A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Windsor vs. Killarney for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Windsor or Killarney?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Killarney? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Killarney

Killarney is a charming, local, and natural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Windsor and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Windsor or Killarney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Windsor. Although Windsor and Killarney are popular destinations, Windsor has more sights and attractions for tourists. Windsor is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking. Windsor is famous for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. It is also well known for The Windsor Castle. Killarney is famous for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

How is Windsor different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Killarney?

Windsor
Killarney

Windsor is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Windsor. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Killarney

Foodies will find both Windsor and Killarney both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Killarney is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Windsor or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Killarney

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

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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 Windsor or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Killarney

Windsor is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Windsor to see the historical old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Windsor or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Windsor
Killarney

Killarney is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is Windsor or Killarney Better for Families?

Windsor
Killarney

Killarney is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Killarney Better for Couples?

Windsor
Killarney

With fun activities for couples, both Windsor and Killarney make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Killarney is a great town if you're traveling as 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 Windsor or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Killarney

Killarney is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor
Killarney

Windsor is a 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 Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

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

Is Windsor or Killarney a more walkable city?

Windsor
Killarney

Windsor is well known for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Windsor is very walkable. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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 Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Killarney?

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

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


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

One day in Windsor or Killarney?

Even though Windsor 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 Windsor has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Killarney, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Windsor or Killarney?

Windsor 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Killarney, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Killarney has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Killarney?

Windsor 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.

Killarney is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Windsor or Killarney?

Windsor 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Killarney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, 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 Windsor and Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Killarney £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Killarney £174
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Killarney £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Killarney £39
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

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.
    Windsor £26
    Killarney £16

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Killarney Hop - On, Hop - Off Tour: $16
  • Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall: $22
  • Guided Boat Tour to Innisfallen Island: $22
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on theTralee to Fenit Greenway: $27
  • Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney - Scenic Tour (Minimum 4 People - 1 way).: $33
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney : $36
  • Killarney Carriage Tours National Park and Lakes: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Killarney £11

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 Windsor and Killarney, we can see that Windsor 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 Windsor Expensive? and Is Killarney Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Killarney?

Windsor has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Windsor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 18°C (64°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Killarney. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Killarney in the Autumn?

Both Killarney and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Killarney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Killarney. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Killarney in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Killarney. The winter months attract visitors to Windsor because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

The weather in Windsor can be very cold. In the winter, Windsor is much colder than Killarney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Windsor in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Killarney averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Killarney. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Killarney in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Killarney. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Killarney. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Windsor

Windsor Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°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 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°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 (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)