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

Should you visit Liverpool or Killarney?

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 Killarney 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 historic, fun-filled, and diverse port city. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Killarney

Killarney is a charming, local, and natural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Liverpool and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
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


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Killarney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Liverpool. Although Liverpool and Killarney are popular destinations, Liverpool has more sights and attractions for tourists. Liverpool is very popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Killarney attracts visitors for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Killarney is more touristy than Liverpool and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Liverpool is famous for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." It is also well known for The Liverpool Cathedral.

How is Liverpool different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Liverpool
Killarney

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Liverpool and Killarney.

Liverpool offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Killarney. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.


Is Liverpool or Killarney Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Killarney

Liverpool is well known for theatre. However, Killarney is not a theatre destination.

Liverpool attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Killarney is not a theatre destination.

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

Liverpool
Killarney

Killarney is a town with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Killarney. 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.

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 Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Killarney

Liverpool is well known for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Liverpool is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

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 Liverpool or Killarney Better for Music?

Liverpool
Killarney

Liverpool is terrific for live music. However, Killarney is not a live music destination.

Liverpool is a world class music destination. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Killarney is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Liverpool
Killarney

Killarney is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Liverpool is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Killarney. 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.

Liverpool is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Killarney?

Liverpool
Killarney

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

Liverpool is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Liverpool or Killarney Better for Families?

Liverpool
Killarney

Both Liverpool and Killarney are great 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 Killarney. 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.

Is Liverpool or Killarney Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Killarney

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

Couples visit Killarney frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

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 Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Killarney

Liverpool and Killarney are nice 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 Killarney. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.


Is Liverpool or Killarney Better for Students?

Liverpool
Killarney

Liverpool is well known for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Liverpool. 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.

Killarney is not popular with students.

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

Liverpool
Killarney

Liverpool 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 Liverpool, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

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

Is Liverpool or Killarney a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Killarney

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

Liverpool is very walkable.

Killarney is not a very walkable port city. 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 Liverpool Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Liverpool and Killarney. In our opinion, Liverpool has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Liverpool than Killarney. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


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

One day in Liverpool or Killarney?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Liverpool. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Liverpool or Killarney?

You'll find live music and shopping around the historic destination of Liverpool. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the charming destination of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled port city of Liverpool. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the local town of Killarney. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Liverpool or Killarney?

Liverpool 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.

Killarney is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney 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 Killarney is £143. 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 Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Killarney? 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 Killarney


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 Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Killarney £17
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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney 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
    Killarney £39

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

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

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Liverpool £36
    Killarney £16

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 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Killarney £11

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 Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


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


Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Killarney?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Killarney, 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 Killarney?

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 Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

In July, Liverpool is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 15°C (60°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Liverpool usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during summer. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Killarney. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Killarney in the Autumn?

Both Killarney and Liverpool during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the music scene are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Killarney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Liverpool often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Liverpool usually gets less rain in October than Killarney. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Killarney in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Killarney. Many travelers come to Liverpool for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Liverpool is cooler than Killarney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Liverpool in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Killarney averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Liverpool usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during winter. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Killarney. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Killarney in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Killarney. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Liverpool is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 8°C (47°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Liverpool often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets less rain in April than Killarney. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Liverpool 8°C (47°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Liverpool

Liverpool Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)