best for travel limerick

The 12 Best Things to do in Limerick, Ireland

From water sports to castles, and everything in between

mikroman6/Getty Images

Found in the province of Munster , Limerick is one of the largest cities in the Republic of Ireland . It is located about a half-hour from Shannon Airport .

Known for its medieval history and Georgian architecture , the city sits on the banks of the River Shannon, Ireland's longest river. It's location and rich cultural offerings means Limerick is a great city for everything from museums to outdoor activities. And even if you don't want to play yourself, you can certainly enjoy a lively match of rugby or hurling — two sports the city is especially well known for.

From visiting the castle to shopping at Ireland's best farmers market, Limerick has tons to do and we've picked the top 12.

Wander the Royal Halls of King John's Castle

William Murphy/Flickr/ CC BY-SA 2.0

Set majestically on the banks of the Shannon River right in the heart of Limerick, King John's Castle has been a part of the city landscape since it was built in 1200. The castle was constructed on top of an earlier Viking settlement which dates back to the 9th century. However, the stone walls and towers that can be seen today were all built during Norman times. It is thought to be one of the best-preserved castles from the period in all of Europe. Today there is a modern visitor’s center with interactive exhibits as well as a small café that serves drinks and snacks overlooking the castle’s internal courtyard. 

Kayak down the Shannon

Nevsail Watersports

The Shannon River runs through the heart of Limerick, but most people simply use the bridges to cross its banks. For a truly unique Limerick experience, get onto the water to see the city from a different angle. You can join a kayaking tour to paddle down river while taking in sights like King John's Castle, learning facts about the area, and getting a little workout while you are at it.

Peruse the Collection at the Hunt Museum

 Hunt Museum 

John and Gertrude Hunt were antique dealers by trade but their love for peculiar and unique pieces meant that they managed to build a huge personal collection of art and antiquities during their lifetimes. Today the collection of 2,500 artifacts, including drawings by Picasso and works by Renoir, is displayed inside Limerick’s 18th-century Customs House. The museum offers free tours included in the price of admission to help you navigate the extensive collection.

Join a Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle

Mustang79/Getty Images

Technically just over the County line in Co. Clare, Bunratty Castle is only about a 15-minute drive from the heart of Limerick City. Ireland is brimming with castles, but this medieval dream is the best restored of them all . Get a taste for what life would have been like at the castle by sitting down to join the Earl of Thomond (and all of his costumed staff) for a four-course dinner in the halls of the castle. Kids will also love the Bunratty Folk Park next door, which re-creates a 19th-century Irish village complete with actors who explain the history behind the traditions the park tries to preserve.

Experience Ancient Ireland at Grange Stone Circle

Peter Zelei/Getty Images

The Grange Stone Circle in Lough Gur sits outside of the Limerick City and is well worth the short drive to see one of Ireland’s largest stone circles. The mysterious ancient site dates back to the Neolithic age and is near perfect condition. It is made up of 113 large stones, the biggest of which weighs close to 40 tons. The Lough Gur lake is surrounded by several other megalithic monuments but Grange is the most impressive of them all. 

Shop at the Milk Market

Don Moloney/ The Milk Market

Bringing back Limerick’s tradition of fresh markets, the Milk Market is a shopping extravaganza. Come out to support local businesses and pick up homegrown produce, fresh baked goods, Irish cheese, hot cooked meal, and even vintage clothes. Set inside a historic building, the Milk Market is considered one of the best farmer’s markets in all of Ireland and is the perfect stop for the fun atmosphere and delicious local treats, particularly on Saturday morning. 

Remember History at the Treaty Stone

Luke Maurice Curley/Flickr/ CC BY-SA 2.0

This stone set on a pedestal is one of Limerick’s most iconic monuments. Found along the river, the landmark commemorates the 1691 Treaty of Limerick which put an end to the bloody Williamite War . The end of the war was particularly felt in Limerick, which had been controlled by Jacobite forces but then fell under siege from August to October of 1691. When the Jacobites and the supporters of William of Orange finally agreed to a treaty, it was reportedly signed on this oddly-shaped piece of limestone.

Stop for Tea at Adare Manor

Adare Manor 

Adare is one of the most charming villages in Co. Limerick and located a short 20-minute drive from the center of the city. The small streets are filled with thatch-roofed houses, but the true star of the village is the majestic Adare Manor. One of Ireland's best castle hotels , the manor house was first built by the 2nd Earl of Dunraven in the 1830s and is surrounded by woodland trails and gardens. Now a five-star hotel, Adare Manor is a dreamy location for a leisurely afternoon tea served with buttery scones and creative, delicate desserts.

Listen to Live Music at the Locke Bar

The Locke Bar

After the sun sets on a day of sightseeing in Limerick, head to the lively Locke Bar for an evening of traditional Irish music. The popular bar has live music seven days a week and Irish dancing to go along with it. The Locke Bar also serves great pub food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, all a short walk from King John's Castle in the center of the city.

Catch a GAA or Rugby Match

 Image Source/Getty Images

Limerick is a huge sporting town and no trip to the city would be complete without watching one of the teams compete. It is the most famous town in Ireland for rugby, and the move known as the Garryowen was invented here. If you are a GAA fan (Gaelic Athletic Association), the local hurling team (an Irish field sport) also won the All-Ireland Championships in 2018.

Warm up at Jack Mondays

Jack Monday's Coffee House

Often voted the best cafe by Limerick locals, this casual restaurant is known for its unbeatable view. On sunny days there is outdoor seating overlooking the Shannon and King John's Castle but it’s still a favorite on rainy days for its simple and satisfying home cooking. Also a coffee house, you can stop here to catch your breath after exploring Limerick and indulge in one of their decadent marshmallow-loaded hot chocolates. 

