A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Outer Hebrides vs. Kilkenny for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Outer Hebrides and Kilkenny. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides is a spectacular, natural, and tranquil archipelago. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a medieval, fascinating, and active town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Outer Hebrides and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kilkenny. Although Outer Hebrides and Kilkenny are popular destinations, Kilkenny has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kilkenny is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Outer Hebrides attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Kilkenny is more touristy than Outer Hebrides and is popular for its medieval castle and long running history. It is also well known for The Kilkenny Castle. Outer Hebrides is famous for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries.

The Kilkenny Castle

How is Outer Hebrides different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

Kilkenny is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Outer Hebrides and Kilkenny can be an enjoyable experience.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Outer Hebrides. You'll find plenty of seafood, smokehouses, distilleries and crofting produce in the area. Most islands have independent restaurants as well as pubs and other local eateries to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kilkenny. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Is Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Kilkenny is a good destination for nightlife. However, Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kilkenny. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny Better for Beaches?

Outer Hebrides is a great destination for the beache. However, Kilkenny is not a beach destination.

Outer Hebrides is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. From white sand beaches to hidden coves, you'll enjoy a completely serene beach experience on these islands. You can get lost in the nature and soak up the surprisingly blue waters at any of the remote beaches. Favorite beaches in the area include Vatersay Bay, Coilleag a’Phrionnsa, West Coast Beach, and Crabhadail.

Kilkenny is not a beach destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Kilkenny is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Outer Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Outer Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

Is Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny Better for Hiking?

Outer Hebrides is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Outer Hebrides specifically for its hiking. The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

Kilkenny is a good destination for shopping. However, Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Kilkenny. 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Kilkenny is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Outer Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Kilkenny is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Outer Hebrides. The beautiful outdoor setting is great for kids and adults alike. There are beaches to explore as well as kid-friendly museums. You can also try your hand at digging for cockles or head out on the water to watch for dolphins.

Is Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides and Kilkenny both high quality destinations for a couple.

Outer Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Go island hopping and discover the countless beautiful beaches. You can take a boat trip or simply soak up the peaceful coastal setting.

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.

Is Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Outer Hebrides and Kilkenny are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Outer Hebrides. You'll need to take either a plane of ferry to reach the islands but once you're there you can camp and hike and soak up the tranquil setting.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

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

Kilkenny is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Outer Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Kilkenny has some public transit options. There are city buses through town.

Public transit is generally limited in Outer Hebrides. There are buses that run doing the day between Monday and Saturday. In Stornoway you may be able to find some evening buses as well.

Is Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Kilkenny is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Outer Hebrides?

How long in Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Outer Hebrides than Kilkenny because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kilkenny.

Families should spend more time in Kilkenny than Outer Hebrides. 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 Outer Hebrides. 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 Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

The beautiful archipelago of Outer Hebrides offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kilkenny, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

Outer Hebrides is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kilkenny 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 Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

Outer Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Outer Hebrides, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

Outer Hebrides is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Outer Hebrides has to offer. This archipelago offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the town of Kilkenny. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples 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 Outer Hebrides and Kilkenny, we can see that Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides Expensive? and Is Kilkenny Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Outer Hebrides during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Outer Hebrides for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Outer Hebrides is cooler than Kilkenny. Typically, the summer temperatures in Outer Hebrides in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 15°C (60°F).

In the summer, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Kilkenny. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in July than Kilkenny. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Kilkenny. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Outer Hebrides is generally cooler than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 9°C (49°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny during autumn. Outer Hebrides gets 83 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Outer Hebrides gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Kilkenny. Most visitors come to Outer Hebrides for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Outer Hebrides can be very cold during winter. Outer Hebrides is cooler than Kilkenny in the winter. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Kilkenny. Outer Hebrides gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides receives a lot of rain in the winter. Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in January than Kilkenny. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Kilkenny in the Spring?

Both Kilkenny and Outer Hebrides are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Outer Hebrides because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

In the spring, Outer Hebrides is cooler than Kilkenny. Typically, the spring temperatures in Outer Hebrides in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny during spring. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Outer Hebrides