A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Snowdonia National Park vs. Kilkenny for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

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 Snowdonia National Park and Kilkenny can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a natural, scenic, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a ancient, medieval, and fascinating town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Snowdonia National Park and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kilkenny than Snowdonia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kilkenny is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Snowdonia National Park is more popular for its skiing, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Snowdonia National Park is well known for its beautiful mountain landscape. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history. Also, Kilkenny is famous for The Kilkenny Castle.

The Kilkenny Castle
The Kilkenny Castle

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Snowdonia National Park is a national park with a few options for winter skiing. However, Kilkenny is not a skiing destination.

Snowdonia National Park is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.

Kilkenny is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Kilkenny specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Snowdonia National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kilkenny. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Snowdonia National Park is very good for the beache. However, Kilkenny is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Snowdonia National Park to enjoy the beach. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Kilkenny is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a well-known place for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Snowdonia National Park is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kilkenny offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kilkenny. 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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Snowdonia National Park is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Snowdonia National Park has plenty to offer. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

Kilkenny is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Snowdonia National Park is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Both Snowdonia National Park and Kilkenny offer notable public transit options.

Snowdonia National Park has a few public transit options. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Snowdonia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

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

Families should spend more time in Kilkenny than Snowdonia National Park. 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 Snowdonia National Park than Kilkenny. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Snowdonia National Park that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Kilkenny 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 Snowdonia National Park.


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Kilkenny 1-2

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

The beautiful national park of Snowdonia National Park 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the active town of Kilkenny. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kilkenny is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kilkenny is a great place to explore. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


A week in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kilkenny. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Kilkenny or Snowdonia National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Snowdonia National Park is £75, while the average daily cost in Kilkenny is £76. 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 Snowdonia National Park and Kilkenny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Kilkenny £38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Kilkenny £76
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Kilkenny

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny? 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 Snowdonia National Park


Hotels in Kilkenny


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: Kilkenny Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Kilkenny £18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Snowdonia National Park:

  • Private Transfer from Caernarfon to Manchester Airport (MAN): $250

Is it cheaper to fly into Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

Prices for flights to both Kilkenny and Snowdonia National Park 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
    Snowdonia National Park £19
    Kilkenny £25

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Kilkenny £13

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Snowdonia National Park are as follows:

  • Anglesey Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • 2 Hours Historical Tour of Caernarfon: $33
  • Snowdon Kayak Adventure on Llyn Padarn: $56

Tours and Activities in Kilkenny

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

  • Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.81
  • Historical Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Kilkenny city tour in German.: $13
  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour: $13
  • Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views: $16
  • Knight For Hire Tour: $16
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • The Witch Tour: $21
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • Smithwick's Beer Experience: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Kilkenny £10

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

Also in Kilkenny, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158


When comparing the travel costs between Snowdonia National Park and Kilkenny, we can see that Kilkenny 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 Snowdonia National Park Expensive? and Is Kilkenny Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny?

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 Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Kilkenny. The summer months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the summer. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In Snowdonia National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Kilkenny 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Kilkenny. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Kilkenny. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Kilkenny 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny in the Winter?

Both Kilkenny and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Snowdonia National Park is generally around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 5°C (42°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Kilkenny 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Kilkenny in the Spring?

Both Kilkenny and Snowdonia National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty during these months.

Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the spring. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kilkenny. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Kilkenny 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Kilkenny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)


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