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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney?

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 Killarney can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming, historic, and quaint town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for food and theater.

Killarney

Killarney is a peaceful, charming, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Killarney. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Killarney are popular destinations, Killarney has more sights and attractions for tourists. Killarney is very popular for its museums, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Killarney is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. It is also well known for Killarney National Park. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Killarney is very good for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Killarney offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

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 Killarney Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Stratford-upon-Avon is terrific for theatre. However, Killarney is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Stratford-upon-Avon that are not to be missed. 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.

Killarney is not a theatre destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Killarney 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 Killarney area. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Killarney 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 Killarney. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

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


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Stratford-upon-Avon is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Stratford-upon-Avon to see the historical old town. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Killarney 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 Killarney. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Killarney 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, Killarney is very family-friendly. 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.

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 Killarney Better for Couples?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

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

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.

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 Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

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

Killarney is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Killarney.

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 Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Killarney

Stratford-upon-Avon is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Stratford-upon-Avon is somewhat walkable. 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.

Killarney is not a very walkable 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Killarney 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 Killarney.


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney?

Even though Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Killarney, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Killarney?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Killarney 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 Killarney, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney?

Stratford-upon-Avon 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. Most people head to the area for the theater. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The destination of Killarney offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney?

Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stratford-upon-Avon is £144, while the average daily cost in Killarney is £143. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney? 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 Stratford-upon-Avon


Hotels in Killarney


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: Stratford-upon-Avon Hotel Prices and Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Killarney £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also for Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Stratford-upon-Avon To London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $272

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53
  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282

Is it cheaper to fly into Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Stratford-upon-Avon 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
    Stratford-upon-Avon £39
    Killarney £39
Typical Food Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Cheese & Crackers
    £7.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Shakespearean Cooking Experience in Stratford-upon-Avon: $163
  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $176

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Killarney.

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Killarney £16
Typical Entertainment Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Stratford-upon-Avon's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Warwick Castle (2)
    £59
  • Lunch
    £12
  • Lunch for 2
    £17

Tours and Activities in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter: $6.99
  • Warwick Self-Guided Immersive Audio Walking Tour: $8.88
  • Stratford-Upon-Avon Audio Walking Tour: Shakespeare's Life: $8.89
  • Shakespeare’s A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • City Exploration Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Tudor World Museum Entrance Ticket: $9.99
  • Shakespeare & Hathaway TV Sites Tour: $11
  • Shakespeare and Hathaway 2-Hour Self Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Historical Walking Tour: $12
  • The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour: $12
  • The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon: $13
  • The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park: $38
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Bus & Boat Tour: $63
  • Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour (Jaunting Cart Paid Separately) : $63
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Day Tour: $39
  • From Portmagee & Skellig Ring Full-Day Tour: $75
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach: $65
  • Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour: $59
  • Gap of Dunloe Day Tour and Boat Ride from Killarney: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Killarney £11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Stratford-upon-Avon from other travelers:


  • Beers
    £8.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also in Stratford-upon-Avon, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Shakespeare Gin Distillery Tour & Taste: $24
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket: $25
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 1pm Ticket: $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


When comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Killarney, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Killarney Expensive?.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Killarney?

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 Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Stratford-upon-Avon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a little warmer than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 17°C (63°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

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

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stratford-upon-Avon 17°C (63°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Killarney. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn for the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Killarney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

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

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stratford-upon-Avon 11°C (52°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Killarney. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine.

Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon is much colder than Killarney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Killarney averages at about 7°C (44°F).

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

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stratford-upon-Avon 3°C (38°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

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

Both Killarney and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Killarney. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 9°C (48°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stratford-upon-Avon 9°C (48°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)