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

Should you visit Killarney or Lille?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Killarney and Lille 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.

Killarney

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

Lille

Lille is a historic, under-rated, and fascinating city. Lille is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lille travel costs.

Killarney and Lille: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Killarney or Lille?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lille. Although Killarney and Lille are popular destinations, Lille has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lille is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Killarney attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Killarney is more touristy than Lille and is known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Lille is famous for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene. It is also well known for Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle).

Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle)
Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle)

How is Killarney different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Killarney or Lille?

Killarney
Lille

Both Killarney and Lille have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Killarney is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

Lille offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.


Is the Food Better in Killarney or Lille? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Killarney
Lille

Lille is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Lille have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

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 Killarney or Lille Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Lille

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

Lille is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

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 Killarney or Lille Better for its Old Town?

Killarney
Lille

Lille is well known for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Lille is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Killarney or Lille Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Lille

Killarney is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Killarney or Lille?

Killarney
Lille

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

Lille is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Killarney or Lille More Beautiful?

Killarney
Lille

Lille is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

Lille is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is all about the historic architecture, which give it a lot of beauty. The buildings in the old town have very ornate details.

Killarney is a beautiful place to visit, too. Located on the banks of Lough Leane and beside Killarney National Park, this town offers access to great natural beauty. It's also a stop on the famous Ring of Kerry scenic drive.


Is Killarney or Lille Better for Families?

Killarney
Lille

Killarney is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Killarney is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Lille is a family-friendly town. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Killarney or Lille Better for Couples?

Killarney
Lille

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

Killarney is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Lille is a good town for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Killarney or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Lille

Killarney and Lille are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Killarney is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Lille. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.


Is Killarney or Lille Better for Students?

Killarney
Lille

Lille is well known for students. However, Killarney is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Lille. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Killarney is not popular with students.

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

Killarney
Lille

Lille 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 Lille. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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

Is Killarney or Lille a more walkable city?

Killarney
Lille

Lille is terrific for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Lille on foot is easy. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

Killarney is not a very walkable town. 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 Killarney Worth Visiting? and Is Lille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lille or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Lille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Killarney and Lille. In our opinion, Lille has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lille than Killarney. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Killarney, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lille.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lille 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 Lille.


  • How many days in Killarney or Lille? Ideal Length of Stay
    Killarney 2-3 
    Lille 1-3

One day in Killarney or Lille?

In Killarney, many people enjoy the food and museums that this peaceful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Lille. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lille has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Killarney or Lille?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Killarney. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Lille. 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.

Five days in Killarney or Lille?

Killarney is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Lille. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Killarney or Lille?

You'll find museums and food around the natural destination of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lille 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Lille or Killarney?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Killarney is €201, while the average daily cost in Lille is €146. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Killarney and Lille in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Lille 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Lille 110
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Lille

Looking for a hotel in Killarney or Lille? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Killarney


Hotels in Lille


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Killarney Hotel Prices and Lille Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Lille 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lille

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lille:

  • Lille Private Transfer from Lille Airport (LIL) to City centre: $66
  • Lille Private Transfer from Lille city centre to Lille Airport (LIL): $66
  • Toulouse Airport private transfer to Toulouse City center: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Lille?

Prices for flights to both Lille and Killarney change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Killarney 80
    Lille 72

Typical Food Prices in Lille

Some typical examples of dining costs in Lille are as follows:


  • Dinner for 2
    37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lille

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lille.

  • A Food Tour To Discover Sweet Specialties Of The City: $41

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    Lille 16

Tours and Activities in Killarney

Here are a few actual costs in Killarney for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Killarney National Park Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $18
  • Killarney Hop - On, Hop - Off Tour: $18
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $20
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall: $24
  • Lakes of Killarney Cruise: $24
  • Boat Tour to Innisfallen Island, Killarney Lakes: $25
  • Orienteering Boat Tour on the Lakes of Killarney: $29
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on the Tralee to Fenit Greenway: $30
  • Lakes Boat Tour, Meeting of the Waters: $31
  • NO 1 Ring of Kerry Tour inc Killarney Lakes & National Park: $36
  • Best Ring of Kerry Tour ex Killarney inc Killarney National Park: $36
  • Killarney Carriage Tours National Park and Lakes: $41

Tours and Activities in Lille

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Lille are as follows:

  • Lille Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $4.78
  • Lille Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $5.77
  • Self Guided Secrets Tour Explore Lille and Miss Nothing: $5.85
  • Lille Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $9.55
  • Hidden Ypres: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Historical tour of Lille by a passionate local resident: $16
  • Vieux Lille 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour: $18
  • Lille City Tour: $19
  • Entry ticket to the Museum of Illusions: $22
  • Immersive guided tour of old Lille in 1913: $24
  • Villa Cavrois Entry Ticket: $24
  • Discover Tournai while playing! Escape game - The alchemist: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Killarney 13
    Lille 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Skellig Six18 Distillery Tours: $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Lille

Also in Lille, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Lille International Pub Crawl with Free Shots & Fun Games: $15
  • Lille International Pub Crawl with Free Shots & fun Games: $30


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

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


Which is Bigger, Killarney or Lille?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney and Lille, 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 Killarney or Lille?

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 Killarney or Lille in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Killarney is cooler than Lille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Killarney in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Lille averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lille this time of the year. Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Lille during summer. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Killarney usually receives more rain than Lille. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    Lille 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Lille in the Autumn?

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

In October, Killarney is generally around the same temperature as Lille. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 12°C (53°F), and Lille fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Lille. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Killarney usually gets more rain in October than Lille. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    Lille 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Lille in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lille. Killarney is much warmer than Lille in the winter. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Lille fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Killarney usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lille during winter. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. In January, Killarney usually receives more rain than Lille. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Killarney 7°C (44°F) 
    Lille 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Lille in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Killarney is around the same temperature as Lille. Typically, the spring temperatures in Killarney in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Lille averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Killarney often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lille. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in April than Lille. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    Lille 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Lille and Killarney

Killarney Lille
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)