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

Should you visit Basel or Dublin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Dublin, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Basel

Basel is a museum-filled, easily accessible, and beautiful city. The beauty of Basel is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Basel travel costs.

Dublin

Dublin is a friendly, welcoming, and fun city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Dublin travel costs.

Basel and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Dublin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than Basel. Dublin is bigger than Basel, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Basel is more popular for its impressive beauty. Dublin is more touristy than Basel and is known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse. Basel is well known for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Basel different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Basel or Dublin?

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Basel and Dublin.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Basel can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

Is the Food Better in Basel or Dublin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dublin is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Basel or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Dublin just to party. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Basel or Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is notable for its live music scene. However, Basel is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Basel is not a live music destination.

Is Basel or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Basel and Dublin both have superb historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Basel to see the historical old town. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Dublin?

Both Basel and Dublin are superb shopping destinations.

Basel is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Is Basel or Dublin More Beautiful?

Basel is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Dublin is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Basel is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Situated along the river, this city is beautiful to explore on foot.

Dublin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Basel or Dublin Better for Families?

Basel and Dublin are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dublin. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Basel or Dublin Better for Couples?

Dublin is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Dublin is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is notable for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Basel is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Basel or Dublin Better for Students?

Basel is a great destination for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Basel is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Is Basel or Dublin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

The public transit in Basel can get you around easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

While Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Basel or Dublin a more walkable city?

Basel and Dublin both are amazing when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Basel on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Dublin. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Basel?

How long in Basel or Dublin?

In either Basel or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dublin than Basel because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Basel, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dublin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than Basel 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 Dublin.

One day in Basel or Dublin?

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

In Dublin, many people enjoy the live music and food that this fun destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Basel or Dublin?

Basel 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Basel or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Basel. 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.

Dublin is a fun place to experience. In Dublin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Basel or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Basel. This city 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Basel or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Basel and Dublin, 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 Basel or Dublin?

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 Basel or Dublin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Dublin. The summer months attract visitors to Basel because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

Basel is a little warmer than Dublin in the summer. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Basel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Basel usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Dublin. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Basel or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Basel as well as Dublin. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Basel is a little warmer than Dublin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Basel in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Dublin averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Dublin. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Dublin in the Winter?

Both Dublin and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dublin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Basel. In January, Basel is generally much colder than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 3°C (37°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Basel usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives more rain than Dublin. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Basel or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Basel during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Basel in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dublin for the activities around the city during these months.

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

In the spring, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Dublin. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Basel