A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Kinsale for Food, Beaches, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands and Kinsale can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a serene, tranquil, and natural archipelago. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a picturesque, colorful, and charming 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 museums, food, and hiking.

Orkney Islands and Kinsale: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Kinsale?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kinsale. Although Orkney Islands and Kinsale are both popular with visitors, Kinsale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kinsale is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Orkney Islands is known for its beaches and hiking. Kinsale is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. It is also home to Charles Fort. Orkney Islands is popular for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Kinsale?

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Kinsale and Orkney Islands.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Orkney Islands. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

Kinsale is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Orkney Islands or Kinsale? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kinsale is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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, Orkney Islands makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

Is Orkney Islands or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Kinsale is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Kinsale doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands is great for the beache. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for the beach.

The beaches at Orkney Islands attract visitors from all over. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

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.

Is Orkney Islands or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Kinsale is great for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kinsale. 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.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands is great for hiking. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Kinsale offers some nice hiking trails. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Kinsale?

Kinsale is very good for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kinsale has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Kinsale Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Orkney Islands or Kinsale.

Orkney Islands offers lots of family activities. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Kinsale is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Orkney Islands or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands is great for its romantic activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for couples.

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Kinsale is a good archipelago for couples to visit. 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 Orkney Islands or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Orkney Islands. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.

Is Orkney Islands or Kinsale Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orkney Islands is a archipelago with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Orkney Islands offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

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

Is Orkney Islands or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Kinsale is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable seaside town. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Orkney Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Kinsale Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Kinsale?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Orkney Islands or Kinsale to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Orkney Islands than Kinsale because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kinsale.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands.

One day in Orkney Islands or Kinsale?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kinsale might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Kinsale?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Kinsale is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Kinsale?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orkney Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kinsale. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Orkney Islands or Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orkney Islands. In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Kinsale is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.

When comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Kinsale, we can see that Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Expensive? and Is Kinsale Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands or Kinsale in the Summer?

Both Kinsale and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the beaches, the hiking, and 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, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 12°C (54°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kinsale. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Kinsale in the Autumn?

Both Kinsale and Orkney Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

Orkney Islands is cooler than Kinsale in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Kinsale fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in October than Kinsale. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Kinsale in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Kinsale. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Orkney Islands can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Orkney Islands is much colder than Kinsale. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orkney Islands in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Kinsale averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Kinsale during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kinsale receives a lot of rain in the winter. Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kinsale. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Kinsale in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Kinsale. The spring months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

In April, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 6°C (43°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Kinsale. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kinsale. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Orkney Islands