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

Should you visit Zurich or Killarney?

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 Killarney. 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 liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Killarney

Killarney is a natural, peaceful, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Zurich and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Killarney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich. Although Zurich and Killarney are popular destinations, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Killarney is famous for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

How is Zurich different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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 Zurich or Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zurich makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Zurich or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is well known for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

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 Zurich or Killarney Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for live music. However, Killarney is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Killarney is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is terrific for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

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.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Killarney is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Killarney is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Killarney?

Zurich is terrific for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zurich or Killarney Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Killarney are very good 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 Killarney. 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.

Is Zurich or Killarney Better for Couples?

Zurich and Killarney both very good 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.

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.

Is Zurich or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Killarney are nice 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 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.

Is Zurich or Killarney Better for Students?

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

Zurich is a very popular city for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Killarney is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is well known for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Zurich or Killarney a more walkable city?

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

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

Killarney is not a very walkable city. 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 Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Killarney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Killarney?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zurich and Killarney. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than in Killarney. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 2-3 days is enough time in Killarney.

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Killarney. 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 Killarney. 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 Killarney 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 Killarney?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Zurich. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zurich or Killarney?

You'll find live music and food around the beautiful destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Killarney 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 Killarney?

You'll find food and shopping around the liberal city of Zurich. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Killarney?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the charming destination of Killarney. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Killarney, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Killarney much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Killarney would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Killarney 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 Killarney.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Killarney?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Killarney in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Killarney. Most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Killarney. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Killarney in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Killarney. The autumn months attract visitors to Zurich because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

Zurich is a little warmer than Killarney in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Killarney. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Killarney in the Winter?

Both Killarney and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Killarney for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. In the winter, Zurich is much colder than Killarney. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Killarney averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. In January, Zurich usually receives less rain than Killarney. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Killarney in the Spring?

Both Killarney and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Killarney in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Killarney. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Killarney and Zurich