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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Kilkenny can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. And you can't forget about the food and theater.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a medieval, fascinating, and active town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kilkenny than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kilkenny is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions and small town charm. Kilkenny is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its medieval castle and long running history. Also, Kilkenny is famous for The Kilkenny Castle. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

The Kilkenny Castle

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kilkenny is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Kilkenny is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Stratford-upon-Avon is world-class. 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.

Kilkenny is not a theatre destination.

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

Kilkenny is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Kilkenny has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

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

Kilkenny is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

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

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

Kilkenny is a very popular place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Kilkenny?

Kilkenny is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kilkenny is very family-friendly. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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.

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

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

Kilkenny makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

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 Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kilkenny is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Kilkenny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

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

Kilkenny is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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 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.

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

Kilkenny is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

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.

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

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Kilkenny to fill your time. In our opinion, Kilkenny has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kilkenny than Stratford-upon-Avon. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Kilkenny than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 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 Kilkenny.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Kilkenny?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kilkenny, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Kilkenny?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stratford-upon-Avon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Kilkenny for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kilkenny, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Kilkenny?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The destination of Kilkenny offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Kilkenny?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kilkenny. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Kilkenny, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon 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 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 Kilkenny.

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 Kilkenny Expensive?.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Kilkenny, 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 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Stratford-upon-Avon during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Kilkenny in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Kilkenny. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Kilkenny. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stratford-upon-Avon. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally much colder than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in January than Kilkenny. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Kilkenny and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty during these months.

Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Stratford-upon-Avon