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

Should you visit London or Killarney?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between London and Killarney can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a global, international, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

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.

London and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Killarney?

Visitors will usually find more to do in London than Killarney, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. London is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Killarney is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. London is more touristy than Killarney and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Killarney is well known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

Big Ben

How is London different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in London or Killarney?

London is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in London that are not to be missed. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Killarney offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Is London or Killarney Better for Theater?

London is terrific for theatre. However, Killarney is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in London that are not to be missed. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Killarney is not a theatre destination.

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

London is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is London or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

London is terrific for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

London is a must-see party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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 London or Killarney Better for Music?

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

London is a world class music destination. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Killarney is not a live music destination.

Is London or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Killarney is a great town for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

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.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Killarney?

London is terrific for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

London is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is London or Killarney Better for Christmas?

London is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Killarney does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, London is not to be missed. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Killarney does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Killarney Better for Christmas Markets?

London is terrific for its Christmas markets. However, Killarney does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in London are not to be missed. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Killarney does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Killarney Better for Families?

London is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

London is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Killarney is very family-friendly. 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 London or Killarney Better for Couples?

London is terrific for romance. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

London is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Killarney is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Is London or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is terrific for backpackers. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

London is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

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 London or Killarney Better for Students?

London is terrific for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

London is a very popular city for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

Killarney is not popular with students.

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

London is terrific for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

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

Is London or Killarney a more walkable city?

London is terrific for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around London on foot is easy. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

Killarney is not a very walkable 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 London Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or London?

How long in London or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both London and Killarney. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than in Killarney. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 2-3 days is enough time in Killarney.

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

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

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

One day in London or Killarney?

People visit London because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. 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.

A weekend in London or Killarney?

People visit London because there is so much to do. A weekend 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.

Killarney is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in London or Killarney?

People visit London because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in London or Killarney?

London is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in London, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the charming destination of Killarney. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or Killarney?

London has a larger population, and is about 1020 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of London 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 London or Killarney?

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 London or Killarney in the Summer?

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

In the summer, London is a little warmer than Killarney. Typically, the summer temperatures in London in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Killarney averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, London often gets more sunshine than Killarney. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in July than Killarney. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Killarney in the Autumn?

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

In October, London is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during autumn. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. In October, London usually receives less rain than Killarney. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit London or Killarney in the Winter?

Both Killarney and London during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine.

London can be very cold during winter. London is much colder than Killarney in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, London often gets more sunshine than Killarney. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. London usually gets less rain in January than Killarney. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Killarney in the Spring?

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

In the spring, London is around the same temperature as Killarney. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Killarney averages at about 9°C (48°F).

London usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney during spring. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, London usually receives less rain than Killarney. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Killarney and London