney and Annecy are superb to visit with kids.

Killarney is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.


Is Killarney or Annecy Better for Couples?

Killarney
Annecy

Annecy is terrific for romance. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Annecy is a great alpine town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Killarney is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Is Killarney or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Annecy

Killarney and Annecy are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Killarney is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Killarney or Annecy Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Killarney
Annecy

Annecy is a alpine town with good options for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Annecy, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

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


Is Killarney or Annecy a more walkable city?

Killarney
Annecy

Annecy is well known for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Annecy is very walkable. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Killarney Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Killarney or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Annecy due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Killarney, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy 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 Annecy.


  • How many days in Killarney or Annecy? Ideal Length of Stay
    Killarney 2-3 
    Annecy 2-4

One day in Killarney or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. 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.

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

A weekend in Killarney or Annecy?

Killarney 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.

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 alpine town has to offer. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Killarney or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Killarney or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the local destination of Killarney. This town 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.

Annecy is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Annecy or Killarney?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Killarney is €167, while the average daily cost in Annecy is €178. 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 Killarney and Annecy in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Annecy 92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Annecy 184
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Annecy

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or Annecy? 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 Killarney


Hotels in Annecy


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: Killarney Hotel Prices and Annecy Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Annecy 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348
  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

Also for Annecy, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lyon : Luxury private transfer to Annecy in Van: $374
  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $295

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Annecy?

Prices for flights to both Annecy and Killarney 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
    Killarney 46
    Annecy 58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

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

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Annecy

For Annecy, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide: $148
  • Private Market Tour and Modern French Cooking and Meal with a Local in Annecy: $188
  • Private Walking Food Tour: $348

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    Annecy 41

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park: $38
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Bus & Boat Tour: $63
  • Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour (Jaunting Cart Paid Separately) : $63
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Day Tour: $39
  • From Portmagee & Skellig Ring Full-Day Tour: $75
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach: $65
  • Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour: $59
  • Gap of Dunloe Day Tour and Boat Ride from Killarney: $44

Tours and Activities in Annecy

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Annecy.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Yakapedaler : bike rental tour with the Annecy lac: $21
  • Full-day private tour from Geneva to Annecy: $40
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    Annecy 34

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75

Sample the Local Flavors in Annecy

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

  • Wine Tour with private driver: $850


When comparing the travel costs between Killarney and Annecy, we can see that Annecy 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 Killarney Expensive? and Is Annecy Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Killarney or Annecy?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Annecy, 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 Killarney or Annecy?

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 Killarney or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Killarney during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Killarney is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Killarney in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in July than Annecy. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    Annecy 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Annecy. Most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Killarney is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 12°C (53°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Killarney usually receives more rain than Annecy. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    Annecy 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Annecy in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Annecy in the winter. Killarney is much warmer than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the winter. Killarney usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Killarney 7°C (44°F) 
    Annecy 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Killarney is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Killarney in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during spring. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Killarney usually receives more rain than Annecy. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    Annecy 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Annecy and Killarney

Killarney Annecy
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)