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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale?

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 Kinsale can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a cultural, historical, and vibrant port city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a charming, quaint, and picturesque seaside town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Kinsale: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kinsale. Although Newcastle upon Tyne and Kinsale are both popular with visitors, Kinsale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kinsale is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Newcastle upon Tyne is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Kinsale is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is known for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. It is also home to Charles Fort. Newcastle upon Tyne is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. 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.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kinsale is an amazing seaside town to visit for its restaurants. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Kinsale has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newcastle upon Tyne makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne is great for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Newcastle upon Tyne for the nightlife scene. 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.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Kinsale is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne and Kinsale are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Kinsale is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kinsale. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale?

Newcastle upon Tyne is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its shopping areas.

Newcastle upon Tyne is well-known for its shopping. 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.

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

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale.

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 Kinsale. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Kinsale are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. 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.

Kinsale is a nice destination for couples. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Kinsale are both good 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 Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Newcastle upon Tyne. 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.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Newcastle upon Tyne can get you to some places easily. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an amazing port city to visit 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.

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

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Kinsale Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Kinsale because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kinsale.

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

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

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kinsale is a small town with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Kinsale?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newcastle upon Tyne has to offer.

Many people visit Kinsale for a weekend. Lots of people come for the food. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kinsale, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Because Kinsale is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Since Kinsale is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This seaside town 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 Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Newcastle upon Tyne and Kinsale, we can see that Newcastle upon Tyne is more expensive. And not only is Kinsale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kinsale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kinsale 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 Kinsale.

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 Kinsale Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Kinsale in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Kinsale. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally around the same temperature as Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 15°C (59°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during summer. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Kinsale. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Kinsale for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Kinsale in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Kinsale fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in October than Kinsale. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Kinsale and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Kinsale. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Kinsale averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kinsale. It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Kinsale and Newcastle upon Tyne during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 7°C (45°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in April than Kinsale. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Newcastle upon Tyne