Walk the River

 Walter Bibikow/Getty Images

When the weather is nice, the best way to see Limerick is to explore the area along the waterfront. To experience the updated pathways and special conservation area, start at the Guinness Bridge and follow the curves in the river to the boathouse at the University of Limerick. Then, keep the outdoor exploration going by joining local fitness-lovers on a popular walk which crosses the three bridges in the center of Limerick. The route starts at Arthur's Quay Park and loops through the city, passing many of the iconic monuments mentioned in this list!

Ireland's Province of Munster - an Introduction

Your Trip to Ireland: The Complete Guide

The Top 20 Places to See in Ireland

The 10 Best Restaurants in Limerick, Ireland

20 Best Things to Do in Dublin

The 11 Best Castles to Visit in Ireland

How to Spend 5 Days in Ireland

The Top 22 Things to Do in Ireland

The Province of Connacht

Craggaunowen: The Complete Guide

Visiting County Westmeath in Ireland

14 Best Things to Do in Galway City

The Best Small Towns in Ireland

Traditional Music Sessions in Ireland

The Top 10 Things to Do in Kilkenny

The 14 Best Things to Do in Cork City, Ireland

Home » Travel Guides » Ireland » 15 Best Things to Do in Limerick (Ireland)

15 Best Things to Do in Limerick (Ireland)

A city on a grid plan, Limerick is Ireland’s third urban centre and the third strongest economy after Dublin and Cork.

This bustling port on the Shannon Estuary fuelled a wave of construction in Georgian times, when the elegant Newtown Pery quarter was born.

Earlier, in 1691, Limerick was where the Williamite War reached its conclusion, ushering in tough times for Ireland’s Catholics.

The stone that the Treaty of Limerick was signed on is just across the river from the mighty King John Castle, dating to the 13th century and recently upgraded as a world-class visitor attraction.

Limerick was also where the author Frank McCourt grew up in poverty, while the Hunt Museum has a thrilling jumble of curiosities, from a Gauguin painting to Medieval religious art.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Limerick :

1. King John’s Castle

At the start of this decade Limerick’s fabled castle on the River Shannon was given a multimillion-Euro update.

A new visitor centre was added, along with interactive exhibitions, touch-screens and CGI displays.

These tell the tale of one of Europe’s most complete Norman castles, ordered by King John of England in 1210. Kids can open drawers to learn more about the castle and interact with projections, while the visitor centre goes into depth on the complicated archaeology of the site.

There are excavated houses pre-dating Norman times, siege mines and a battlement walk beside the Shannon.

In the summer holidays the courtyard has characters like a stonemason, blacksmith or soldier recalling old times.

Also added in 2013 is a welcoming cafe looking over the courtyard and river.

2. St Mary’s Cathedral

Founded in 1168, St Mary’s Cathedral is the oldest monument in the city that continues to be a part of daily life.

The church is believed to have been built on the site of a Viking “Thing”, or meeting place, and incorporated elements from a Viking palace around the Great West Door.

The 37-metre tower dates to the 1200s and has eight bells cast at the Whitechapel Foundry in London.

In the Chapel of the Virgin Mary you’ll find the altar, which stands four metres high and was carved from a single block of limestone.

This was taken from the church around 1651, when Cromwell turned this space into stables, and wouldn’t be replaced until the 1960s.

The Glentworth Chapel meanwhile has cannonballs fired during the Siege of Limerick in 1691.

3. Hunt Museum

The Georgian Custom House in Newtown Pery contains a riveting collection of historical artefacts and art donated by the antique dealer and antiquarian John Hunt.

Like the best museums the Hunt is a big mishmash, with more than 2,500 objects, as diverse as an Ancient Egyptian amulet, paintings by Renoir, Gauguin and Picasso, a bronze horse attributed to Leonardo da Vinci (but recently disproven) and tons of religious artefacts.

One of the outstanding pieces is the Antrim Cross, made of bronze and enamel and produced in the 800s.

Also unmissable are the dresses by haute couture designer Sybil Connolly, and two paintings by Jack Butler Yeats.

4. Frank McCourt Museum

The author Frank McCourt won the Pulitzer Prize in 1996 for Angela’s Ashes, a humorous but also grim memoir of his childhood in Limerick in the 1930s and 40s.

Housed in the Leamy School, which McCourt attended, the Frank McCourt Museum recalls the hardship of daily life in the city in that period.

You can visit a classroom from the 1930s and see inside the McCourt home, based on historical research and McCourt’s own recollections.

In display cases are photos and other pieces of memorabilia donated by former pupils, while murals show Limerick’s notorious “Lanes”, McCourt cycling to work and his mother, Angela, who raised him single-handedly.

After the author passed away in 2009 some of his ashes were presented to the museum and are in a box above McCourt’s old classroom.

5. Milk Market

One of Ireland’s finest farmers’ markets, the Milk Market is a dream for people who care about where their food comes from.

The complex was refurbished in the 90s, and sits under a large canopy or “big top” which has become a stage for live music.

The big market day is Saturday, when you can buy produce and delicacies from the people who rear, catch, grow or make them.

This might be artisan cheese, prime cuts of meat, fresh fish, organic fruit and vegetables, chutneys, bread out of the oven or homemade preserves.

There are more than 50 stalls and 21 permanent shops, most of which also trade on Fridays and Sundays.

6. Newtown Pery

The name for one of the three distinct towns in central Limerick, Newtown Pery is the retail district just to the north of the city centre.

The quarter was laid out when Limerick was a booming port between the 1750s and 1830s.

Newtown Pery is rare in Ireland as it’s all plotted on a grid plan, and also has some of the country’s most striking Georgian architecture outside of Dublin.

The area has suffered a little since the late-20th century, as commerce moved out to suburban malls.

But that does nothing to detract from the splendour of the 200-year-old flat-fronted properties around Rutland Street and the Crescent.

