A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kinsale vs. Bordeaux for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kinsale and Bordeaux 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.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a quaint, picturesque, and colorful seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kinsale and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Kinsale, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bordeaux is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kinsale is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Bordeaux is more touristy than Kinsale and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Kinsale is well known for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks.

How is Kinsale different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bordeaux and Kinsale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Kinsale and Bordeaux.

Kinsale offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the colorful old town, you can check out Charles Fort, James Fort, and Old Head Signal Tower. The town is filled with history and many unique landmarks that are worth exploring.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.


Is the Food Better in Kinsale or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Kinsale and Bordeaux can be difficult as they are each terrific in their own way.

Many restaurants in Kinsale have been singled out for their culinary prowess. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

Eat your way through Bordeaux, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Most people don't head to Kinsale specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Kinsale is a seaside town with a few options for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Kinsale. You'll find a number of beaches within about 20 minutes of town. The closest is Kinsale Beach, which is about 3 kilometers from the center of town. For a more peaceful setting, head out of town and check out Sandycove Beach, Garrylucas Blue Flag Beach, and Coolmain Beach.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.


Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Kinsale is a great destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kinsale. The old town is filled with brightly colored houses, and it offers a unique setting that's different from many of Europe's more standard old towns.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for Hiking?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Kinsale is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Kinsale is a good destination for hiking. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its shopping areas.

Bordeaux is well-known for its shopping. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to go shopping. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.


Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Both Kinsale and Bordeaux are notable to visit with kids.

Kinsale offers lots of family activities. If your kids need a break from the tourist circuit, there are a couple of playgrounds and outdoor centers around town. There's also one hour pony treks available at the Kinsale Equestrian Centre.

Bordeaux is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is great for its romantic activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for couples.

Bordeaux is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Kinsale is a good seaside town for couples to visit. From coastal walks to quaint streets, there are many picturesque places that a couple can explore. The town also has an impressive restaurant scene where couples can enjoy a great meal.

Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

For backpackers, both Kinsale and Bordeaux are notable places to visit.

Kinsale is a good seaside town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.


Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Bordeaux. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

Is Kinsale or Bordeaux Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Public transit is generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.

Is Kinsale or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Kinsale
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its ease of walking around.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable seaside town. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Kinsale Worth Visiting? and Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Kinsale?

How long in Kinsale or Bordeaux?

In either Kinsale or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Kinsale because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kinsale, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bordeaux than Kinsale 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 Bordeaux.


  • How many days in Kinsale or Bordeaux? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kinsale 1-2 
    Bordeaux 2-5

One day in Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Kinsale is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Kinsale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this seaside town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kinsale, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Bordeaux, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer.

Five days in Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Kinsale is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Kinsale is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This seaside town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Bordeaux or Kinsale?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Kinsale is €129, while the average daily cost in Bordeaux is €118. 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 Kinsale and Bordeaux in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kinsale 74
    Bordeaux 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kinsale 148
    Bordeaux 126
Compare Hotels in Kinsale and Bordeaux

Looking for a hotel in Kinsale or Bordeaux? 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 Kinsale


Hotels in Bordeaux


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: Kinsale Hotel Prices and Bordeaux Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kinsale 17
    Bordeaux 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Airport to Lège-Cap-Ferret Transfer in Business Sedan: $273
  • Airport to Bordeaux Premium Class Private Transfer: $273
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Bordeaux City: $165
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $147
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $115
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $108
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Car: $97
  • Transfer Airport, Hotel, Station and others places: $96

Is it cheaper to fly into Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Prices for flights to both Bordeaux and Kinsale 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
    Kinsale 46
    Bordeaux 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

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

  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $63
  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $63
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $64
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $74
  • Sweet Specialties Tasting Bakeries Food Tour: $82
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour by a local guide: $84
  • Bordeaux Organic Food Tour - French Apéro Style: $93
  • Bordeaux : unforgettable Food Tour by a local guide: $95
  • Private Bakery, Chocolate & Patisserie Food Tour: $95
  • Food Tour in Bordeaux : $97
  • Bordeaux Food Tour - Bakeries, Pastries, Chocolate and more!: $98
  • Bordeaux Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kinsale 5.00
    Bordeaux 7.89

Tours and Activities in Kinsale

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

  • Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour Cobh: $21
  • Visit 16 Sites Key Historical Sites And Experience Cobh Rebel Tours: $27
  • Cobh Evening Ghost Tour: $43

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

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

  • "Bordeaux by bicycle: a 3-hour tour immersive experience": $39
  • "Explore Saint-Émilion on e-Bikes: Small Group, Full-Day Tour": $196
  • 1-Hour Bordeaux Electric Scooter Tour: $27
  • 2 hours - Bordeaux Private tour with a native guide: $164
  • 4 Hours Gastronomic Tour in Bordeaux the Sandwiches of the World: $64
  • Aperitive guided cruise « Wine and Canelé »: $20
  • Blind Tasting: 5 Bordeaux Natural Wine + Cheese experience: $53
  • Bordeaux - Private Historic Walking Tour: $459
  • Bordeaux : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Bordeaux : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $75
  • Bordeaux Bike Tour - Private: $217
  • Bordeaux Christmas Market Tour: $307

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kinsale 16
    Bordeaux 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Kinsale

Also in Kinsale, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Cork: Blarney Castle & Jameson Distillery: $147

Sample the Local Flavors in Bordeaux

Also in Bordeaux, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine and Trade Museum Entry Ticket & Wine Tasting: $11
  • Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $11
  • Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $16
  • Wine Tasting Cruise: $22
  • Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $24
  • Bordeaux Pub Crawl: $25
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $27
  • Wine Tour and Tasting: $29
  • Unusual Wine Tasting Experience - Wood & Wine: $30
  • Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $32
  • Wine Country Vineyards Tour w/ Local Wine Tastings: $59
  • Bordeaux Vineyards Wine Tasting Half-Day Trip: $62


When comparing the travel costs between Kinsale and Bordeaux, we can see that Kinsale 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 Kinsale Expensive? and Is Bordeaux Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kinsale or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Kinsale and Bordeaux, 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 Kinsale or Bordeaux?

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 Kinsale or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kinsale as well as Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Kinsale for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Kinsale is cooler than Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Kinsale averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In the summer, Kinsale often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Kinsale gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Kinsale usually gets more rain in July than Bordeaux. Kinsale gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kinsale 16°C (60°F) 
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Kinsale or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Kinsale are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Kinsale in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Kinsale is cooler than Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kinsale in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Kinsale usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Kinsale gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kinsale usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Kinsale gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kinsale 11°C (52°F) 
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Kinsale or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Kinsale during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kinsale for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Kinsale is generally around the same temperature as Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Kinsale average around 6°C (43°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Kinsale often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Kinsale gets 60 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kinsale. Kinsale usually gets more rain in January than Bordeaux. Kinsale gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kinsale 6°C (43°F) 
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Kinsale or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kinsale and Bordeaux. The spring months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

Kinsale is cooler than Bordeaux in the spring. The daily temperature in Kinsale averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Kinsale usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Kinsale gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kinsale usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Kinsale gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kinsale 9°C (48°F) 
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Kinsale

Kinsale Bordeaux
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in) 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)


Related Articles for Kinsale
Related Articles for Bordeaux