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

Should you visit Delft or Dublin?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Delft and Dublin can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Delft

Delft is a historic, quaint, and charming town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Delft travel costs.

Dublin

Dublin is a welcoming, fun, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food. See Dublin travel costs.

Delft and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Delft or Dublin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dublin than Delft. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dublin is more touristy than Delft and is popular for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse. Delft is famous for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery.

How is Delft different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dublin is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Delft offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums that highlight the culture and history of the area. The Vermeer Center offers an immersive experience into the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in the city. The Royal Delft Factory teaches visitors about the city's iconic blue-and-white pottery. The Delft Museum of Technology and the Old Church also provide insight into the city's engineering, cultural, and religious history.

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

Dublin is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Delft. There are several local dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or a frikandel (a Dutch snack). The town has countless casual eateries and cozy cafes where you can enjoy pastries, coffee, and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken). There's also a selection of international restaurants around town that serve Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options, such as fresh herring or delicious Dutch cheese.

Is Delft or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Delft is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Dublin is a world class party destination. 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.

Delft is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It has a low-key and relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of cozy pubs, bars, and cafes, many of which are located along the scenic canals.

Is Delft or Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is a very popular place for live music. However, Delft is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Dublin while you're in town. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Delft is not a live music destination.

Is Delft or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Both Delft and Dublin have high quality historic old towns worth visiting.

Delft is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city's old town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets. The heart of the old town is centered around the Market Square, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the City Hall.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dublin. 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 Delft or Dublin?

Dublin is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Delft offers some nice shopping areas. The city center is home to many unique shops selling local crafts, Dutch design, and traditional Delftware pottery, making it a great place for souvenirs. You'll also find popular international brands and stores along the main shopping streets. For a more local shopping experience, visit the weekly market in the Market Square, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods.

Is Delft or Dublin Better for Families?

Dublin is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Dublin is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Delft. There are boat tours on the canals. There's also the Vermeer Center which has an interactive experience where you can learn about the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer, in a way that's engaging and educational. The Royal Delft Factory is another great stop, where children can see traditional blue-and-white pottery being made and even try painting their own ceramics. If your kids need to stretch their legs, there's the Delftse Hout park which has a large playground, nature trails, and even a petting zoo.

Is Delft or Dublin Better for Couples?

Dublin is a very popular place for romance. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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

Delft makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities for couples like walking through the picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. There are also quaint cafes and romantic restaurants. You can also take a boat ride along the canals or enjoy a peaceful walk through Delftse Hout park.

Is Delft or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Dublin is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Delft is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some affordable accommodation options, but many backpackers head to Delft as a day trip from the nearby city of The Hague.

Is Delft or Dublin Better for Students?

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

Delft is a great town to visit as a student. It is home to Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is a well respected technical university. The city has a vibrant student atmosphere, with plenty of student-friendly cafes, bars, and activities.

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

Delft 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 Delft can get you around easily. There's a bus network that is reliable and convenient. The city's train station is centrally located and offers direct connections to major cities in the Netherlands, making it a great hub for exploring the region.

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

Is Delft or Dublin a more walkable city?

Delft and Dublin are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Delft. The town's compact size and charming layout mean that most of the main attractions, such as the Old Church, New Church, and Market Square, are within walking distance of each other.

Getting around Dublin on foot is easy. 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 Delft Worth Visiting? and Is Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Delft?

How long in Delft or Dublin?

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

Families should spend more time in Dublin than Delft. 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 Delft. 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 Delft 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 Delft or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Delft. 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 friendly 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 Delft or Dublin?

Delft 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 Delft or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delft. 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 Delft or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Delft. 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.

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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Delft or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Delft. When comparing the sizes of Delft 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 Delft or Dublin?

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 Delft or Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Delft during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Delft for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Delft is around the same temperature as Dublin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Delft in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Dublin averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Delft. In the summer, Delft often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Delft gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun.

Delft usually gets more rain in July than Dublin. Delft gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Delft or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Delft and Dublin. The autumn months attract visitors to Delft because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

In October, Delft is generally around the same temperature as Dublin. Daily temperatures in Delft average around 11°C (51°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Delft usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during autumn. Delft gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Delft usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dublin. Delft gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Delft or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Delft as well as Dublin. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Delft this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Delft in the winter. Delft is much colder than Dublin in the winter. The daily temperature in Delft averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Delft often gets less sunshine than Dublin. Delft gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun.

Delft usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Dublin. Delft gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Delft or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Delft are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Dublin in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Delft is cooler than Dublin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Delft in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Dublin averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Delft usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin during spring. Delft gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Delft usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dublin. Delft gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Delft