7. Thomond Park

Anyone who knows anything about rugby will be well aware of Munster (The Red Army), one of the top teams in the Northern Hemisphere.

Munster have won the European Rugby Champions Cup twice and the Pro14 three times, finishing runners-up in 2017 to Wales’ Scarlets.

If you can get hold of tickets you’ll be treated to a high-quality match: In 2018 11 of the Irish National Team selected for the Six Nations were Munster players.

Munster was also the team of the great Ronan O’Gara, the fourth-highest points scorer in the history of test rugby.

The stadium, renowned for its atmosphere, was redeveloped in 2008 and has a capacity of 26,350.

8. People’s Park

In Newtown Pery, the People’s Park was imagined in the first decades of the 19th century as a grand Georgian place in the vein of Mountjoy Square in Dublin.

But the development was curtailed by the Great Famine, and only one terrace of flat-fronted mansions was completed.

The park was opened in 1877 and is the main parcel of greenery in the centre of the city.

Apart from the bandstand, two gazebos, and a dainty drinking fountain (one of only two left in Ireland), what makes the park special is its king-sized trees planted in the 19th century.

Between the rambling paths are elms, hawthorns, beeches, ashes, birches, planes, poplars and the cherry and crabapple trees that bloom in spring.

9. St John’s Cathedral

Limerick’s Catholic cathedral was conceived by the English architect Philip Charles Hardwick and completed in 1861. The 94-metre tower, a constant part of the city’s skyline, dates to 1882 and was built with limestone quarried not far away in Rosbrien.

More than 130 years later it remains the tallest structure in Limerick.

Inside, seek out the “cathedra”, or bishop’s chair, which along with the choir stalls were carved in Munich in 1894. The altar meanwhile was fashioned from Limerick marble and has alabaster sculptures representing the Sacrifice of Isaac.

10. Limerick City Museum

Free to enter, the Limerick City Museum is a diverting cabinet of curiosities, with interesting things from many different fields.

You can inspect archaeological finds from the Stone Age and Iron Age, or the scabbard owned by the revolutionary Lord Edward FitzGerald that he used while resisting arrest when he was killed in 1798. There are 60,000 items in the museum’s collection, including blunderbuss guns from the 17th and 18th centuries, 200-year-old Limerick silver, clothes like a gentleman’s suit from 1706 and a piece of the Adare meteorite of 1813, the largest ever to hit the British Isles (as they were at the time).

11. Limerick City Gallery of Art

In a solemn Romanesque Revival hall from 1906, the Limerick City Gallery of Art has Irish art every medium, from the 18th to the 21st centuries.

The permanent exhibition draws on a collection with works by eminent names Grace Henry, Jack Butler Yeats, Paul Henry and Seán Keating.

The gallery also holds the National Collection of Contemporary Drawing and the Michael O’Connor International Poster Collection.

Check the events calendar when you’re in town, as there’s are talks and workshops, along with several concurrent exhibitions for contemporary Irish art.

For instance, in early 2018 there was a compelling show for the textile artist Bernadette Cotter.

12. The Treaty Stone

The Williamite War came to an end in this city in 1691 with the second Siege of Limerick.

Catholic Irish and French Jacobite forces were eventually defeated by the Protestant Williamites, from Ulster, England, Scotland, the Netherlands and Denmark.

The Treaty of Limerick was signed on 3 October 1691, and was a turning point in Irish history, leading to the “Flight of the Wild Geese”, when 24,000 Catholics left the country for France.

The Treaty of Limerick was soon broken, and Ireland’s Catholic population would later suffer under the oppressive Penal Laws for more than a century.

This stone on the Clare end of the Thomond Bridge has a pedestal with a hunk of stone believed to have been used to write the treaty.

13. Lough Gur

Irish prehistory is always gripping, so you should be sure not to miss this archaeological site 20 kilometres south of Limerick.

In hilly countryside, Lough Gur is a horseshoe lake with all sorts of megalithic remains on its banks.

This pocket of land has been occupied by humans for more than 5,000 years, and has ring forts on the higher ground, traces of Stone Age houses, the Grange stone circle and three crannogs (Neolithic artificial islands). The visitor centre sums up the history of the lake and its shores, and will give you an audio guide for the outdoor trail, pointing out the circular footprints of the stone age houses and filling you in on extra historical details and folk tales.

14. Ballyhoura Mountains

In an east-to-west line for 10 kilometres, the Ballyhoura Mountains are a row of peaks straddling the counties of Cork and Limerick.

The sunnier southern slopes are under a blanket of deep coniferous forest, while in the north there’s misty heathland and blanket bog.

The highest peak is Seefin on the northwest side at 528 metres, accompanied by five other mountains, all over 350 metres.

What brings many day-trippers to the range is the Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Park, the largest set of trails in Ireland, adding up to 98 kilometres.

These can be the Greenwood loop for newcomers, or the epic 50-kilometre Castlepook loop for serious riders.

15. Curraghchase Forest Park

Go southwest of Limerick on the N69 and after a brief drive you’ll come to an idyllic former noble estate, now a 313-hectare public park.

On a smooth ridge beside a man-made lake is the shell of Curraghchase House, going back to the mid-17th century and gutted by fire in 1941. The highly-regarded poet and critic Aubrey Thomas de Vere was born here, while his close friend Alfred, Lord Tennyson would often visit and wrote his work Lady Clara de Vere in homage.

The estate has expansive lawns and mixed forest with towering conifers that date back centuries.

There’s also more historical interest in a cairn and standing stone, and the earthworks of ancient forts.

