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

Should you visit Munich or Kilkenny?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Kilkenny, 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich and Kilkenny: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Munich or Kilkenny?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich. Although Munich and Kilkenny are both popular with visitors, Munich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Munich is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kilkenny is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Munich is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace. Kilkenny is popular for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Munich different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Munich
Kilkenny

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Munich or Kilkenny.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Munich can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kilkenny. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.


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

Munich
Kilkenny

Both Munich and Kilkenny offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kilkenny. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Is Munich or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Munich is a must-see party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Is Munich or Kilkenny Better for Music?

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich is terrific for its live music scene. However, Kilkenny 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.

Kilkenny is not a live music destination.


Is Munich or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Munich
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Kilkenny to see the historical old town. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Kilkenny?

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Kilkenny has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Is Munich or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich and Kilkenny are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Kilkenny is a very family-friendly destination. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.


Is Munich or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich and Kilkenny are both excellent to visit as a couple.

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.

Kilkenny is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.

Is Munich or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich is terrific for backpackers. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Munich or Kilkenny Better for Students?

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich is terrific for students. However, Kilkenny is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Kilkenny is not popular with students.


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

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich is terrific for its public transit. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Munich can take you anywhere. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

While Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.

Is Munich or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Munich
Kilkenny

Munich and Kilkenny both are excellent 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.

Kilkenny is very walkable. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Munich?

How long in Munich or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Munich or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Munich than Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny.

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

Couples should spend more time in Munich than Kilkenny. 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 Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Munich 2-5 
    Kilkenny 1-2

One day in Munich or Kilkenny?

Munich is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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


A weekend in Munich or Kilkenny?

Munich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Munich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny?

Munich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Munich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kilkenny. 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.

A week in Munich or Kilkenny?

Munich is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the medieval destination of Kilkenny. This town 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.


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, Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny is €88. 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 Kilkenny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich 89
    Kilkenny 44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich 178
    Kilkenny 88
Compare Hotels in Munich and Kilkenny

Looking for a hotel in Munich or Kilkenny? 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 Kilkenny


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 and Kilkenny Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich 19
    Kilkenny 21
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 Kilkenny?

Prices for flights to both Kilkenny 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
    Kilkenny 29
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
    Kilkenny 15
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 Kilkenny

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

  • Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.81
  • Historical Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Kilkenny city tour in German.: $13
  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour: $13
  • Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views: $16
  • Knight For Hire Tour: $16
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • The Witch Tour: $21
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • Smithwick's Beer Experience: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich 37
    Kilkenny 12
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

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

Also in Kilkenny, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158


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

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


Which is Bigger, Munich or Kilkenny?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Munich and Kilkenny, 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 Munich or Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Munich for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Munich is generally a little warmer than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 20°C (68°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Munich. Munich usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Munich usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Munich 20°C (68°F) 
    Kilkenny 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Munich or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Munich during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Munich because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

Munich is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the autumn. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Munich often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in October than Kilkenny. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Munich 11°C (52°F) 
    Kilkenny 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Munich or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Kilkenny. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Munich in the winter. In the winter, Munich is much colder than Kilkenny. Typically, the winter temperatures in Munich in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Munich usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Munich -1°C (31°F) 
    Kilkenny 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Munich or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Munich as well as Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Munich for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Munich often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in April than Kilkenny. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Munich

Munich Kilkenny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)