A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Killarney vs. Biarritz for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Killarney or Biarritz?

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 Biarritz 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 peaceful, charming, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a dynamic, cultural, and relaxing seaside town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Killarney and Biarritz: 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 nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Killarney or Biarritz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Biarritz. Although Killarney and Biarritz are popular destinations, Biarritz has more sights and attractions for tourists. Biarritz is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Killarney attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Killarney is famous for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Biarritz is famous for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. It is also well known for Grande Plage.

How is Killarney different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Killarney
Biarritz

Killarney is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Killarney offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.


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

Killarney
Biarritz

Biarritz 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, Biarritz makes for a great culinary experience. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

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 Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Biarritz

Biarritz is well known for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Biarritz is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

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 Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Killarney
Biarritz

Biarritz is well known for its resorts. However, Killarney is not a resort destination.

In Biarritz, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Killarney is not a resort destination.


Is Killarney or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Killarney
Biarritz

Biarritz is well known for its beaches. However, Killarney is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Biarritz attract visitors from all over. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Killarney is not a beach destination.

Is Killarney or Biarritz Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Biarritz

Killarney is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Biarritz?

Killarney
Biarritz

Biarritz is well known for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Biarritz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Killarney or Biarritz Better for Families?

Killarney
Biarritz

Both Killarney and Biarritz are excellent 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, Biarritz is very family-friendly. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

Is Killarney or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Killarney
Biarritz

Both Killarney and Biarritz are excellent destinations for a couple's 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.

Biarritz is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

Is Killarney or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Biarritz

Biarritz 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 Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

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

Killarney
Biarritz

Biarritz is a seaside 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 Biarritz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

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

Is Killarney or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Killarney
Biarritz

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

Biarritz is very walkable. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

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 Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Biarritz?

Both Killarney and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Killarney. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Killarney, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Killarney or Biarritz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Killarney 2-3 
    Biarritz 3-7

One day in Killarney or Biarritz?

The town of Killarney offers museums and 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the seaside town of Biarritz. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Biarritz?

Killarney is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Killarney, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Biarritz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Killarney or Biarritz?

Killarney is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the cultural seaside town of Biarritz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside town has to offer.

A week in Killarney or Biarritz?

Killarney 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 town offers something for everyone.

Biarritz is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Biarritz, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Biarritz 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 Biarritz is €131. 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 Biarritz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Biarritz 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Biarritz 148
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Biarritz

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or Biarritz? 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 Biarritz


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 Biarritz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Biarritz 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85
  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749
  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Biarritz?

Prices for flights to both Biarritz 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
    Biarritz 34

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 Biarritz

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

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    Biarritz 16

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 Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Pierre IBAIALDE: Guided Tour Ham Workshop, tasting: $5.46
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Walking tours of Biarritz: $22
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Unusual Guided Tour in a Segway in Biarritz: $59
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Guided Tapas Tour Hondarribia from Hendaye with Food and Drinks: $108
  • Private E-bike Guided Tour: $155

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    Biarritz 8.05

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Killarney and Biarritz, we can see that Killarney is more expensive. And not only is Biarritz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Biarritz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Biarritz 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 Biarritz.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Killarney Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Killarney or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Biarritz, 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 Biarritz?

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 Biarritz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Biarritz. Many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Killarney is cooler than Biarritz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Killarney in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Biarritz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In the summer, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets less rain in July than Biarritz. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Killarney in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Killarney is generally cooler than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 12°C (53°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during autumn. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. It's quite rainy in Killarney. In October, Killarney usually receives around the same amount of rain as Biarritz. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Biarritz in the Winter?

Both Biarritz and Killarney during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Killarney is cooler than Biarritz in the winter. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. Killarney usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Killarney 7°C (44°F) 
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Biarritz. The spring months attract visitors to Killarney because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

In the spring, Killarney is cooler than Biarritz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Killarney in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Biarritz averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Killarney usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz during spring. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Killarney usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Killarney

Killarney Biarritz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)