15 Best Things to Do in Limerick (Ireland):

• King John's Castle
• St Mary's Cathedral
• Hunt Museum
• Frank McCourt Museum
• Milk Market
• Newtown Pery
• Thomond Park
• People's Park
• St John's Cathedral
• Limerick City Museum
• Limerick City Gallery of Art
• The Treaty Stone
• Ballyhoura Mountains
• Curraghchase Forest Park

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Limerick

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Shandley McMurray Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Emerald Isle's first "Irish City of Culture," Limerick has come a long way from its rocky, siege-ridden start. The third largest city in the Irish Republic, this is a great place to enjoy art, music, shopping, and good food that can compete with any bustling metropolis. There are a ton of interesting things to do in Limerick to keep travelers busy.

Limerick is conveniently located about 24 kilometers from Shannon International Airport , on a picturesque island set between the rivers Shannon and Abbey. Within its borders, you'll find a healthy mix of old meets new: large Georgian buildings and a stunning historic castle mixed with modern art museums and eclectic shops. English Town lies in the north of town, offering multiple nods to the area's storied past. South of the Abbey River are the more modern Irish Town and upmarket Newtown Pery districts.

Interestingly, the famous "limerick" poems didn't necessarily originate in the city, but were probably first conceived in England.

As well as taking in the city's must-see attractions, visitors should see the surrounding Shannon area with such gems as picturesque Adare village and medieval Bunratty Castle .

To help you get the most out of your time here, be sure to refer to our list of the top tourist attractions in Limerick.

See also: Where to Stay in Limerick

1. King John's Castle

2. st. mary's cathedral, 3. st. john's square and cathedral, 4. limerick city gallery of art, 5. the hunt museum, 6. the limerick museum, 7. people's park, 8. newtown pery, 9. glenstal abbey, 10. lough gur prehistoric site, 11. adare & adare manor, 12. foynes flying boat & maritime museum, 13. bunratty castle and folk park, 14. day trip to the cliffs of moher, 15. tour the ring of kerry, 16. milk market, 17. thomond park, 18. the treaty stone, where to stay in limerick for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in limerick, limerick, ireland - climate chart.

Starting from Sarsfield Bridge, a leisurely 15-minute walk takes visitors to King John's Castle, arguably the city's most photographed structure and one of the best tourist attractions in Limerick. En-route, with short detours, are the Hunt and Limerick City Museums . The 13th-century castle stands to the right of Thomond Bridge and rises imposingly above the Shannon.

The pentagonal fortress, with a main block, three round corner towers, a bastion, and a two-story gatehouse has been thoroughly restored and is the historic jewel in Limerick's crown.

Parts of the complex now serve as exhibition rooms. The history of Ireland and Limerick are brought to life by means of reconstructed scenes. In addition, there's a video display, information about the excavation of Viking houses, defensive works, and siege tunnels.

Address : Nicholas Street, Limerick

Official site: www.kingjohnscastle.com

St. Mary's Cathedral is one of Ireland's secluded jewels. A place of worship has occupied this site since 1168. The West Doorway , originally the entrance to the former Royal Palace, dates from the 12th century, and it's claimed that marks on the surrounding stonework were made by defenders of the city sharpening their swords during various sieges. This door is now only used during ceremonial occasions when those wishing to enter must knock first before entry is granted.

A stroll through the interior takes visitors through a timeline dating from the early medieval ages to the present day. The vaulted roof, gothic stained glass windows, medieval floor tiles, and elaborately carved 17th-century choir stalls and marble tombs all bear witness to a tumultuous past.

Address: Bridge Street, Limerick

Official site: www.saintmaryscathedral.ie

About a 10-minute walk from St. Mary's Cathedral, St. John's Square consists of 10 fine stone-faced Georgian townhouses dating from around 1750. The houses fell into serious decay over the centuries, and by the 1970s were derelict and ready to be demolished. Thankfully this didn't happen due to a combination of private and public funding. Recently, a further one million euros was spent upgrading the location.

The adjacent early-Gothic St. John's Cathedral (named after St. John the Baptist who is said to have a connection to the city through the Knights Templar) boasts the highest church spire in Ireland.

Address: St. John's Square, Limerick

The Limerick City Gallery of Art is housed in the 1906 Romanesque Carnegie Building. The building was funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919) and was originally called The Carnegie Free Library and Museum. It's now one of Ireland's leading contemporary art galleries and displays an impressive collection of Irish 18th- to 21st-century art.

The gallery is also home to the Michael O'Connor International Poster Collection and the National Collection of Contemporary Drawing. Adjacent to the gallery is People's Park on Georgian-styled Pery Square.

Address: Carnegie Building, Pery Square, Limerick

Official site: www.gallery.limerick.ie

The Hunt Museum was established in 1974 after a sizeable donation of important works of art and antiquities from the family after which it's named. It has since become one of the most important cultural attractions in Limerick.

Consisting of more than 2,000 interesting pieces donated by John and Gertrude Hunt, along with numerous items added since, this impressive collection is housed in the city's old Customs House, an impressive structure built in the 1700s that was renovated specifically for the purpose.

Highlights of a visit include a chance to see works by Renoir and Picasso, as well as medieval and Celtic artifacts, including tools and weapons. There's also an impressive array of historically significant jewelry and coins. Free one-hour guided tours are available, and with advance notice they can focus on a particular theme or interest. A café and gift shop are located on-site.

Also worth a visit is the Frank McCourt Museum , a small affair consisting of a 1930s period schoolroom and exhibits telling the story of the life of the famous Pulitzer Prize-winning local author of Angela's Ashes .

Address: The Custom House, Rutland Street, Limerick, Ireland

Official site: www.huntmuseum.com .

Although opened in 1916, the Limerick Museum has only been housed in its current location in the attractive old Henry Street friary since 2017. Regarded as one of the top free things to do in Limerick, this important local attraction focuses on collecting and preserving artifacts related to the city's long and rich history.

