A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Killarney vs. La Rochelle for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Hiking

Should you visit Killarney or La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Killarney and La Rochelle: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Killarney or La Rochelle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Rochelle. Although Killarney and La Rochelle are popular destinations, La Rochelle has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Rochelle is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Killarney is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. La Rochelle is famous for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for The Old Port.

How is Killarney different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Killarney
La Rochelle

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Killarney
La Rochelle

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
La Rochelle

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

La Rochelle has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

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 La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

Killarney
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for its beaches. However, Killarney is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in La Rochelle. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Killarney is not a beach destination.


Is Killarney or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

Killarney
La Rochelle

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

La Rochelle has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Is Killarney or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

Killarney
La Rochelle

Killarney is great for hiking. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Killarney for the hiking trails. 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 people include a hike when visiting La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or La Rochelle?

Killarney
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

La Rochelle is a great destination for shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Killarney or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Killarney
La Rochelle

Killarney is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Killarney is very family-friendly. 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Killarney or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

Killarney
La Rochelle

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

La Rochelle is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
La Rochelle

Killarney and La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.


Is Killarney or La Rochelle Better for Students?

Killarney
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

La Rochelle is popular with students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Killarney is not popular with students.

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

Killarney
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal 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 La Rochelle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

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

Is Killarney or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Killarney
La Rochelle

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

La Rochelle is very walkable. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town 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 La Rochelle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Killarney or La Rochelle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.


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

One day in Killarney or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the peaceful town of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the natural destination of Killarney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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

Five days in Killarney or La Rochelle?

The natural town of Killarney offers food and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Killarney. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

La Rochelle 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle is €114. 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 La Rochelle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    La Rochelle 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    La Rochelle 134
Compare Hotels in Killarney and La Rochelle

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or La Rochelle? 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 La Rochelle


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 La Rochelle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    La Rochelle 17

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 La Rochelle

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

  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Cruise Port to Nantes Hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Port to Nantes Airport (NTE): $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or La Rochelle?

Prices for flights to both La Rochelle 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
    La Rochelle 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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    La Rochelle 13

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 La Rochelle

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

  • La Rochelle : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Entry Ticket to the 3 Towers: $12
  • La Rochelle Towers Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Les Minimes and Bay Boat Tour: $18
  • Guided tour of La Rochelle The splendor of merchants in the 18th century: $22
  • Planet Exotica entrance ticket: $23
  • Coastline Sailing Cruise: $27
  • 2-Hour Sunset Sailing Cruise: $31
  • 3-Hour Sailing cruise: $37
  • La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour - 1h: $43
  • Lighthouse at the End of the World Segway Tour - 1h: $43
  • Discover Discovery Walking Tour of La Rochelle: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    La Rochelle 16

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

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


Which is Bigger, Killarney or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle in the Summer?

Both La Rochelle and Killarney during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to La Rochelle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Killarney is cooler than La Rochelle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Killarney in July average around 15°C (59°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 20°C (67°F).

In La Rochelle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Killarney often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in July than La Rochelle. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    La Rochelle 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Killarney or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Killarney is generally cooler than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 12°C (53°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 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 La Rochelle. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    La Rochelle 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Killarney or La Rochelle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Killarney as well as La Rochelle. Most visitors come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Killarney is around the same temperature as La Rochelle in the winter. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Killarney often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the winter. Killarney usually gets more rain in January than La Rochelle. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Killarney 7°C (44°F) 
    La Rochelle 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Killarney or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Killarney because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

In the spring, Killarney is cooler than La Rochelle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Killarney in April average around 9°C (48°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during spring. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Killarney usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    La Rochelle 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Killarney

Killarney La Rochelle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)