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

Should you visit Killarney or Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny 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.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Killarney and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Killarney or Kilkenny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kilkenny. Although Killarney and Kilkenny are popular destinations, Kilkenny has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kilkenny is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Killarney is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Kilkenny is famous for its medieval castle and long running history. It is also well known for The Kilkenny Castle.

The Kilkenny Castle

How is Killarney different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kilkenny is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kilkenny. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

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.

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

Kilkenny 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, Kilkenny makes for a great culinary experience. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

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 Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

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

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

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 Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Kilkenny is well known for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Kilkenny is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Is Killarney or Kilkenny Better for Hiking?

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

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

Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Kilkenny?

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

Kilkenny is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Killarney or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Both Killarney and Kilkenny 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, Kilkenny is very family-friendly. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

Is Killarney or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Both Killarney and Kilkenny 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.

Kilkenny is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.

Is Killarney or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney and Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

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

Kilkenny is a 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 Kilkenny, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses through town.

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

Is Killarney or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

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

Kilkenny is very walkable. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored 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 Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Killarney or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Killarney than Kilkenny because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Killarney, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kilkenny.

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

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

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

One day in Killarney or Kilkenny?

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 town of Kilkenny. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kilkenny has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Killarney or Kilkenny?

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 active destination of Kilkenny. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Killarney or Kilkenny?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating town of Kilkenny. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Killarney or Kilkenny?

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.

Kilkenny 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 3-Day Tours from Dublin, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dublin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Killarney and Kilkenny, we can see that Killarney is more expensive. And not only is Kilkenny much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kilkenny would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kilkenny and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in 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 Kilkenny.

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

Which is Bigger, Killarney or Kilkenny?

Kilkenny has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Kilkenny, 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 Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

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

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

Should I visit Killarney or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Killarney during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Kilkenny because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. Killarney usually gets more rain in October than Kilkenny. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Killarney or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Kilkenny. The winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

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

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

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Killarney usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Killarney or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Kilkenny. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty.

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

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

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

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Killarney