A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Dingle for Couples, Food, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Dingle can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a quaint, idyllic, and peaceful town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include food and theater.

Dingle

Dingle is a rustic, picturesque, and serene peninsula. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Dingle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dingle. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Dingle are both popular with visitors, Dingle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dingle is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Dingle is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs. It is also home to The Gallarus Oratory. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Dingle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dingle and Stratford-upon-Avon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Dingle.

While most people don't head to Stratford-upon-Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Dingle offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the natural beauty, but there are a couple of landmarks in the area including the Eask Tower, Gallarus Oratory, and the Blasket Centre.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Dingle is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Stratford-upon-Avon draw crowds from around the world. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Dingle is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Dingle can be an enjoyable experience.

Stratford-upon-Avon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dingle area. You'll find great seafood throughout the peninsula. There's also traditional Irish food available including Irish stew or cabbage and bacon.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for Nightlife?

Dingle is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dingle. The area's not known for its nightlife but you can visit The Hillgrove, which is the peninsula's only nightclub. It's in a hotel and there is weekly entertainment.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for Beaches?

Dingle is a very popular place for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Dingle is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It's not hard to find a quiet beach with scenic views and a serene setting. Some of the best beaches in the area include Coumeenole, Brandon Bay, and Ventry.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for Hiking?

Dingle is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dingle. There are a variety of walking paths and hiking trails that take you through the coastal setting, rolling mountains, and remote nature. Some of the best trails in the area include the long distance hiking trail the Dingle Way, Mount Brandon, and Glenteenassig Forest Park.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly town. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Dingle. There are coastal walks and beaches that are perfect for kids. You can also visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, do a dolphin tour, or enjoy some watersports. Horseback riding and Sandy Feet Farm are both fun as well.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for Couples?

Dingle is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Dingle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dingle is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Dingle. There are a good number of hostels on the peninsula and there are interesting music festivals and other events that make this a good backpacker destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Dingle.

Public transit is mostly limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Public transit is generally limited in Dingle. Bus Eireann offers buses daily to Tralee and then there are connections to other destinations.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its walkability.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

Dingle is generally not a very walkable town. If you have enough time, there are countless walking trails throughout the peninsula.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Dingle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dingle or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

In either Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dingle than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dingle.

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

Couples should spend more time in Dingle than Stratford-upon-Avon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dingle that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dingle than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Dingle.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Dingle, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Dingle for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dingle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dingle, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dingle, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Dingle. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This peninsula offers something for everyone. 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Dingle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

Stratford-upon-Avon has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Dingle. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Dingle, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle in the Summer?

Both Dingle and Stratford-upon-Avon during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Dingle because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Dingle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Dingle averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Dingle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 140 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Dingle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Dingle. The autumn months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dingle this time of year.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Dingle. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Dingle during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Dingle receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Dingle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Dingle. The museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dingle for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter. Stratford-upon-Avon is much colder than Dingle in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Dingle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Dingle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 44 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Dingle. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in January than Dingle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Dingle in the Spring?

Both Dingle and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Dingle in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Dingle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Dingle averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dingle during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Dingle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dingle and Stratford-upon-Avon