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

Should you visit Nottingham or Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nottingham or Kilkenny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nottingham. Although Nottingham and Kilkenny are popular destinations, Nottingham has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nottingham is very popular for its music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kilkenny attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nottingham is famous for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also well known for Old Market Square. Kilkenny is famous for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Nottingham different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kilkenny is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

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

Kilkenny is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kilkenny makes for a great culinary experience. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Nottingham or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Kilkenny.

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.

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 Nottingham or Kilkenny Better for Music?

Nottingham is very good for its live music scene. However, Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Is Nottingham or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

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

Kilkenny is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Kilkenny?

Nottingham is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Nottingham is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

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 Nottingham or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Kilkenny is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kilkenny is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Nottingham or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Kilkenny frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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 Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kilkenny is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Kilkenny is a good town to visit for backpackers. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

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

Public transit in Nottingham can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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

Is Nottingham or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Nottingham and Kilkenny both are superb when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nottingham or Kilkenny to fill your time. In our opinion, Kilkenny has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kilkenny than Nottingham. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Kilkenny than Nottingham. 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 Kilkenny than Nottingham. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kilkenny that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kilkenny than Nottingham 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 Kilkenny.

One day in Nottingham or Kilkenny?

The city of Nottingham offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the fascinating town of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kilkenny, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Nottingham or Kilkenny?

Nottingham 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 Nottingham, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Nottingham or Kilkenny?

Nottingham is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kilkenny, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Kilkenny?

Nottingham 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.

Kilkenny 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nottingham and Kilkenny, we can see that Nottingham 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 Nottingham would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nottingham 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 Nottingham Expensive? and Is Kilkenny Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Kilkenny?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Kilkenny in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Nottingham is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nottingham in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 15°C (60°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nottingham or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Nottingham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 11°C (52°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Kilkenny. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nottingham or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Kilkenny. The winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. Nottingham is cooler than Kilkenny in the winter. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nottingham or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Kilkenny. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nottingham is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nottingham in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Kilkenny. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Nottingham