A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Killarney vs. Saint-Etienne for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

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 Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Killarney and Saint-Etienne: 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 nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Killarney. Although Killarney and Saint-Etienne are popular destinations, Killarney has more sights and attractions for tourists. Killarney is very popular for its food, hiking, and small town charm, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its nightlife and shopping. Killarney is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. It is also well known for Killarney National Park. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Killarney different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Both Killarney and Saint-Etienne have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Killarney is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Saint-Etienne offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.


Is the Food Better in Killarney or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Killarney is a good destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Saint-Etienne may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

Is Killarney or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Saint-Etienne has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in 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 Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Killarney is great for hiking. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for hiking. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.


Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a city with a few options for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Killarney or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Killarney is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly place to visit. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.

Is Killarney or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Killarney is great for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for couples.

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.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.


Is Killarney or Saint-Etienne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Killarney is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for 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.

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

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

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are tram and bus options available in town.

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

Is Killarney or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Killarney
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Saint-Etienne is somewhat walkable. There are several walkable areas in the city.

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 Saint-Etienne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint-Etienne or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Killarney or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Killarney than Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne.

Families should spend more time in Killarney than Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Killarney 2-3 
    Saint-Etienne 1-2

One day in Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the natural destination of Killarney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find nightlife and museums around the city of Saint-Etienne. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint-Etienne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the peaceful destination of Killarney. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the authentic city of Saint-Etienne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find museums and food around the town of Killarney. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Saint-Etienne is a popular choice for travelers. 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, Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne is €108. 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 Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or Saint-Etienne? 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 Saint-Etienne


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Saint-Etienne 44

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne 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
    Saint-Etienne 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
    Saint-Etienne 25

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    Saint-Etienne 10

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

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


Which is Bigger, Killarney or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Saint-Etienne, 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 Saint-Etienne?

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 Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

Both Saint-Etienne and Killarney during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Killarney this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Saint-Etienne, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in July than Saint-Etienne. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Saint-Etienne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Saint-Etienne. Many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 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 Saint-Etienne. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Saint-Etienne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Saint-Etienne. Many visitors come to Killarney in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saint-Etienne can be very cold during winter. Killarney is much warmer than Saint-Etienne in the winter. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the winter. Killarney usually gets more rain in January than Saint-Etienne. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Killarney 7°C (44°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Saint-Etienne in the Spring?

Both Saint-Etienne and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the natural beauty.

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

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Etienne during spring. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Killarney usually receives more rain than Saint-Etienne. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Killarney

Killarney Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)