A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Andrews vs. Cork for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Cork?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Cork, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a charming, quaint, and peaceful university town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cork

Cork is a youthful, energetic, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Saint Andrews and Cork: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Cork?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cork. Although Saint Andrews and Cork are popular destinations, Cork has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cork is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Saint Andrews attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Andrews is famous for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. Cork is famous for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer. It is also well known for The Blarney Castle and Stone.

How is Saint Andrews different from Cork?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Cork?

Cork is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cork can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

Is the Food Better in Saint Andrews or Cork? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Saint Andrews and Cork.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Andrews. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Cork has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork Better for Nightlife?

Cork is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

Cork offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for its beaches. However, Cork is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saint Andrews. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Cork is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Cork is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint Andrews. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Cork is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Cork?

Both Saint Andrews and Cork are high quality shopping destinations.

Saint Andrews is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cork. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork Better for Families?

Saint Andrews and Cork are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly place to visit. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Cork is a family-friendly university town. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews and Cork are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Cork makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cork is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cork. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork Better for Students?

Saint Andrews is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Saint Andrews is a very popular university town for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Many students visit Cork. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Saint Andrews has a few public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.

Is Saint Andrews or Cork a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews and Cork both are nice when exploring on foot.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

Cork is a somewhat walkable university town. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Cork Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cork or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Cork?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cork than Saint Andrews 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 Cork.

One day in Saint Andrews or Cork?

Saint Andrews is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the seaside destination of Cork. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Cork?

Saint Andrews is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. 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 Cork. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Cork?

Saint Andrews is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This university town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Cork. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Saint Andrews or Cork?

Because Saint Andrews is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Cork. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Cork?

Cork has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews and Cork, 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 Saint Andrews or Cork?

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 Saint Andrews or Cork in the Summer?

Both Cork and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cork for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Andrews is generally around the same temperature as Cork. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 14°C (58°F), and Cork fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cork during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 178 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cork. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cork receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Cork in the Autumn?

Both Cork and Saint Andrews during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cork in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Cork in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Cork fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets more sunshine than Cork. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 90 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Cork. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cork receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Cork in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Cork. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cork for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saint Andrews can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saint Andrews is much colder than Cork. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Andrews in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Cork averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cork during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cork receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Cork. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cork receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Cork in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Cork. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Cork because of the activities around the city.

In April, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Cork. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 7°C (45°F), and Cork fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cork. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 157 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Cork. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cork receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cork and Saint Andrews