A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Andrews vs. Killarney for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Killarney?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Killarney, 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 peaceful, historic, and charming university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Killarney

Killarney is a natural, peaceful, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Saint Andrews and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Killarney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Andrews. Although Saint Andrews and Killarney are popular destinations, Saint Andrews has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Andrews is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking. Killarney is more touristy than Saint Andrews and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Saint Andrews is famous for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. It is also well known for The Old Course.

The Old Course

How is Saint Andrews different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Saint Andrews and Killarney.

Saint Andrews offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Killarney. 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 Saint Andrews or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Andrews makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Saint Andrews or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Saint Andrews has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

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 Saint Andrews or Killarney Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for its beaches. However, Killarney 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.

Killarney is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Killarney is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its hiking trails.

Killarney is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Killarney?

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

Saint Andrews is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Killarney Better for Families?

Killarney is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Killarney is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly university town. 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.

Is Saint Andrews or Killarney Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews and Killarney 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.

Killarney makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

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

Killarney 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 Killarney. 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.

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 Killarney Better for Students?

Saint Andrews is terrific for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

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.

Killarney is not popular with students.

Is Saint Andrews or Killarney 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, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Saint Andrews, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Public transit is mostly limited in Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.

Is Saint Andrews or Killarney a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Killarney is not a very walkable university town. 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 Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Killarney?

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

Families should spend more time in Killarney than Saint Andrews. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Saint Andrews than Killarney. 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 Saint Andrews than Killarney 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 Saint Andrews.

One day in Saint Andrews or Killarney?

Even though Saint Andrews is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Andrews has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the local destination of Killarney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Killarney?

Saint Andrews is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this university town has to offer. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Killarney?

Saint Andrews is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the peaceful destination of Killarney. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Killarney?

Saint Andrews 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.

You'll find museums and food around the town of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Andrews and Killarney, we can see that Saint Andrews is more expensive. And not only is Killarney much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Killarney would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Killarney 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 Killarney.

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 Killarney Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Killarney?

Saint Andrews has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews or Killarney in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Killarney. 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 Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Andrews is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 14°C (58°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Killarney. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Killarney in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Killarney. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Killarney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Killarney. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Killarney in the Winter?

Both Killarney and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Saint Andrews can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saint Andrews is much colder than Killarney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Andrews in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Killarney averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. In January, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Killarney. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Killarney in the Spring?

Both Killarney and Saint Andrews during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Killarney because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Killarney. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Killarney and Saint Andrews