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

Should you visit Killarney or Marseille?

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 Marseille 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.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Killarney and Marseille: 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 for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Killarney or Marseille?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marseille than Killarney, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marseille is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Killarney is more popular for its museums, hiking, and small town charm. Killarney is well known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Marseille is well known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. Also, Marseille is famous for The Vieux Port.

How is Killarney different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Killarney
Marseille

Killarney is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille 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.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Killarney
Marseille

Marseille 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 Marseille have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

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 Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Marseille

Marseille is terrific for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Marseille is a must-see party destination. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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 Marseille Better for Beaches?

Killarney
Marseille

Marseille is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Killarney is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Marseille. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Killarney is not a beach destination.


Is Killarney or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Killarney
Marseille

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

Marseille has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Is Killarney or Marseille Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Marseille

Killarney is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Marseille?

Killarney
Marseille

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

Marseille is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Killarney or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Killarney
Marseille

Marseille is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Killarney does not offer Christmas markets.

Marseille is a nice place to see Christmas markets. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Killarney does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Killarney or Marseille Better for Families?

Killarney
Marseille

Killarney is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Killarney. 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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Killarney or Marseille Better for Couples?

Killarney
Marseille

Both Killarney and Marseille 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.

Marseille is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.


Is Killarney or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Marseille

Killarney and Marseille 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 Marseille. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Killarney or Marseille Better for Students?

Killarney
Marseille

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

Students come from all over to stay in Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Killarney is not popular with students.

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

Killarney
Marseille

Marseille is a city 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 Marseille, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

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


Is Killarney or Marseille a more walkable city?

Killarney
Marseille

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

Marseille is very walkable. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore 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 Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Killarney and Marseille. In our opinion, Marseille has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Marseille than Killarney. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Killarney or Marseille?

You'll find food and museums around the town of Killarney. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint city of Marseille. 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 Marseille?

You'll find museums and food around the local destination of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Marseille. 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 Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the natural town of Killarney. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic city of Marseille. 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 Marseille?

Killarney 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.

Marseille 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 Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Marseille 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 Marseille is €148. 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 Marseille in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Marseille 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Marseille 142
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Marseille

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or Marseille? 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 Marseille


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 Marseille Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Marseille 28

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Marseille

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Marseille:


  • Metro Pass
    3.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marseille

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

  • “Airport-Marseille Center Transfers: Luxury and Comfort VTC.”: $87
  • Airport Marseille Transfer to Marseille Old Port: $91
  • Aix en Provence-Transfer from or to Marseille Airport: $102
  • Arles-Transfer From or To Airport MARSEILLE: $218
  • Arrival Private Transfer Marseille Airport MRS to Marseille city or Port by Van: $101
  • Arrival Transfer: MRS Airport to Marseille in Business Car: $109
  • Cannes Private Transfer to Marseille Airport: $642
  • Departure Private Transfer Marseille city or Port to Marseile Airport MRS by Van: $101
  • Departure Private Transfer from Marseille city to Marseille Cruise Port by Van: $101
  • Departure Transfer: Marseille to MRS Airport in Business Car: $109
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Marseille Hotel or Address): $215
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to (MPCT) Marseille Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Marseille?

Prices for flights to both Marseille 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
    Marseille 42

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

Typical Food Prices in Marseille

For Marseille, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Orangina
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marseille

For Marseille, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Web-cooking workshop / French cuisine or French pastry: $35
  • No Diet Club - Unique food tour in Marseille! (Cours Julien): $63
  • Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $74
  • Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $86
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $86
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $93
  • Sunset Apéro Food tour: $95
  • Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $97
  • Marseille Sunset Apéro Food tour: $97
  • Evening Food Tour with Tastings: $102
  • Sunset Sailing Dinner in the Frioul Archipelago: $102
  • Marseille Miam Miam Food tour: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    Marseille 38

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 Marseille

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Marseille:Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Marseille Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Marseille Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-guided Like a Local Highlights Day Tour: $9.52
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Game & Sightseeing: $9.84
  • Panier District Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Humorous and Informative Tour of the Historic Center of La Ciotat: $11
  • Mucem Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    Marseille 27

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 Marseille

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Marseille:

  • Marseille Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $21
  • Marseille Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $22
  • Marseille Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $43
  • New Year's Eve Bar Crawl Marseille France: $96
  • Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Bandol and Cassis: Full Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $143
  • Luberon: Full-Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $143
  • Full-day Wine Tour around Bandol & Cassis from Marseille: $146
  • Full-Day Wine Tour around Luberon from Marseille: $146
  • Côtes du Rhône Wine tour: Avignon, Palace of the Popes: $164
  • Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour: $164
  • Marseille Shore Excursion - Full Day Wine Tour in Provence: $164


When comparing the travel costs between Killarney and Marseille, we can see that Killarney is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Killarney or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Marseille, 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 Marseille?

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 Marseille in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Marseille. Most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Marseille because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Killarney is generally much colder than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 15°C (59°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. In the summer, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in July than Marseille. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    Marseille 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Marseille in the Autumn?

Both Marseille and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

Killarney is cooler than Marseille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during autumn. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. In October, Killarney usually receives more rain than Marseille. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    Marseille 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Marseille in the Winter?

Both Marseille and Killarney during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Killarney this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Killarney is around the same temperature as Marseille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Killarney in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Marseille averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. Killarney usually gets more rain in January than Marseille. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Killarney or Marseille in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Marseille. Many travelers come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Marseille in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Killarney is generally cooler than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 9°C (48°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Killarney usually receives more rain than Marseille. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    Marseille 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Marseille and Killarney

Killarney Marseille
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)