A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Loch Lomond National Park vs. Killarney for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Loch Lomond National Park

Loch Lomond National Park is a scenic, serene, and peaceful national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking.

Killarney

Killarney is a local, natural, and peaceful town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Loch Lomond National Park and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Killarney than Loch Lomond National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Killarney is more touristy than Loch Lomond National Park and is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Also, Killarney is famous for Killarney National Park. Loch Lomond National Park is well known for becoming the first designated national park in Scotland in 2002.

How is Loch Lomond National Park different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

Killarney is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

Killarney is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Killarney is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find some traditional Scottish food to sample but in general for the best food, head to one of the nicer hotels in the area.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

Killarney is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

Killarney is a great town for hiking. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Killarney for the hiking trails. 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.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some nice hiking trails. You can choose from relaxing walks or more strenuous hikes and options run along the shoreline or into the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the more popular hikes in the area include Ben Lomond, Conic Hill, and Callander Crags.


Is Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney Better for Families?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Killarney are great to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Loch Lomond National Park. You'll find a wide range of diverse activities for kids around the park. They can explore the maze at the Lodge Forest Visitor Center, get up close with animals at Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or Loch Lomond Pony Trekking, or have an adventure at Doune Castle. Other highlights for the kids include Wellsfield Farm and the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer.

Killarney is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney Better for Couples?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Killarney are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Loch Lomond National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are many waterfront accommodation options that make for a beautiful and peaceful couples retreat. The nature and serenity is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all.

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

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

For backpackers, both Loch Lomond National Park and Killarney are notable places to visit.

Loch Lomond National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are some camping options available for backpackers and those who want to experience nature in its fullest.

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

Loch Lomond National Park and Killarney both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Loch Lomond National Park. You can reach the park by train, but transportation option within the area are generally limited.

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

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney a more walkable city?

Loch Lomond National Park
Killarney

Killarney is mediocre for its ease of walking around. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

Killarney is not a very walkable town. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Loch Lomond National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Loch Lomond National Park?

How long in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Loch Lomond National Park and Killarney. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Loch Lomond National Park than in Killarney. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Loch Lomond National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Killarney.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Killarney than Loch Lomond 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 Killarney.


  • How many days in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Loch Lomond National Park 2-4 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney?

You'll find around the national park of Loch Lomond National Park. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the natural town of Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney?

You'll find around the scenic destination of Loch Lomond National Park. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the serene national park of Loch Lomond National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Killarney is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney?

Loch Lomond National Park 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. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Loch Lomond National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Loch Lomond National Park is £61, 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 Loch Lomond National Park and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Loch Lomond National Park £31
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Loch Lomond National Park £62
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Loch Lomond National Park and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park


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: Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Loch Lomond National Park £20
    Killarney £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Loch Lomond National Park or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Loch Lomond 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
    Loch Lomond National Park £15
    Killarney £39

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.
    Loch Lomond National Park £16
    Killarney £16

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park: $38
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Bus & Boat Tour: $63
  • Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour (Jaunting Cart Paid Separately) : $63
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Day Tour: $39
  • From Portmagee & Skellig Ring Full-Day Tour: $75
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach: $65
  • Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour: $59
  • Gap of Dunloe Day Tour and Boat Ride from Killarney: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Loch Lomond National Park £3.93
    Killarney £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


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

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