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

Should you visit Munich or Kinsale?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Kinsale, 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 high energy, multicultural, and economically thriving city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a quaint, picturesque, and colorful seaside town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Munich and Kinsale: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
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 Kinsale?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich. Although Munich and Kinsale are both popular with visitors, Munich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Munich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kinsale is known for its food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace. Kinsale is popular for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks.

How is Munich different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is great for its historical sights. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Munich. 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 Kinsale. In addition to the colorful old town, you can check out Charles Fort, James Fort, and Old Head Signal Tower. The town is filled with history and many unique landmarks that are worth exploring.


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

Munich
Kinsale

Kinsale is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Kinsale is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Munich or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination 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.

Most people don't head to Kinsale specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

Is Munich or Kinsale Better for Music?

Munich
Kinsale

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

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Kinsale is not a live music destination.


Is Munich or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Munich
Kinsale

Kinsale is a seaside town with a few options for the beach. However, Munich is not a beach destination.

The beach in Kinsale is worth checking out. You'll find a number of beaches within about 20 minutes of town. The closest is Kinsale Beach, which is about 3 kilometers from the center of town. For a more peaceful setting, head out of town and check out Sandycove Beach, Garrylucas Blue Flag Beach, and Coolmain Beach.

Munich is not a beach destination.

Is Munich or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Munich
Kinsale

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

Many visitors go to Kinsale to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with brightly colored houses, and it offers a unique setting that's different from many of Europe's more standard old towns.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is Munich or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Munich
Kinsale

Kinsale is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Munich is not a hiking destination.

Kinsale has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Munich is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Kinsale?

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Munich draws large crowds to its stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to go shopping. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.

Is Munich or Kinsale Better for Families?

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Munich is very family-friendly. 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.

Kinsale is a family-friendly place to visit. If your kids need a break from the tourist circuit, there are a couple of playgrounds and outdoor centers around town. There's also one hour pony treks available at the Kinsale Equestrian Centre.

Is Munich or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is great for its romantic activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for couples.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Kinsale is a good city for couples to visit. From coastal walks to quaint streets, there are many picturesque places that a couple can explore. The town also has an impressive restaurant scene where couples can enjoy a great meal.


Is Munich or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Munich is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.

Is Munich or Kinsale Better for Students?

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale is not popular with students.

Munich is a very popular city for students. 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.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

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

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.


Is Munich or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Munich
Kinsale

Munich is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its ease of walking around.

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

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable city. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Munich?

How long in Munich or Kinsale?

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

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

One day in Munich or Kinsale?

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kinsale might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Kinsale?

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer.

Kinsale is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Kinsale?

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kinsale. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Munich. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Kinsale is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside 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 Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.


Which place is cheaper, Kinsale 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 Kinsale is €129. 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 Kinsale in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich 89
    Kinsale 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich 178
    Kinsale 148
Compare Hotels in Munich and Kinsale

Looking for a hotel in Munich or Kinsale? 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 Kinsale


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 Kinsale Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich 19
    Kinsale 17
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:

  • Private transfer from Munich to Vienna: $930
  • Private transfer from Munich to Prague: $706
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer from/to Munich airport: $292
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 3h on Eagle's Nest: $284
  • Private Car from Munich to Prague: Transfer with 2h Sightseeing: $284
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing with Local Driver: $279
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 4h of Sightseeing: $272
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Nuremberg with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Salzburg to Munich Transfer: $267
  • Transfer Munich to Kaprun,Zell am See,Flachau,Stubai,Kitzbuhel,Innsbruck & Other: $259
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 2 hours for sightseeing: $257
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Passau, 2 Hour Stop in Dachau: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Munich or Kinsale?

Prices for flights to both Kinsale 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
    Kinsale 46
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
    Kinsale 5.00
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:

  • 2 Hours VIP Private Segway Tour: $91
  • 2-hour Private Walking Tour in Munich: $214
  • 2-hour city tour by bike in Munich to the hotspots of the Isar metropolis: $35
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $210
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $211
  • A Tour inside Munich's Justizpalast: $24
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $202
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $207
  • Andechs Monastery Beer Hike Food Experience Private Tour (departs Munich): $208
  • Art & Heritage: Private Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $202
  • Art & Heritage: Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $395
  • Bad Tölz Private Guided Walking Tour: $220

Tours and Activities in Kinsale

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kinsale.

  • Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour Cobh: $21
  • Visit 16 Sites Key Historical Sites And Experience Cobh Rebel Tours: $27
  • Cobh Evening Ghost Tour: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich 37
    Kinsale 16
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 Kinsale

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

  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Cork: Blarney Castle & Jameson Distillery: $147


When comparing the travel costs between Munich and Kinsale, 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 Kinsale Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Munich or Kinsale?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Munich and Kinsale, 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 Kinsale?

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 Munich or Kinsale in the Summer?

Both Kinsale and Munich during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kinsale for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Munich. In the summer, Munich often gets more sunshine than Kinsale. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets more rain in July than Kinsale. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Munich or Kinsale in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Kinsale. Many travelers come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Munich usually receives more sunshine than Kinsale during autumn. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Munich usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Munich or Kinsale in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Munich as well as Kinsale. Many visitors come to Munich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kinsale for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Munich can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Munich is much colder than Kinsale. Typically, the winter temperatures in Munich in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Kinsale averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Munich often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kinsale. Munich usually gets less rain in January than Kinsale. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Munich -1°C (31°F) 
    Kinsale 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Munich or Kinsale in the Spring?

Both Kinsale and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Munich for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Munich is generally a little warmer than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (53°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Munich usually receives more sunshine than Kinsale during spring. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Munich usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Munich 11°C (53°F) 
    Kinsale 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Munich

Munich Kinsale
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in)