With more than 60,000 items dating from the Stone Age right up to today, highlights of a visit include a chance to see a rare collection of Limerick lace, local silverware, as well as clothing and weaponry.

Also of interest is the largest meteorite to land in this part of Europe (it actually made contact with the earth in Limerick). While you needn't spend too long exploring the museum (it isn't very large), it's certainly worth a visit.

Address: Henry Street, Limerick

Official site: http://museum.limerick.ie

Located beside the Limerick City Gallery of Art , People's Park is the most popular green space in Limerick. Dating from 1877, this is a tranquil oasis and the city's main park, a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic, bathe in the rare sunshine, or merely enjoy a wander in the fresh air.

A large selection of mature deciduous and evergreen trees dot the park and, during the spring and summer, visitors can admire a wonderful display of flowers. Other features include a memorial on a giant pillar to Thomas Spring-Rice (MP for Limerick from 1820-1832), a 19th-century bandstand, an ornate drinking fountain, and two gazebos.

Also known as the Georgian Quarter , Newtown Pery is where you'll find the most buzz in Limerick. This historic region serves as the city's central shopping district, which is why so many tourists spend the majority of their time here. The area was built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, maintaining its charm in the Georgian buildings that now house modern shops.

In addition to the fun shops and restaurants lining the streets, you'll find attractions like the People's Park, Limerick City Gallery, Frank McCourt Museum, and St. Michael's Church in this lovely spot. It encompasses the area between Henry and Parnell Streets and Roches and Wolfe Tone Streets.

No. 1 Pery Square is one of the best hotels in Limerick, and it's conveniently located in the heart of the Newtown Pery district. Housed in a Georgian terrace, this boutique hotel offers pretty views of People's Park, afternoon tea, a phenomenal restaurant, and a relaxing spa.

Under half-an-hours' drive from Limerick city along the R445 and R506 brings visitors to beautiful Benedictine Glenstal Abbey set on a serene 500-acre estate. Day visitors are welcome to visit the grounds and the church, and those who wish can attend the liturgy.

Scenic walks meander around the grounds, which are adorned with beautiful trees and flowers and provide a sanctuary for wildlife. The remains of Ireland's old oak forest lie along the perimeter.

It should be noted that while the school buildings and playing fields are not normally open to the public, visitors can browse the wide range of books and souvenirs in the gift shop (generally open daily).

Address : Garranbane, Murroe, Co. Limerick

Official site: www.glenstal.org

The captivating Lough Gur Prehistoric Site is a visit-worthy gem situated nearly 26 kilometers from Glenstal at Holy Cross. It lies on the bow-shaped Lough Gur and has been listed as a National Monument of exceptional interest.

The site's Heritage Centre reopened in June 2013 after a facelift and now boasts state-of-the-art facilities. Visitors can explore the fascinating heritage of Lough Gur through interactive multimedia displays covering more than 6,000 years of archaeology and history.

During the 19th century, the lough was partly drained, and evidence of occupation going back to the Neolithic period was found. Notable features include a wedge-shaped passage grave, stone forts, a Neolithic burial site, a burial mound with a circle of standing stones, a fine double stone circle, a crannog (an artificial islet now linked to the shore), and a cult site with an almost monumental entrance.

There are also two medieval structures: 16th-century Bourchier's Castle and 14th-century Black Castle, in addition to a ruined 17th-century church.

Address: Lough Gur, Co. Limerick

Official site: http://loughgur.com/

You'll find the quaint Adare village and magnificent Adare Manor a 25-kilometer drive from Lough Gur via the R512 and 511. The charming village hugs the wooded west bank of the River Maigue on the busy road leading to Killarney .

With its thatched roofs and old grey-walled church, Adare has something of the air of an English hamlet. The arched stone bridge gives an attractive view of the beautifully planted banks of the river and old buildings in the background.

Presiding over a park, the 1832 neo-Gothic mansion, Adare Manor, was transformed into a luxury hotel some years ago. The principal rooms, including the hall and picture gallery, are open to the public, while the Tea Room affords pleasant views of the gardens and terraces.

On the banks of the river that runs through the park are the ruins of 13th-century Desmond Castle , a beautiful sight with its round towers and vine-draped walls.

Address: Adare, Co. Limerick

Official site: http://www.adaremanor.com/en/

About a 40-minute drive from Adare, Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum is a must-see for aviation and 20th-century history enthusiasts. Housed in the old Foynes terminal building, this is where flying boats would make their post Atlantic stopovers.

There's a comprehensive range of exhibits and graphic illustrations including a Radio and Weather Room, an authentic 1940s cinema, and a full sized replica B314 flying boat. Budding aviators can practice on one of the flight simulators.

Address: Aras Ide, Main Street, Ballynacragga North, Foynes, Co. Limerick

Official site: http://www.flyingboatmuseum.com/

Just over 15-minutes' drive from Limerick city on the N18 and E20 is one of Ireland's most renowned and fun attractions, the much-loved Bunratty Castle. No visit to the Shannon region would be complete without coming here.

Dating from 1425, the castle is the most complete and best-preserved medieval fortress in Ireland and was restored in 1954 to its former glory. It now contains mainly 15th- and 16th-century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art instilling a mood of distant medieval times. Intrepid souls can attend evening medieval banquets during which certain guests may be banished to the dungeons below.

The Folk Park is a recreation of how Ireland was more than a century ago. Occupying 26 rural acres, the park encompasses more than 30 buildings in a "living" village. Farmhouses, village shops, and streets are recreated and furnished as they would have appeared at that time according to their social standing, from the poorest one-room dwelling to Bunratty House (1804).

This impressive Georgian residence was once home to gentry and the Studdarts, the last family to occupy Bunratty Castle. The half-acre walled kitchen garden is a particular treat.

