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

Should you visit Killarney or Toulon?

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 Toulon 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 gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Toulon

Toulon is a real world, industrial, and authentic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Killarney and Toulon: 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 scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Killarney or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toulon. Although Killarney and Toulon are both popular with visitors, Toulon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Toulon is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Killarney is known for its hiking and small town charm. Killarney is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Toulon is popular for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is Killarney different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Killarney
Toulon

Both Killarney and Toulon have good 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.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.


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

Killarney
Toulon

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Killarney and Toulon.

Killarney offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Killarney or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Toulon

Toulon is a port city with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Toulon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

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 Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Killarney
Toulon

Toulon is a port city with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Killarney is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Toulon has a few snorkeling spots. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Killarney is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Killarney or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Killarney
Toulon

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Toulon. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Killarney is not a beach destination.

Is Killarney or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Killarney
Toulon

Toulon is a port city with a few options for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Toulon is a good place to visit the old town. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Is Killarney or Toulon Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Toulon

Killarney is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Toulon?

Killarney
Toulon

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

Toulon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Killarney or Toulon Better for Families?

Killarney
Toulon

Killarney is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Toulon is a family-friendly town. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Killarney or Toulon Better for Couples?

Killarney
Toulon

Killarney is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Killarney is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.


Is Killarney or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Toulon

Killarney and Toulon are good 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 Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

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

Killarney
Toulon

Toulon is a port 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 Toulon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

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

Is Killarney or Toulon a more walkable city?

Killarney
Toulon

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

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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 Toulon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Toulon?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Killarney or Toulon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Killarney 2-3 
    Toulon 1-2

One day in Killarney or Toulon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Killarney or Toulon?

Killarney is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the industrial destination of Toulon. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Killarney or Toulon?

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. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic port city of Toulon. 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 Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the local destination of Killarney. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Toulon 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulon 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 Toulon is €119. 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 Toulon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Toulon 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Toulon 158
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Toulon

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or Toulon? 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 Toulon


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 Toulon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Toulon 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53
  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282
  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Toulon:

  • Private Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille city Hotels: $117
  • Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille Provence Airport: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Toulon?

Prices for flights to both Toulon 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
    Toulon 30

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulon

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Toulon.

  • Culinary Heritage Guided Walking Food Tour: $102
  • Toulon Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    Toulon 13

Tours and Activities in Killarney

Here are a few actual costs in Killarney for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Killarney Hop - On, Hop - Off Tour: $16
  • Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall: $22
  • Guided Boat Tour to Innisfallen Island: $22
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on theTralee to Fenit Greenway: $27
  • Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney - Scenic Tour (Minimum 4 People - 1 way).: $33
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney : $36
  • Killarney Carriage Tours National Park and Lakes: $37

Tours and Activities in Toulon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Toulon are as follows:

  • Little Train Ticket: $9.62
  • Provence Abbey of Thoronet Entrance Ticket: $9.81
  • Guided Tour in Port & Old City: $55
  • Private Heritage Walking Tour in Toulon: $178
  • Ile de Porquerolles: VIP tour et déjeuner Fondation Carmignac: $217
  • Toulon Private Tour: $278

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    Toulon 14

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 Toulon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toulon:

  • Cellar Visit & Bandol Wine Tasting (in French): $13
  • Horse riding in the vineyards of Ramatuelle + wine tasting: $97


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

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


Which is Bigger, Killarney or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Toulon. Many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Killarney is much colder than Toulon in the summer. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during summer. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Killarney usually receives more rain than Toulon. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Killarney or Toulon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Toulon. Most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Toulon because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Killarney is cooler than Toulon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Killarney in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Toulon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. In the autumn, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Killarney usually gets more rain in October than Toulon. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Killarney or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

In January, Killarney is generally around the same temperature as Toulon. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 7°C (44°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during winter. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. In January, Killarney usually receives more rain than Toulon. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Killarney or Toulon in the Spring?

Both Toulon and Killarney during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Killarney is cooler than Toulon in the spring. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in April than Toulon. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Toulon and Killarney

Killarney Toulon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 13°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)