A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Munich vs. Howth for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Munich or Howth?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Howth, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Howth

Howth is a beautiful, picturesque, and scenic fishing village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include hiking, museums, and food.

Munich and Howth: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Munich or Howth?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich. Although Munich and Howth are both popular with visitors, Munich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Munich is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Howth is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace. Howth is popular for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin.

How is Munich different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Munich or Howth?

Munich
Howth

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

Munich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.


Is the Food Better in Munich or Howth? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Munich
Howth

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Munich or Howth Better for Nightlife?

Munich
Howth

Munich is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Munich has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is Munich or Howth Better for Music?

Munich
Howth

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Howth is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Howth is not a live music destination.


Is Munich or Howth Better for Beaches?

Munich
Howth

Howth is well known for the beach. However, Munich is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Howth. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Munich is not a beach destination.

Is Munich or Howth Better for Hiking?

Munich
Howth

Howth is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Munich is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Howth?

Munich
Howth

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Munich make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Munich or Howth Better for Families?

Munich
Howth

Munich is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Munich is a very kid-friendly city. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Munich or Howth Better for Couples?

Munich
Howth

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

Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Howth is a good city for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Munich or Howth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich
Howth

Munich is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.


Is Munich or Howth Better for Students?

Munich
Howth

Munich is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Howth is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Howth is not popular with students.

Is Munich or Howth Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Munich
Howth

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Munich is top-notch. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

While Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Munich or Howth a more walkable city?

Munich
Howth

Munich and Howth both are very good when exploring on foot.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

Howth is very walkable. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.


For even more information, also check out Is Munich Worth Visiting? and Is Howth Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Howth or Munich?

How long in Munich or Howth?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Munich or Howth to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Munich than Howth because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 1-2 days is enough time in Howth.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich than Howth 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 Munich.


  • How many days in Munich or Howth? Ideal Length of Stay
    Munich 2-5 
    Howth 1-2

One day in Munich or Howth?

Each neighborhood in Munich has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Howth. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Munich or Howth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Howth 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 Munich or Howth?

Munich is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Munich has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Howth. 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 Munich or Howth?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the multicultural big city of Munich. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the picturesque destination of Howth. This fishing village 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Howth or Munich?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Munich is €148, while the average daily cost in Howth is €135. 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 Munich and Howth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich 89
    Howth 64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich 178
    Howth 128
Compare Hotels in Munich and Howth

Looking for a hotel in Munich or Howth? 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 Munich


Hotels in Howth


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: Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich 19
    Howth 41
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Munich Airport MUC to Munich in Luxury Car: $249
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Car: $74
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Van: $65
  • Arrival Transfer from Munich Train Station to Munich by Sedan: $60
  • Departure Private Transfer: Munich City to Munich Airport MUC in Luxury Car: $250
  • From Munich Airport to Nuremberg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $193
  • From Munich Airport to Salzburg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $208
  • Guided Nymphenburg Palace Tour with Transfers & skip the line.: $235
  • Mercedes Benz V-Class Airport Transfers: $158
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Arber Resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Arrival Transfer: $71
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Munich - Arrival Private Transfer: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Munich or Howth?

Prices for flights to both Howth and Munich 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
    Munich 27
    Howth 44
Typical Food Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Munich:


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Munich 29
    Howth 25
Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Munich Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Victuals Market Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.74
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • Guided tour through the Sudeten German Museum: $5.35
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.35
  • From Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $5.35
  • Munich through the Centuries: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-guided Walking Tour to River Isar Landmarks: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Interactive City Tour on Your Smartphone: $7.48

Tours and Activities in Howth

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

  • Dublin: Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich 37
    Howth 21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Munich:

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


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



When is the best time to visit Munich or Howth?

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 Munich or Howth in the Summer?

Both Howth and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Munich in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Howth for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Munich is generally a little warmer than Howth. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 20°C (68°F), and Howth fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Munich. Munich usually receives more sunshine than Howth during summer. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Munich usually receives more rain than Howth. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Howth receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Munich 20°C (68°F) 
    Howth 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Munich or Howth in the Autumn?

Both Howth and Munich during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Howth because of the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere.

Munich is around the same temperature as Howth in the autumn. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Howth fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Munich often gets more sunshine than Howth. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 97 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in October than Howth. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Howth receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Munich 11°C (52°F) 
    Howth 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Munich or Howth in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Howth. The winter months attract visitors to Munich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Howth this time of year.

The weather in Munich can be very cold. In the winter, Munich is much colder than Howth. Typically, the winter temperatures in Munich in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Howth averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than Howth during winter. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Munich usually receives less rain than Howth. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Howth receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Munich -1°C (31°F) 
    Howth 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Munich or Howth in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Munich as well as Howth. The activities around the city are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Howth for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Munich is generally a little warmer than Howth. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (53°F), and Howth fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Munich often gets more sunshine than Howth. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 157 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Howth. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Howth receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Munich 11°C (53°F) 
    Howth 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Howth and Munich

Munich Howth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)