Address: Bunratty West, Bunratty, Co. Clare

Official site: www.bunrattycastle.ie

One of the best tours from Limerick is the Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Limerick: Including the WiIld Atlantic Way . This excursion actually covers two of Ireland's most-visited attractions: the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren.

You'll enjoy incredible views from over the Atlantic as you stroll along the clifftops, which stand an impressive 214 meters tall, and you can learn more about this stunning part of the world with a visit to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center. With a bit of luck, you might even spot some of the abundant wildlife that resides here, including puffins.

The Burren section of your fun day trip also offers plenty of great opportunities for photos and memorable selfies. You'll take in some of the country's most dramatic scenery-it's largely made of rugged karst and resembles the surface of the moon-as well as such popular tourist sites as Bunratty Castle; the quaint village of Doolin, famous for its traditional Irish music; and a drive past Galway Bay.

One of the top things to do in Limerick is to hop aboard a Ring of Kerry day tour, including Killarney National Park . Sure, it's a long day trip (it lasts 11 hours), but once you return, you'll agree that it was worth every minute. All told, your bus adventure will cover the full length of this 179-kilometer-long circular route, taking in such points of interest along the way as Killarney National Park (obviously) and a number of pretty villages, such as Waterville and Sneem, plus endless picturesque scenery.

A highlight is the last stop on your journey, which takes in the spectacular Torc Waterfall. This 18-meter-tall falls is pretty no matter the season and one of the must-sees on this unique scenic driving route. The tour starts and finishes at Limerick's downtown Arthur's Quay Shopping Center.

Ireland has its fair share of farmers markets, but one of the most impressive is the Milk Market in Limerick. The market started in 1852, but the structure you see today was renovated in the 1990s and features a domed canopy, which is where you'll often be able to hear live music.

The market operates on the weekends, from Friday to Sunday, but Saturday is the big market day. This is where visitors will be able to browse from stall to stall to try everything from fresh fish and farmhouse cheeses to chutneys, sandwiches, chocolates, and tea. Sundays are held for community activities, like crafts, food, fashion, yoga, and tai chi.

Address: Cornmarket Row, Limerick, V94 R602, Ireland

Official site: https://www.milkmarketlimerick.ie /

Rugby may as well be a religion in Ireland, especially in Munster. Its home team, Munster Rugby, a.k.a. The Red Army is one of the best rugby teams in the world . Their home field is Thomond Park, the world-famous venue with capacity for 25,600 spectators.

If you can score tickets to a match, it will be one of the most exciting experiences you can have in Ireland. But in addition to rugby matches, the stadium has an interactive Museum Experience that tells the history of Munster Rugby. Visitors can take stadium tours, as well. The stadium also plays host to live music events, drawing in crowds from all over to see performers from Bob Dylan to Ed Sheeran.

Address: Cratloe Rd, Limerick, Ireland

Address: https://thomondpark.ie/

To understand the Treaty Stone, you have to understand a bit of Irish history. The Treaty of Limerick was signed in 1691, which put an end to the two-year-long Williamite War in Ireland. It was the war between William III of England (William of Orange) and his father-in-law, King James II. Because of the signing in Limerick, Limerick became known as the Treaty City.

It is said that the treaty was signed on a stone in front of both armies, on the Clare side of the Thomond Bridge across the River Shannon. Today, it is said that the stone still exists, and this historic landmark sits at the location where the treaty was signed. Originally the stone was on the opposite side of the bridge, but since 1865 has held residence on the original side of the river.

Those who appreciate Irish history, or history in general, will love this photo opportunity right outside downtown Limerick.

To help you get the most out of your time in Limerick, we've pulled together some of our favorite hotels located near top tourist attractions such as King John's Castle.

Luxury Hotels :

• For those wanting accommodations on the higher end of the price scale, No. 1 Pery Square is just the ticket. This charming, luxury boutique hotel is set in the heart of Limerick's historic Georgian quarter and features period-style rooms, a wonderful day spa, and afternoon tea.
• Other good luxury hotels to look into include The Savoy Hotel Limerick , popular for its central location, posh rooms, full-service spa, and on-site restaurant, and the Limerick Strand Hotel , which features a great location just across a bridge from the main part of the city, beautiful river views, plus a great leisure center with multiple pools.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A good mid-range offering is the Absolute Hotel , popular for its attractive riverside location, its contemporary décor, and great-value dining.
• Also worth checking out is The George Hotel Limerick , a great value boutique hotel boasting friendly staff, a great restaurant, and comfortable air-conditioned rooms.
• Although on the outskirts of the city, the bright and modern Great National South Court Hotel is another good option and comes with a choice of rooms or suites, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center with a sauna.

Budget Hotels :

• On a tighter budget? The Travelodge Limerick Ennis Road features affordable rates, clean rooms with desks, and family rooms with pull-out couches. It's an easy ride from Limerick train station and the downtown area.
• From the same well-known band, the Travelodge Limerick Castletroy is close to the city's best shopping and attractions, and features standard and family rooms (the latter sleeping up to four guests).
• Another budget-priced contender is Coonagh Lodge B&B , popular for its location four kilometers from the town center, as well as its good quality rooms and tranquil setting.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Best of Small-Town Ireland : A favorite among tourists for its many top-rated attractions, the picturesque medieval town of Kilkenny will keep you busy for hours. Highlights include the elegant Kilkenny Castle, the National Craft Gallery, and the town's two cathedrals. Also worth visiting are the northern town of Sligo , as popular with surfers as it is with culture buffs, and historic Waterford , known the world over as the home to Waterford crystal.

Ireland Vacation Ideas : The city of Dublin is a must-visit, especially for fans of great cultural attractions such as Trinity College, home to the famous 1,200-year-old Books of Kells exhibit. The country's second largest city is Cork , a popular choice of base for vacationers for its people-friendly pedestrian zones, historic markets, and picturesque parks. Galway , too, is a great place to visit and should be included on an Ireland travel itinerary, in particular for its large public square, Eyre Square, and its famous market area.

