A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zermatt vs. Kinsale for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zermatt or Kinsale?

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 Zermatt and Kinsale can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a iconic, breathtaking, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a colorful, charming, and quaint seaside town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Zermatt and Kinsale: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Kinsale?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Kinsale are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Kinsale attracts visitors for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm. Zermatt is more touristy than Kinsale and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Kinsale is famous for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for skiing. However, Kinsale is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Zermatt. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Kinsale is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zermatt or Kinsale?

Kinsale is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Kinsale is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to the colorful old town, you can check out Charles Fort, James Fort, and Old Head Signal Tower. The town is filled with history and many unique landmarks that are worth exploring.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

Is the Food Better in Zermatt or Kinsale? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kinsale is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Kinsale has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

Zermatt has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is great for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Zermatt for the nightlife scene. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

Most people don't head to Kinsale specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is great for its luxury resorts. However, Kinsale is not a resort destination.

In Zermatt, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Kinsale is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Kinsale is a moderate seaside town for its beaches. However, Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Kinsale is a good spot to see the beach. You'll find a number of beaches within about 20 minutes of town. The closest is Kinsale Beach, which is about 3 kilometers from the center of town. For a more peaceful setting, head out of town and check out Sandycove Beach, Garrylucas Blue Flag Beach, and Coolmain Beach.

Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Kinsale is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kinsale. The old town is filled with brightly colored houses, and it offers a unique setting that's different from many of Europe's more standard old towns.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for hiking. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for the nearby hiking options.

Around Zermatt visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Kinsale offers some nice hiking trails. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Kinsale?

Zermatt is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its shopping areas.

Zermatt is well-known for its shopping. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to go shopping. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Families?

Zermatt is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zermatt is very family-friendly. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

Kinsale is a family-friendly place to visit. If your kids need a break from the tourist circuit, there are a couple of playgrounds and outdoor centers around town. There's also one hour pony treks available at the Kinsale Equestrian Centre.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for couples.

Zermatt is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

Kinsale is a good town for couples to visit. From coastal walks to quaint streets, there are many picturesque places that a couple can explore. The town also has an impressive restaurant scene where couples can enjoy a great meal.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Zermatt. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zermatt is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Zermatt offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Public transit is generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.

Is Zermatt or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its ease of walking around.

Zermatt is a very easy town to get around on foot. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable town. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Zermatt Worth Visiting? and Is Kinsale Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Kinsale?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Kinsale to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Kinsale because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kinsale.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zermatt than Kinsale 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 Zermatt.

One day in Zermatt or Kinsale?

In Zermatt, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kinsale is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This seaside town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Zermatt or Kinsale?

In Zermatt, you'll find nightlife 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 Zermatt has to offer.

Kinsale might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kinsale has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Kinsale?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Kinsale is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Zermatt or Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kinsale. Since Kinsale is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zermatt Expensive? and Is Kinsale Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Kinsale?

Zermatt has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Kinsale, 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 Zermatt or Kinsale?

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 Zermatt or Kinsale in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Kinsale. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is a little warmer than Kinsale. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Kinsale averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Kinsale. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 178 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Kinsale. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Kinsale in the Autumn?

Both Kinsale and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kinsale for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Kinsale during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Kinsale in the Winter?

Both Kinsale and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zermatt can be very cold during winter. Zermatt is cooler than Kinsale in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Kinsale fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Kinsale. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kinsale receives 60 hours of full sun.

Kinsale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zermatt usually gets less rain in January than Kinsale. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Kinsale in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Kinsale. The spring months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than Kinsale. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Kinsale averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Kinsale during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Kinsale receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Zermatt