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

Should you visit Killarney or Lyon?

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 Lyon 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 natural, peaceful, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Killarney and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Killarney or Lyon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon. Although Killarney and Lyon are popular destinations, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Killarney is famous for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Lyon is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Killarney different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lyon that are not to be missed. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon 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 Lyon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

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

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon Better for its Old Town?

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

Lyon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Is Killarney or Lyon Better for Hiking?

Killarney is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Killarney is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Lyon?

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

Lyon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Killarney or Lyon Better for Families?

Both Killarney and Lyon are high quality 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, Lyon is very family-friendly. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Killarney or Lyon Better for Couples?

Both Killarney and Lyon are high quality 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.

Lyon is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Killarney or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is well known for backpackers. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Killarney. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.

Is Killarney or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is terrific for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

Lyon is a very popular city for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Killarney is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lyon can take you anywhere. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Killarney or Lyon a more walkable city?

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

Lyon is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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 Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Lyon?

In either Killarney or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon 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 Lyon.

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

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

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

One day in Killarney or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

People visit Lyon because there is so much to do. 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 Lyon?

Killarney is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Lyon because there is so much to do. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Killarney or Lyon?

You'll find museums and food around the natural destination of Killarney. This town offers something for everyone. 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.

People visit Lyon because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Killarney or Lyon?

The local town of Killarney offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Lyon 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Killarney or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Lyon. Most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Killarney is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Killarney in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Killarney usually receives more rain than Lyon. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Killarney or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Lyon. The autumn months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

In October, Killarney is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 12°C (53°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Killarney usually gets more rain in October than Lyon. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Killarney or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Killarney this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lyon. Killarney is much warmer than Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. In January, Killarney usually receives more rain than Lyon. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Killarney or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Killarney during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Lyon in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Killarney is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Killarney in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in April than Lyon. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Killarney