More on Ireland

Best Things to Do in Limerick, Ireland (County Guide)

Looking to discover the best things to do in Limerick, Ireland ? Then you’re in the right place. I’ve compiled the perfect list to help you plan your time in this county of Ireland.

There are some people who will bypass Limerick as they travel from Kerry to Clare or vice versa. But with this guide, you are going to discover why you should consider adding it to your Ireland itinerary. Here are some of the best things to do in County Limerick no matter what your interests are.

Adare Manor Hotel and Golf Resort

Absolute hotel.

*This post contains affiliate links, which may include Amazon affiliate links. To read more about affiliate links, please visit my Disclosure Policy page.

County Limerick is quite a sizeable county on the Emerald Isle and is the fifth largest county in Ireland. As a result, there are plenty of places to visit in Limerick, whether you are a city lover or a lover of the countryside. In this post, I am sharing a list of ideas to fill your itinerary with, including some of the top 10 things to do in Limerick, Ireland.

Best things to do in Limerick, Ireland

Whether you are looking for the top things to do in Limerick City, or fancy some Limerick sightseeing further afield, this list of things to do, see and places to visit will soon have you spending more than a day or two in this part of the Emerald Isle.

Limerick City

As Ireland’s third-largest city, Limerick City has plenty to offer those who decide to stop and explore the city for a few days.

Straddling the estuary of Ireland’s largest river, the Shannon, the city was rejuvenated when it was chosen as Ireland’s first City of Culture in 2014, particularly the waterfront area. Limerick’s history spans more than 1200 years, having been established as a Viking settlement in the 9 th century.

One of the best things to do around Limerick City is to visit King John’s Castle , the 13th-century castle that sits on the riverbank. There are lots of parts of the castle to explore, with interactive displays, and the view across the Shannon from the top of the towers is worth the climb. Book your skip-the-line tickets by clicking here .

The city also has two cathedrals to visit for those who love architecture. St Mary’s Cathedral (pictured below) was founded in the mid-12 th century and has a Romanesque doorway and 15 th -century misericords in the choir stalls with superb carvings. St John’s Cathedral has Gothic-Revival architecture and is the city’s original cathedral as it is a Roman Catholic cathedral, unlike St Mary’s which is Anglican. Both can be visited on a donation basis.

Another must-do in Limerick is the Frank McCourt Museum . Dedicated to the actor and writer, the museum is based in the former Georgian school building where McCourt taught and contains a re-creation of a 1930’s classroom and room from the McCourt household as well as family memorabilia. There is also an Angela’s Ashes Walking Tour of the city that visitors can join. Click here to book your tickets for this tour.

If you are looking for something unusual to do in Limerick, head to the Hunt Museum . This museum is also a treasure hunt and encourages visitors to open drawers and poke around while discovering artefacts from as far back as the Bronze and Iron Age. You can get skip-the-line tickets via this link .

For the sporting fans out there, Thomond Park Stadium is worth popping into. Guided tours of the stadium take place Mon-Fri (and Sat-Sun for prebooked larger groups). Visitors can view the grounds that are home to the Munster rugby team. There is also a memorabilia-filled museum.

Free things to do in Limerick city include visiting the Limerick City Gallery of Art where visitors can enjoy artworks from the last 300 years including Sean Keating and Jack B Yeats. It is located next to the People’s Park, another free thing to do in Limerick. The People’s Park is a great place to escape the city on a sunny day with a book under one of the trees.

The Limerick City Museum is another free thing to do in Limerick City and houses a large collection of artefacts documenting Limerick’s history.

Visiting the Milk Market is free and has a variety of stalls selling everything from fruit and vegetables to craft and locally baked goods.

The Treaty Stone is also free to visit and is the stone upon which the Treaty of Limerick was signed, marking the surrender of the city to William of Orange in the late 17 th century.

No matter what your interests are, there is plenty of things to see and do in Limerick City.

Discover Limerick City on a walking tour of the city. Click here to book your place now.

As with anywhere in Ireland, you will find plenty of castles in Limerick to explore. Already mentioned is the beautiful King John’s Castle in Limerick City. This large castle on the banks of the Shannon still has its two tower gateways and more to explore. It’s a great place to visit with kids who will love the interactive displays both in the museum and the castle itself. As far as Limerick tourist attractions go, this is a must-visit.io

Another one of the must-visit castles in Limerick, Ireland is Adare Desmond Castle (pictured), located a short 20-minute drive from Limerick City. Erected on an ancient ring fort in the 13 th century, it became an important strategic fortress, and its name is derived from the Earls of Desmond to whom it was granted in the mid-16 th century. Tours of the castle can be taken during the months of June to September from the Heritage Centre on the main street.

Other castles to visit in County Limerick include

• Glin Castle, Glenquin – Standing on the site of a 14 th century castle, the current castle is a late 18 th century, Georgian country house and heritage site located along the banks of the River Shannon.
• Castle Oliver – A Victorian castle in the southern part of the county, it was built for entertaining rather than defense. It can only be viewed from outside as it is now a private residence.
• Fanningstown Castle, Adare – Dating from the 12 th century, this castle in Limerick has been restored in a romantic Gothic style and is now a luxury castle holiday rental accommodation venue.
• Carigogunnell Castle, Clarina Village – A ruined medieval fortification on the banks of the River Shannon, the structure dates to the 13 th century.
• Springfield Castle, – Another castle that has been transformed into a luxury private castle rental accommodation, it sits among a 200-acre wooded estate.

Abbeys and Friaries

Another of the Limerick things to do is to visit the Friaries and Abbeys in the county. There are a few in the county worth visiting.

