A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Dingle for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nottingham or Dingle?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Dingle can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a cultural, authentic, and dynamic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Dingle

Dingle is a serene, natural, and scenic peninsula. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Nottingham and Dingle: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Dingle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nottingham than Dingle, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nottingham is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Dingle is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dingle is more touristy than Nottingham and is known for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Also, Nottingham is famous for Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Dingle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Dingle?

Nottingham
Dingle

Nottingham is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nottingham. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

While most people don't head to Dingle specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the natural beauty, but there are a couple of landmarks in the area including the Eask Tower, Gallarus Oratory, and the Blasket Centre.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Dingle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Dingle

Both Nottingham and Dingle offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Dingle has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find great seafood throughout the peninsula. There's also traditional Irish food available including Irish stew or cabbage and bacon.

Is Nottingham or Dingle Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Dingle

Nottingham is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for nightlife.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Dingle doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area's not known for its nightlife but you can visit The Hillgrove, which is the peninsula's only nightclub. It's in a hotel and there is weekly entertainment.

Is Nottingham or Dingle Better for Music?

Nottingham
Dingle

Nottingham is a popular place for its music scene. However, Dingle is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Nottingham is active and vibrant. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Dingle is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Dingle Better for Beaches?

Nottingham
Dingle

Dingle is well known for its beaches. However, Nottingham is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Dingle attract visitors from all over. It's not hard to find a quiet beach with scenic views and a serene setting. Some of the best beaches in the area include Coumeenole, Brandon Bay, and Ventry.

Nottingham is not a beach destination.

Is Nottingham or Dingle Better for Hiking?

Nottingham
Dingle

Dingle is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dingle. There are a variety of walking paths and hiking trails that take you through the coastal setting, rolling mountains, and remote nature. Some of the best trails in the area include the long distance hiking trail the Dingle Way, Mount Brandon, and Glenteenassig Forest Park.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Dingle?

Nottingham
Dingle

Nottingham is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Nottingham. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Nottingham or Dingle Better for Families?

Nottingham
Dingle

Both Nottingham and Dingle are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Dingle offers lots of family activities. There are coastal walks and beaches that are perfect for kids. You can also visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, do a dolphin tour, or enjoy some watersports. Horseback riding and Sandy Feet Farm are both fun as well.

Is Nottingham or Dingle Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Dingle

Dingle is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Dingle frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Nottingham or Dingle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Dingle

Dingle is well known for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Dingle. There are a good number of hostels on the peninsula and there are interesting music festivals and other events that make this a good backpacker destination.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Nottingham or Dingle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Dingle

Nottingham is a great destination for its public transit. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Nottingham offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dingle. Bus Eireann offers buses daily to Tralee and then there are connections to other destinations.

Is Nottingham or Dingle a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Dingle

Nottingham is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its walkability.

Nottingham is a very walkable destination. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Dingle is generally not a very walkable city. If you have enough time, there are countless walking trails throughout the peninsula.

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Dingle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dingle or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Dingle?

In either Nottingham or Dingle, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dingle than Nottingham because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dingle.

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


  • How many days in Nottingham or Dingle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Dingle 2-5

One day in Nottingham or Dingle?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nottingham. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

With food around the rustic peninsula of Dingle, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Nottingham or Dingle?

Nottingham 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.

With food around the destination of Dingle, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this peninsula.

Five days in Nottingham or Dingle?

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

Dingle, a popular peninsula, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this peninsula. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Dingle?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the dynamic destination of Nottingham. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dingle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Dingle or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Dingle is £103. 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 Nottingham and Dingle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Dingle £58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Dingle £116
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Dingle

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Dingle? 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 Nottingham


Hotels in Dingle


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Dingle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Dingle £15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dingle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dingle:

  • Dingle To Kerry Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Dingle?

Prices for flights to both Dingle and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    Dingle £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Dingle £8.14

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Tours and Activities in Dingle

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

  • Boat Tour of Dingle Peninsula: $14
  • Dingle Peninsula Virtual Tour: $16
  • Dingle Bay Cliff Tour: $21
  • 2-hour Guided Mini Eco Tour at Dingle, Ireland: $49
  • Morning Tasting and Sightseeing Guided Tour in Dingle Ireland: $55
  • Self-Guided eBike Tour: $59
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Drive Group Tour: $76
  • Blasket Eco Tour.: $82
  • Dingle Dolphin Blasket Adventures: $84
  • Dingle Boat Tours Wildlife RIB Adventure: $87
  • Blasket Island Sea Life Rib Tour,: $93
  • Wildlife Tour: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Dingle £13

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Dingle?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Dingle. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Dingle, 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 Nottingham or Dingle?

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 Nottingham or Dingle in the Summer?

Both Dingle and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dingle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Dingle. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Dingle during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Dingle. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Dingle 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Dingle in the Autumn?

Both Dingle and Nottingham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dingle for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Nottingham is around the same temperature as Dingle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Dingle fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Dingle. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 79 hours of full sun.

Dingle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Dingle. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Dingle 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Dingle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Dingle. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Dingle because of the museums and the cuisine.

Nottingham can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Nottingham is much colder than Dingle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Dingle averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Dingle during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

Dingle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Dingle. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Dingle 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Dingle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Dingle. The spring months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Dingle this time of year.

In April, Nottingham is generally cooler than Dingle. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dingle. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 150 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Dingle. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Dingle 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dingle and Nottingham

Nottingham Dingle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)