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

Should you visit Nottingham or Killarney?

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 Killarney 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Killarney

Killarney is a charming, local, and natural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Nottingham and Killarney: 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 museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Killarney?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nottingham. Although Nottingham and Killarney are both popular with visitors, Nottingham has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nottingham is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Killarney is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Killarney is more touristy than Nottingham and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also home to Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nottingham
Killarney

Both Nottingham and Killarney have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Killarney offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.


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

Nottingham
Killarney

Both Nottingham and Killarney offer good 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.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find great local fish and chips shops as well as locally caught seafood and regional produce. There are cafes and other independent restaurants that provide a local taste of the area.

Is Nottingham or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Killarney

Nottingham is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Killarney doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Is Nottingham or Killarney Better for Music?

Nottingham
Killarney

Nottingham is a city with good options for live music. However, Killarney is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music 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.

Killarney is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Nottingham
Killarney

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Killarney. You'll find many great hiking trails both in and around Killarney National Park. The town is also the starting and ending point for the 200 km Kerry Way walking trail. Other hikes worth checking out in the area include the Knockreer Circular Walk, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road Walk.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Killarney?

Nottingham
Killarney

Nottingham is well known for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nottingham or Killarney Better for Families?

Nottingham
Killarney

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

Killarney is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.

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 Killarney Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Killarney

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

Couples visit Killarney frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

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 Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Killarney

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

Killarney is a good town to visit for backpackers. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Nottingham
Killarney

Nottingham is well known for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. 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 Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.


Is Nottingham or Killarney a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Killarney

Nottingham is well known for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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.

Killarney is not a very walkable city. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

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

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Killarney. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Killarney than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 2-3 days is enough time in Killarney.

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


  • How many days in Nottingham or Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Nottingham or Killarney?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Nottingham. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nottingham has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and food around the local town of Killarney, 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 Killarney?

You'll find live music and food around the cultural destination of Nottingham. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and museums around the destination of Killarney, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the livable city of Nottingham. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Killarney, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Killarney?

Nottingham is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Killarney 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney 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 Killarney is £143. 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 Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Killarney? 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 Killarney


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 Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Killarney £17

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 Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53
  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney 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
    Killarney £39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Killarney.

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Killarney £16

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 Killarney

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

  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Killarney Hop - On, Hop - Off Tour: $16
  • Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall: $22
  • Guided Boat Tour to Innisfallen Island: $22
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on theTralee to Fenit Greenway: $27
  • Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney - Scenic Tour (Minimum 4 People - 1 way).: $33
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney : $36
  • Killarney Carriage Tours National Park and Lakes: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Killarney £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Killarney?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Killarney, 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 Killarney?

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 Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

Nottingham is around the same temperature as Killarney in the summer. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

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

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


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

Should I visit Nottingham or Killarney in the Autumn?

Both Killarney and Nottingham during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nottingham is around the same temperature as Killarney. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nottingham in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Killarney averages at about 12°C (53°F).

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

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


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

Should I visit Nottingham or Killarney in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Killarney. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nottingham. In January, Nottingham is generally much colder than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 4°C (39°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

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

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


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

Should I visit Nottingham or Killarney in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Killarney. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Nottingham is cooler than Killarney in the spring. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

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


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

Typical Weather for Killarney and Nottingham

Nottingham Killarney
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)