Travel Budget for Killarney Visit Killarney on a Budget or Travel in Style

Killarney, Ciarrai, Ireland
Europe / Ireland /
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Killarney is a local town known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Killarney?

You should plan to spend around $211 (€201) per day on your vacation in Killarney. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $83 (€80) on meals
  • $21 (€20) on local transportation
  • $214 (€204) on hotels

A one week trip to Killarney for two people costs, on average, $2,949 (€2,814). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $211
    €201
  • One Week Per person
    $1,474
    €1,407
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,949
    €2,814
  • One Month Per person
    $6,319
    €6,030
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,949
    €2,814
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,898
    €5,628
  • One Month For a couple
    $12,638
    €12,060
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Killarney cost?

A one week trip to Killarney usually costs around $1,474 (€1,407) for one person and $2,949 (€2,814) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Killarney on average costs around $2,949 (€2,814) for one person and $5,898 (€5,628) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Killarney will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Killarney on average costs around $6,319 (€6,030) for one person and $12,638 (€12,060) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Killarney expensive to visit?

Killarney is a terrific town that brings in many travelers, showcasing a range of travel styles and spending choices. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

Killarney can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.

On average, budget travelers spend $94 (€86) per day, mid-range travelers spend $219 (€201) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $448 (€411) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Killarney.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Killarney is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Rovaniemi or Bath.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Killarney Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Killarney?

The average Killarney trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Killarney travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Killarney cost?

Killarney on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$45
(€43) 		$107
(€102) 		$230
(€220)
Local Transportation 1 $9
(€8.75) 		$21
(€20) 		$40
(€38)
Food 2 $36
(€35) 		$83
(€80) 		$159
(€152)
Entertainment 1 $9
(€8.28) 		$20
(€19) 		$38
(€36)
Alcohol 2 $3-9
(€3-9) 		$7-21
(€7-20) 		$13-40
(€13-38)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Killarney without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.

What Defines a Budget Traveler?

Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $94 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.

For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.

Thankfully, Killarney is home to plenty of hostels, including The Black Sheep Hostel and Slieve Bloom Manor. In these hostels, you can find economical dorm accommodations and a fun social atmosphere, but amenities are typically limited.

So, are you average?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most tourists in Killarney are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $219 per person, per day.

Killarney boasts a wide array of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or children, thus reducing your expenses. Families should prioritize hotels and restaurants that are geared toward kids. Loch Lein Country House is an excellent family-friendly option, while Applecroft House is also superb. You can find additional family and couple-friendly hotels in our hotel guide for Killarney here.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $448 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the town, a luxury budget will be necessary. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Thinking Trails at West Cork - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Killarney

The cost of hotels in Killarney can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $124, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $231. Overall, prices range from $90 to $373. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Killarney for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $214 (€204). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $107 (€102) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $107
    €102
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $214
    €204

Hotels in Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Killarney? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Killarney

The average hotel room price in Killarney based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $124 in the low season and $231 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Killarney include:

  • Loch Lein Country House starting at $171
  • Applecroft House starting at $141
  • The Ross starting at $172
  • Victoria House Hotel starting at $133
  • Cahernane House Hotel starting at $229
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Killarney

Killarney is a very family friendly town. If you're traveling with kids, you'll likely want to find an apartment or accommodation with more space.

Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in summer) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Killarney

Killarney does not has a good public transit system. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.

Regrettably, the town lacks walkability. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (moderate)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (poor)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $21 (€20) per person, per day, on local transportation in Killarney. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Killarney is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $21
    €20

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.

Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:

  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport for $279 details
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport for $53 details
  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service for $343 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Killarney
How much does it cost to go to Killarney? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Killarney
The price of renting a car in Killarney will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Killarney

While the culinary offerings in Killarney are good, many people don't specifically come here for the cuisine. Look for a few special spots around the town that are worth a try. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Killarney can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Killarney is $83 (€80) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $83
    €80

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Killarney is around $87 (€80) per person, with previous travelers spending from $38 to $166. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Killarney are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $9 to $26
  • Lunch: $13 to $35
  • Dinner: $26 to $61
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $13

When it comes to Ireland-pubs, brews, and comfort food are specialties wherever you go. Some of the top pubs in Killarney, most featuring live Irish music, include places like Murphy's Bar, The Laurel Pub, and The Jarvey's Rest Traditional Irish Pub. There are also trendier takes on the traditional with a Celtic Deco hangout like Bricin. Situated in a tastefully restored two century old restaurant on Killarney's high street, the place embodies Irish hospitality with natural stone walls, the warmth of antique timber, and the magic of stained glass. Other top picks on TripAdvisor include Hannigan's Bar and Restaurant, Cronins Restaurant, and Quinlans Seafood Bar. Most dining options are located on around Main Street in the downtown area of Killarney. Far from the traditional fish and chips, bangers and mash, or shepherd's pie, ethnic cuisine like Indian and Thai can also be found in Killarney.

Food & Dining Tips

When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.

Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.

Keep a water bottle handy instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also a great way to reduce waste.

Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Killarney. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Killarney Food Tour for $108 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Killarney

Tourists can't resist Killarney, especially for its well-known hiking, family-friendly activities, romance, and museums and attractions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Killarney typically cost an average of $20 (€19) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $20
    €19

As far as the natural wonders go, Killarney National Park has much to offer in that and more. It is located just beside Killarney, encompassing 25,425 acres of diverse ecology, including the Lakes of Killarney, oak and yew woodlands, and mountain peaks. It has Ireland's only native herd of red deer, as well as many other rare species, and the most extensive covering of native forest remaining in Ireland. It is also home to the ruins of Innisfallen Abbey, one of the most impressive archaeological remains dating from the early Christian period. You can easily spend plenty of time here, as the list of things to do in Killarney National Park is quite long!

The Gap of Dunloe is yet another gem of natural beauty-a narrow mountain pass between MacGillycuddy's Reeks and Purple Mountain. Within the gap are five lakes: Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake, and Black Lough-all connected by the River Loe. The narrow pass is a popular destination for tourists to see by cart and ponies, and is also known for its rock climbing.

On the other end of the spectrum, Muckross House and Gardens is a furnished 19th-century mansion set among mountains and woodland, with a shop, cafe, and working farms. It is located at the center of Killarney National Park, and the grounds and house are open to visitors for a fee. The mansion sits above one of the park's lakes as an example of Victorian grandeur. The house hosts regular events for all seasons.

Muckross Abbey is another historic structure located nearby. It was founded in 1448 as a Franciscan friary for the Observantine Franciscans by Donal McCarthy Mor, and still stands preserved today.



In addition to the sights and natural wonders mentioned above, Killarney holds a list of many more striking landscapes. The Kerry Way, for example, is a 133-mile long circular walking trail that begins and ends in Killarney. It is said to take about 9 days and brings visitors past Muckross House, along lake shores, to reach Torc Waterfall, and continue through Black Valley and Macgillycuddy's Reeks, including Carrauntoohil, Ireland's highest mountain. The trail follows past more scenic vistas and sweeping valleys, providing a whirlwind tour for the adventurer looking to experience the beautiful Irish countryside on foot. Then are plenty of other trails from beginner to expert, but if you are more of a water tourist, kayak and canoe rentals are available to use on any of Killarney's famous lakes.

Back in Killarney itself, the town has plenty of shopping for your Irish goods and souvenirs, plus some of the best nightlife around. The pubs come alive with great brews and entertainment thriving on live traditional music. You might even want to check if Ireland's National Events Centre has any upcoming concerts. Past artists have included Willie Nelson, Cliff Richard, The Script, Snow Patrol, Bob Geldof, Billy Connolly, Kenny Rogers, and Jose Carreras.

For even more information, check out this amazing guide to the best things to do in Killarney. It contains a long list of activities and other useful advice.

Sightseeing Tips

Hiking:
Hiking in KillarneyAdventurers will find the hiking around Killarney to be excellent. 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.

A nice way to explore destinations in Killarney is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park for $38 details
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney for $36 details
  • Ring of Kerry: Portmagee and Skellig Ring Tour from Killarney for $81 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Killarney

The nightlife scene in Killarney is relatively peaceful and easygoing. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $14 (€13) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Killarney per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $14
    €13
Nightlife Tips

While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Killarney. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Brewery Tour and Tasting for $26 details

Recommended


Travel cost data last updated: Feb 27, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Killarney

  • During summer, the town can get crowded and prices can rise significantly. To save money and enjoy a quieter experience, consider planning your visit for the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Traveling more slowly can help you save some cash while enjoying the beauty of the area. When you fill your days with activities, expenses can skyrocket. But taking it easy often means enjoying yourself more and spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • There aren't many public transportation options in Killarney. Renting a car or organizing a form of transport, like a tour, might be necessary. Just know that this could stretch your budget in other places.
  • You won't find many hostels in Killarney, so if you're planning on saving money with a cheap dorm, it might be time to reconsider. A budget hotel or an apartment rental could be a better option.
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Traveling in Killarney
Killarney Muckross House, Killarney, Ireland

Rated by TripAdvisor as Ireland's most popular travel destination for 2015, Killarney attracts many visitors each year for its natural heritage, history, and its location on the Ring of Kerry (a 179-km-long circular tourist route in County Kerry, south-western Ireland). Dating back to early Irish history with religious settlements, Killarney's rich history lays evident in the ruins of various abbeys, monasteries, and castles. The archaeological sites are popular with tourists as well as the town's natural wonders, gift shops, pubs, and horse-drawn carriages.



Neighborhoods & Around

The largest industry of Killarney is, by far, tourism, and so the town caters to visitors in shops, pubs, places to stay, and attractions. With the exception of Dublin, there are more hotel beds in Killarney than in any other Irish town or city. Most tourists come from the US, Ireland, the UK, Germany and other European countries, and the summer season is the busiest. The town center is quaint and welcoming, lined with small shops, pubs, and inns. It is also common to see horse-drawn carriages, called jaunting cars, catering to tourists. Killarney is also home to Ireland's National Events Center which seats 2,500 and host events and concerts throughout the year, adding to the town's lively night life.

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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