A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Dublin for Nightlife, Attractions, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a cultural, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dublin

Dublin is a laid-back, friendly, and welcoming 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.

Lucerne and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Dublin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dublin than Lucerne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dublin is more popular for its nightlife and music, while Lucerne is known for its impressive beauty. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. 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 Lucerne different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lucerne or Dublin?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Dublin and Lucerne.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Dublin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Is the Food Better in Lucerne or Dublin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Lucerne and Dublin offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Lucerne is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Dublin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Lucerne or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Dublin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Lucerne or Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is great for its music scene. However, Lucerne is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Dublin draws a good crowd. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Lucerne is not a live music destination.

Is Lucerne or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Lucerne and Dublin.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Dublin?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lucerne and Dublin both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Dublin is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Is Lucerne or Dublin Better for Families?

Dublin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dublin. 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Lucerne or Dublin Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Dublin both great destinations for a couple.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Dublin is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Lucerne or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Dublin Better for Students?

Dublin is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Lucerne or Dublin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne and Dublin both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

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

Is Lucerne or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

For even more information, also check out Is Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Dublin?

In either Lucerne or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dublin than Lucerne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dublin.

Families should spend more time in Dublin than Lucerne. 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 Lucerne. 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 Lucerne 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.

One day in Lucerne or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Dublin, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Lucerne or Dublin?

Lucerne 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.

In Dublin, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Dublin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Lucerne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Dublin. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Dublin, 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Dublin in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Dublin. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities 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, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 21°C (70°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. In the summer, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Dublin. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Dublin in the Autumn?

Both Dublin and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, 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.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Dublin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Dublin fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dublin. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lucerne or Dublin in the Winter?

Both Dublin and Lucerne during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. In the winter, Lucerne is much colder than Dublin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lucerne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Dublin averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in January than Dublin. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Dublin in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Dublin. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dublin for the activities around the city.

In April, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 12°C (53°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Dublin. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Lucerne