A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Kilkenny for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zurich or Kilkenny?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Kilkenny. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a ancient, medieval, and fascinating town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Kilkenny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zurich than Kilkenny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zurich is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Zurich different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zurich or Kilkenny?

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Zurich and Kilkenny.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Kilkenny offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Is the Food Better in Zurich or Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zurich and Kilkenny offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Kilkenny has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Is Zurich or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Zurich know how to have a good time. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

If you're looking for night time activities Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Is Zurich or Kilkenny Better for Music?

Zurich is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Zurich has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Kilkenny is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is terrific for its old town. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Zurich has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Many visitors go to Kilkenny to see the historical old town. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Kilkenny?

Zurich is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Kilkenny has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Is Zurich or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Kilkenny are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kilkenny. 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.

Is Zurich or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Zurich and Kilkenny both high quality destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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.

Is Zurich or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Kilkenny are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Zurich or Kilkenny Better for Students?

Zurich is terrific for students. However, Kilkenny is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Zurich can get you to some places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

While Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.

Is Zurich or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Zurich and Kilkenny both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Kilkenny?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Kilkenny 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 Zurich.

One day in Zurich or Kilkenny?

The beautiful city of Zurich offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kilkenny. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Kilkenny?

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kilkenny is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Kilkenny?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kilkenny. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

A week in Zurich or Kilkenny?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the medieval destination of Kilkenny. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, 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 Zurich and Kilkenny, we can see that Zurich 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 Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich 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 Zurich Expensive? and Is Kilkenny Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Kilkenny?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich or Kilkenny?

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 Zurich or Kilkenny in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Zurich is a little warmer than Kilkenny in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Kilkenny. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Zurich is a little warmer than Kilkenny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Kilkenny. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Kilkenny in the Winter?

Both Kilkenny and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. In January, Zurich is generally much colder than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kilkenny. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Kilkenny in the Spring?

Both Kilkenny and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

Zurich is a little warmer than Kilkenny in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kilkenny. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Kilkenny. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Zurich