A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Killarney vs. Bordeaux for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Killarney or Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux 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 charming, local, and natural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a romantic, historical, and elegant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Killarney and Bordeaux: 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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Killarney or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bordeaux. Although Killarney and Bordeaux are popular destinations, Bordeaux has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bordeaux is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Bordeaux is more touristy than Killarney and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also well known for Cathédrale Saint-André. 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 Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Killarney
Bordeaux

Both Killarney and Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.


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

Killarney
Bordeaux

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Bordeaux has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

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 Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Killarney
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bordeaux to see the historical old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Killarney or Bordeaux Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Bordeaux

Killarney is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

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.

Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Bordeaux?

Killarney
Bordeaux

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

Bordeaux is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Killarney or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Killarney
Bordeaux

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

Killarney is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.


Is Killarney or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Killarney
Bordeaux

Both Killarney and Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Is Killarney or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Bordeaux

Killarney and Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Killarney or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Killarney
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is well known for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Bordeaux. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Killarney is not popular with students.


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

Killarney
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is well known for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bordeaux. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

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

Is Killarney or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Killarney
Bordeaux

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

Bordeaux is very walkable. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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 Bordeaux Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Bordeaux?

In either Killarney or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Killarney because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Killarney, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

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


  • How many days in Killarney or Bordeaux? Ideal Length of Stay
    Killarney 2-3 
    Bordeaux 2-5

One day in Killarney or Bordeaux?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux?

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 museums and nightlife around the elegant destination of Bordeaux. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Killarney or Bordeaux?

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 elegant city of Bordeaux. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Killarney or Bordeaux?

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.

Bordeaux is a popular choice for travelers. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux is €118. 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 Bordeaux in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Bordeaux 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Bordeaux 126
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Bordeaux

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or Bordeaux? 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 Bordeaux


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 Bordeaux Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Bordeaux 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Airport to Bordeaux Premium Class Private Transfer: $273
  • Airport to Lège-Cap-Ferret Transfer in Business Sedan: $273
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $115
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $108
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $147
  • Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Car: $97
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Bordeaux City: $165
  • Private Transfer from Bordeaux Airport to City of Bordeaux: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Bordeaux?

Prices for flights to both Bordeaux 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
    Bordeaux 45

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 Bordeaux

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

  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $63
  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $63
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $64
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $74
  • Sweet Specialties Tasting Bakeries Food Tour: $82
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour by a local guide: $84
  • Bordeaux Organic Food Tour - French Apéro Style: $93
  • Bordeaux : unforgettable Food Tour by a local guide: $95
  • Private Bakery, Chocolate & Patisserie Food Tour: $95
  • Food Tour in Bordeaux : $97
  • Bordeaux Food Tour - Bakeries, Pastries, Chocolate and more!: $98
  • Bordeaux Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    Bordeaux 7.89

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Killarney Hop - On, Hop - Off Tour: $16
  • Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall: $22
  • Guided Boat Tour to Innisfallen Island: $22
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on theTralee to Fenit Greenway: $27
  • Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney - Scenic Tour (Minimum 4 People - 1 way).: $33
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney : $36
  • Killarney Carriage Tours National Park and Lakes: $37

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

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

  • Bordeaux : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Free Walking City Tour: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Bordeaux Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights & Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The best of Find more than wine on this self-guided audio tour: $6.99
  • Centre of Explore 2,000 years of history on a self-guided audio tour: $8.99
  • Bordeaux Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Guided Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    Bordeaux 26

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 Bordeaux

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

  • Wine and Trade Museum Entry Ticket & Wine Tasting: $11
  • Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $11
  • Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $16
  • Wine Tasting Cruise: $22
  • Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $24
  • Bordeaux Pub Crawl: $25
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $27
  • Wine Tour and Tasting: $29
  • Unusual Wine Tasting Experience - Wood & Wine: $30
  • Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $32
  • Wine Country Vineyards Tour w/ Local Wine Tastings: $59
  • Bordeaux Vineyards Wine Tasting Half-Day Trip: $62


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

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


Which is Bigger, Killarney or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

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 Killarney or Bordeaux in the Summer?

Both Bordeaux and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Killarney is cooler than Bordeaux. Typically, the summer temperatures in Killarney in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Bordeaux. Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Killarney usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Killarney during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Killarney in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Killarney is generally cooler than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 12°C (53°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. Killarney usually gets more rain in October than Bordeaux. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Bordeaux in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Bordeaux. Most visitors come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Killarney is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the winter. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Killarney usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Killarney 7°C (44°F) 
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Bordeaux. The spring months attract visitors to Killarney because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

In the spring, Killarney is cooler than Bordeaux. Typically, the spring temperatures in Killarney in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bordeaux. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Killarney

Killarney Bordeaux
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)