A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Cork for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

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

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

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a cultural, historical, and vibrant port city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cork

Cork is a energetic, cultural, and seaside city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cork than Newcastle upon Tyne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cork is better known for its big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its historical sights. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Cork is well known for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer. Also, Cork is famous for The Blarney Castle and Stone.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Cork?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Cork and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cork can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cork makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Cork is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne is notable for its historic old town. However, Cork does not have a historic old town.

Newcastle upon Tyne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Cork does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Cork is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cork. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork Better for Couples?

Cork is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cork makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cork. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork Better for Students?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork are superb destinations for students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Cork is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newcastle upon Tyne is notable for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne can move around easily with public transportation. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Newcastle upon Tyne on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Cork is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Cork Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cork or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork. In our opinion, Newcastle upon Tyne has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Cork. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cork.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cork than Newcastle upon Tyne. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cork that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Cork 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Cork, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Cork for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cork, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The destination of Cork offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

The high energy port city of Newcastle upon Tyne offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cork. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Cork. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Cork. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cork in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Cork. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Cork averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Cork. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 178 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Cork. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cork receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork in the Autumn?

Both Cork and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Cork for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Cork. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 10°C (49°F), and Cork fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Cork during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Cork. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Cork receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork in the Winter?

Both Cork and Newcastle upon Tyne during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Cork because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Cork in the winter. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Cork fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Cork. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 60 hours of full sun.

Cork gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle upon Tyne. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Cork. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Cork receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Cork in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Cork. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Cork this time of year.

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Cork. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Cork averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Cork during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Cork. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cork receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cork and Newcastle upon Tyne