A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Liverpool vs. Kilkenny for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Liverpool or Kilkenny?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Liverpool and Kilkenny 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.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a fun-filled, diverse, and historic port city. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Liverpool and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Kilkenny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Liverpool than Kilkenny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Liverpool is better known for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Kilkenny is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Liverpool is well known for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." Also, Liverpool is famous for The Liverpool Cathedral. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Liverpool different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Liverpool or Kilkenny?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kilkenny. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Liverpool. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.


Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Liverpool is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Kilkenny is not a theatre destination.

Liverpool has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Kilkenny is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Liverpool or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kilkenny. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Liverpool may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a diversity of flavors that are influenced by the city's international population. There are also several famous local dishes including scouse (a meat stew), toad in the hole (a giant yorkie stuffed with British sausages) and wet nelly (a dessert).

Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Liverpool is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Liverpool know how to have a good time. The nightlife is fun and diverse Head to the waterfront for comedy clubs or the Ropewalks and Seel Street if you want a swanky experience. Cavern Quarter is the place to go for an all night party.

If you're looking for night time activities Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.


Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for Music?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Liverpool is terrific for its live music scene. However, Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Liverpool Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well known for its old town. However, Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Kilkenny is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Kilkenny?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Liverpool is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Liverpool is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Liverpool ONE for the area's best shopping. This is the largest open-air shopping center in the UK and it's filled with a mix of name brands and independent vendors.

Kilkenny has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.


Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Both Liverpool and Kilkenny are superb to visit with kids.

Liverpool is a very kid-friendly port city. One of the most popular activities for families is Pleasureland, an amuseument park with rides that are fun for young kids. The city also has many museums and play spaces that are great for families.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kilkenny. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Kilkenny frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.

Liverpool is a good port city for couples to visit. The city is fun, and the best way to enjoy a romantic getaway is to find a fun or unique activity that you can enjoy together. Going dancing, dining out, or seeing a show are all fun activities in the area.

Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Liverpool and Kilkenny are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Liverpool is a good port city to visit for backpackers. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.


Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for Students?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Liverpool is a great destination for students. However, Kilkenny is not popular with students.

Liverpool is very popular with students. The city is diverse, affordable, and offers an excellent academic environment. International students will fill welcomed and enjoy a fun city with a lot to offer.

Kilkenny is not popular with students.

Is Liverpool or Kilkenny Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Liverpool and Kilkenny.

You'll find some public transit in Liverpool, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

While Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.

Is Liverpool or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Kilkenny

Liverpool and Kilkenny both are superb when exploring on foot.

Liverpool is a very walkable port city.

Kilkenny is a very walkable destination. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Liverpool Worth Visiting? and Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Liverpool or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Liverpool than Kilkenny because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Liverpool, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kilkenny.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Liverpool than Kilkenny 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 Liverpool.


  • How many days in Liverpool or Kilkenny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Liverpool 2-3 
    Kilkenny 1-2

One day in Liverpool or Kilkenny?

The port city of Liverpool offers theater and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Kilkenny. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kilkenny has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Liverpool or Kilkenny?

Liverpool is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Liverpool, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the medieval destination of Kilkenny. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Liverpool or Kilkenny?

Liverpool is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the medieval town of Kilkenny. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Liverpool or Kilkenny?

Liverpool is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Kilkenny is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Kilkenny or Liverpool?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Liverpool is £161, while the average daily cost in Kilkenny is £76. 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 Liverpool and Kilkenny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Kilkenny £38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Kilkenny £76
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Kilkenny

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Kilkenny? 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 Liverpool


Hotels in Kilkenny


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: Liverpool Hotel Prices and Kilkenny Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Kilkenny £18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Liverpool

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


  • City bike hire Liverpool
    £6.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Liverpool

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Liverpool:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Liverpool Airport LPL to Liverpool in Business Car: $65
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Liverpool Airport LPL to Liverpool in Luxury Van: $79
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Liverpool Airport LPL in Business Car: $65
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Manchester Airport MAN in Business Car: $121
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Manchester Airport MAN in Luxury Van: $195
  • Liverpool Airport (LPL) to Liverpool Port - Round-Trip Transfer: $83
  • Liverpool Airport (LPL): Transfer to Liverpool Accommodation: $148
  • Liverpool Airport (LPL): Transfer to Liverpool Cruise Port: $148
  • Liverpool Airport Arrival Private Transfer to Accommodation: $41
  • Liverpool Airport Transfer 1 to 10 Passengers One Way Transfer : $44
  • Liverpool Cruise Port to Liverpool Airport (LPL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Liverpool Cruise Port to Liverpool hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Kilkenny?

Prices for flights to both Kilkenny and Liverpool 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
    Liverpool £59
    Kilkenny £25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Liverpool

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

  • Brewery Bus Tour with Beer Tasting and Pizza: $81
  • Brewery bus tour, 5 breweries, 12 beers, 1 pizza, 1 bus: $89
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Liverpool £36
    Kilkenny £13

Tours and Activities in Liverpool

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Liverpool Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $3.27
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Escape Game and Tour: $4.28
  • A Hope Street Stroll: A self-guided tour from the Metropolitan Cathedral to LIPA: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Liverpool History and Culture: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the River Mersey: $6.99
  • Liverpool’s Hidden Histories: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Discover Liverpool’s Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.56
  • Discover Liverpool’s Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.59
  • Albert Docks Sightseeing Cruise with Commentary: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Kilkenny

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

  • Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.81
  • Historical Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Kilkenny city tour in German.: $13
  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour: $13
  • Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views: $16
  • Knight For Hire Tour: $16
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • The Witch Tour: $21
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • Smithwick's Beer Experience: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Kilkenny £10

Sample the Local Flavors in Liverpool

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

  • FunnyBoyz Liverpool - Drag Shows, Tributes, Brunches & Bar Crawls: $19
  • Liverpool Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $50
  • Pirate Pub Crawl & Boat Tour: $56

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

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

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158


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

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


Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Kilkenny?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Kilkenny, 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 Liverpool or Kilkenny?

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 Liverpool or Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Liverpool in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the summer. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Liverpool usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Liverpool usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F) 
    Kilkenny 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Liverpool during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Liverpool for the shopping scene and the music scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Liverpool is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Liverpool in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Liverpool often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kilkenny. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F) 
    Kilkenny 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Kilkenny. The winter months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

In January, Liverpool is generally around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 5°C (42°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny during winter. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F) 
    Kilkenny 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Kilkenny. Additionally, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the spring. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Liverpool often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kilkenny. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Liverpool 8°C (47°F) 
    Kilkenny 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Liverpool

Liverpool Kilkenny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in) 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)