A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Dublin for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Dublin?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Dublin. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a unique, beautiful, and spectacular national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Dublin

Dublin is a welcoming, fun, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Lake District National Park and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Dublin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dublin. Although Lake District National Park and Dublin are both popular with visitors, Dublin has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dublin is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Dublin is popular for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also home to The Guinness Storehouse.

How is Lake District National Park different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dublin and Lake District National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Dublin?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Dublin is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Dublin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Lake District National Park is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lake District National Park. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Dublin is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People head to Dublin just to party. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for Music?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Dublin is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Dublin has diverse options. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Dublin is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dublin. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Lake District National Park is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Lake District National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Dublin?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Dublin is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Both Lake District National Park and Dublin are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Dublin is a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Lake District National Park and Dublin both great destinations for a couple.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Lake District National Park is terrific for backpackers. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.


Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Dublin is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Is Lake District National Park or Dublin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Dublin is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Dublin has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Dublin a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Dublin

Dublin is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Dublin. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Dublin?

In either Lake District National Park or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than Dublin because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dublin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than Lake District National Park 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 Dublin.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Dublin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Dublin 2-5

One day in Lake District National Park or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun destination of Dublin. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Dublin?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Dublin for a weekend. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the friendly destination of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Many people spend five days here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Lake District National Park or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the unique destination of Lake District National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Dublin, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Dublin or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Dublin is £123. 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 Lake District National Park and Dublin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Dublin £58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Dublin £116
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Dublin

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Dublin? 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 Lake District National Park


Hotels in Dublin


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: Dublin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Dublin £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dublin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Dublin:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    £13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dublin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dublin:

  • The Westin Hotel Dublin To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $167
  • The Marker Hotel Dublin To Dublin Airport To Private Chauffeur Transfer: $155
  • Shannon: Private Airport Arrival Transfer to Dublin: $615
  • Private Transfer: Dublin to Dublin Airport DUB in Luxury Van: $111
  • Private Transfer: Dublin to Dublin Airport DUB in Business Car: $103
  • Private Transfer from Navan to Belfast Airport (BFS): $272
  • Private Transfer from Dundalk to Belfast City Airport (BHD): $188
  • Private Transfer from Dundalk to Belfast Airport (BFS): $178
  • Private Transfer from Dun Laoghaire Port to Dublin Airport (DUB): $46
  • Private Transfer from Dublin city Center to Dublin airport One way Minivan: $159
  • Private Transfer from Dublin Airport to Belfast City Airport (BHD): $292
  • Private Transfer from Drogheda to Belfast City Airport (BHD): $261

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Dublin?

Prices for flights to both Dublin and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Dublin £42

Typical Food Prices in Dublin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dublin:


  • Lunch Lynam's Pub
    £3.38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dublin

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

  • Walking Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $29
  • Dublin 3-Course Dinner and Live Shows at The Irish House Party: $31
  • No Diet Club - Best Food Tour in Dublin !: $59
  • Dublin Irish Night Show, Dance and Traditional 3-Course Dinner: $60
  • Grand Canal Cruise with Dinner: $72
  • Delicious Walking Food Tour: $80
  • Delicious Dublin Food Tour: $82
  • Private Cooking Class in a Modern Home with Sea Views in Skerries, Dublin: $84
  • Howth Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Tour: $95
  • Private Market Tour and Irish Cooking Class in a Modern Skerries Home: $102
  • Irish Craic & Cuisine: Cooking Class & Dinner in Central Dublin: $106
  • Dublin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Dublin £21

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

Typical Entertainment Prices in Dublin

Here are a few typical costs in Dublin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Wild Wicklow Tour
    £22
  • Guinness Brewery for Two
    £23
  • St Pauls Cathedral
    £3.85
  • Dublin Writer's Museum
    £5.39

Tours and Activities in Dublin

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

  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Dublin's Docklands: $12
  • (Small Group) Cliffs of Moher and Castle Tour from Dublin: $141
  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Dublin:Dublin Highlights and Glendalough Day Trip: $119
  • 1-Hour Cocktail Masterclass Experience in Dublin: $49
  • 2-Day Northern Ireland Tour from Dublin Including Belfast and Giants Causeway: $217
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour from Dublin : $21
  • 2-Hours Indoor Challenge Adventure Experience in Ireland: $31
  • 2-Hours and 30 Minutes Historical Walking Tour in Dublin: $28
  • 3 Hour Tour Freemasons and Templars Secret Societies: $20
  • 3-Hour Drinks on Foot Dublin Walking Guided Tour: $30
  • 4-Day Grand Atlantic Rail Tour from Dublin: $1,173
  • 5-Day Tour of West Ireland: Blarney Stone & Cliffs of Moher: $1,451

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Dublin £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Dublin

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

  • Authentic Brewery Tour: $11
  • Generation Pub Crawl: $15
  • Dublin Epic Pub Crawl: Experience Dublin's pubs and nightlife: $15
  • "Dublin Delight Pub Expedition" Pub Crawl: $16
  • The Dublin Liberties Distillery: Tour with Whiskey Tasting: $18
  • Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $21
  • Skip the Line: Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour and Tasting in Dublin Ticket: $22
  • Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery Experience: $24
  • City Pub Crawl Experience: $24
  • Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery: Trilogy Experience: $24
  • Roe and Co Distillery Cocktail Workshop Experience: $27
  • Dublin Jameson Distillery Tour with Whiskey Tastings & Cocktail: $33


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Dublin, we can see that Dublin is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park 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 Dublin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dublin than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Dublin Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park or Dublin?

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 Lake District National Park or Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Lake District National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lake District National Park is generally around the same temperature as Dublin. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 15°C (59°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Dublin. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Dublin 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Dublin. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Dublin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Dublin fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Dublin during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Dublin. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Dublin 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Dublin. The winter months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

The weather in Lake District National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Lake District National Park is much colder than Dublin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lake District National Park in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Dublin averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Dublin. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Dublin. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Dublin 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dublin for the activities around the city.

In April, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 7°C (45°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Dublin during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Dublin. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Dublin 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dublin and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Dublin
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)