A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Killarney vs. Cairngorms National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Killarney or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a serene, picturesque, and tranquil national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and hiking.

Killarney and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Killarney or Cairngorms National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Killarney than Cairngorms National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Killarney is better known for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm, while Cairngorms National Park is more popular for its impressive beauty. Killarney is well known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Also, Killarney is famous for Killarney National Park. Cairngorms National Park is well known for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

How is Killarney different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

Killarney is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Killarney. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Killarney or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Killarney and Cairngorms National Park.

Killarney offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Cairngorms National Park has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Killarney or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

Killarney is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Killarney. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Killarney or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

Both Killarney and Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.


Is Killarney or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

Both Killarney and Cairngorms National Park 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, Cairngorms National Park is very family-friendly. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Is Killarney or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

Both Killarney and Cairngorms National Park are superb 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.

Cairngorms National Park is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Killarney or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

Killarney and Cairngorms National Park are notable 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 Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.


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

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Killarney and Cairngorms National Park.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Killarney or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Killarney
Cairngorms National Park

Killarney is not a good area for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Killarney Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Cairngorms National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Killarney than Cairngorms National Park 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 Killarney.


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

One day in Killarney or Cairngorms National Park?

With museums and food around the local town of Killarney, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food around the national park of Cairngorms National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

With food and museums around the charming destination of Killarney, there's plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food around the tranquil destination of Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Killarney or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and food around the local town of Killarney. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food around the serene national park of Cairngorms National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

A week in Killarney or Cairngorms National Park?

Killarney is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Cairngorms National Park 62

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park 35

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    Cairngorms National Park 31

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 Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83

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 Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Killarney is more expensive. And not only is Cairngorms National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cairngorms National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Killarney or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Killarney is generally around the same temperature as Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 15°C (59°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Killarney often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Killarney is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Killarney usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. In October, Killarney usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Killarney during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cairngorms National Park in the winter. In the winter, Killarney is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Killarney in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Killarney often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. Killarney usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Killarney 7°C (44°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Cairngorms National Park. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty.

In April, Killarney is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 9°C (48°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Killarney usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Killarney usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Killarney

Killarney Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)