One of the best places to see in Limerick is the Franciscan Friary at Askeaton. Lying on the east bank of the River Deel, it was founded in the late 14th century by the 3rd Earl of Desmond. The church, cloister arcade, north transept, and domestic buildings survive today.

There is another Franciscan Friary located at Adare which, while now in ruins, is one of the most structurally complete Franciscan foundations in Ireland today. It was founded in the 15 th century and visitors can see the bell tower, cloisters, chapels, and more. This is located on the grounds of a golf course, so let them know at the clubhouse that you wish to visit.

Adare is also the location of an Augustinian Friary (pictured) whose church is still a place of worship. It retains many of its medieval features and is worth visiting while in Adare.

Other monastic sites to visit in Limerick include

• Glenstal Abbey, Murroe – A Benedictine monastery whose grounds include lakes, forests and an old walled, terraced garden.

One of the top things to do in Limerick, Ireland if you love the outdoors is to head for one of the mountains in the county and its borders.

Galtymore Mountain is the highest of the Galtee Mountains (pictured), a range that stretches for 30kms between County Limerick and County Tipperary. One of the best outdoor activities in Limerick to do is to climb Galtymore Mountain. It can be reached from King’s Yard in the south, a route that will take between 4 and 6 hours. King’s Yard is a private farm that has some parking and services for climbers and walkers.

Another one of the great outdoor things to do near Limerick is to climb Temple Hill. Also part of the Galtee Mountain range, this 11km round-trip trail offers great views across County Limerick for those who take time to climb it.

Houses & Gardens

Some of the best Limerick attractions are Mountshannon House and Knockpatrick Gardens.

Mountshannon was a mid-18 th century large mansion near Castleconnell that was home to the 1 st Earl of Clare. It was burnt down during the Anglo-Irish War in 1920 and is mostly a ruin today. But it is still worth visiting if you want to view some neo-Palladian style architecture. The front columns and most of the main wings of the house still stand today (see picture below).

Knockpatrick Gardens are one of the best places to go in Limerick if you want to wander through spectacular gardens. Almost 100 years old, the gardens were planted by the father of the current owner. It is home to a large collection of plants, shrubs, and trees including magnolias, beech, and red horse chestnuts. There are different levels with pools and water features among the plants. Open from April to September, it is a great place to visit in County Limerick.

Museums and Heritage Centres

Some of the top 10 things to do in Limerick are visiting the museums and heritage centres dotted around the county. As well as the ones located in Limerick City already mentioned, there are others that are a must if you are visiting County Limerick.

One of the best museums and top attractions in Limerick is the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, located in the town of the same name (pictured below). Housed in the original terminal building in Foynes, it is dedicated to telling the tale of when Foynes was at the centre of the aviation world. The Flying Boat Museum is home to the world’s only full-size replica of a B314 flying boat, while the Maritime Museum helps visitors learn about the River Shannon. Learn more here .

Another great place to visit is the De Valera Museum and Bruree Heritage Centre . This centre has audiovisual and graphic panels, as well as personal memorabilia that tell the story of Eamon de Valera, former President of Ireland. The visitor centre is located where de Valera grew up and the cottage in which he lived and the national school he attended now house the museum dedicated to his memory.

The Adare Heritage Centre shares the history of the town with visitors and is also the meeting point for those wishing to visit Adare Desmond Castle during the summer months. There is also a restaurant, library, craft shops and more in the Heritage Centre.

The Irish Palatine Heritage Museum is another great place to visit in Limerick to learn about the Palatines, several families of German origin, who settled in County Limerick in the early 1700s. This small museum houses an exhibition that tells their story.

If you are looking for things to do in Limerick when it is raining, why not venture to one of these great museums.

For nature-lovers, there are plenty of places to visit near Limerick to enjoy nature and the outdoors. As well as the mountains already mentioned, and Knockpatrick Gardens, there are a few other places worth mentioning.

There are no great beaches near Limerick, to enjoy a walk along a sandy beach, you need to travel south to County Kerry or north into County Clare. But in either direction, you won’t be disappointed.

Lough Gur is an area of outstanding natural beauty and gives visitors a chance to enjoy rural unspoilt beauty within easy access of Limerick City. There is a Visitor Centre where you can learn about the history and folklore of the area dating back to the Stone Age. Lough Gur lake has two castles on its shores and is often used to enjoy watersports, particularly during summer. The Grange Stone Circle, the largest standing stone circle in Ireland, is also located at Lough Gur.

If you are looking for fun things to do in Limerick, why not take to the water and enjoy a kayaking tour. Nevsail Watersports , operating from the Hunt Museum, offers a range of watersports including kayaking experiences on the River Shannon. If the water is not your thing, then the Curraghchase Forest Park offers 300 hectares of forests, woods, trails, lake, and an arboretum to explore the great outdoors.

For those who love walking, part of the Ballyhoura Way , a 90km waymarked trail, passes through County Limerick. It stretches from John’s Bridge in north County Cork to Limerick Junction in County Tipperary and offers those who walk it a chance to be surrounded by natural beauty.

Another place for walkers is the Clare Glens , a wooded area along the banks of the Clare River that separates County Limerick and Tipperary. There are looped trails to enjoy and you might even find one of the best waterfalls in Ireland along the way.

If you are looking for more unusual things to see in Limerick, why not visit the Duntryleague Passage Tomb (pictured). Built around 3500BC, it is also known as Dermot and Grania’s Bed and is a National Monument. Most of the capstones still remain although the covering cairn stone is missing.

And if you are looking for something to combine unusual with outdoor things to do in Limerick, then why not visit the Barnagh Tunnel. This railway tunnel was once part of the Limerick/Tralee Railway (now closed) but it has been added to the Great Southern Greenway Limerick after renovations. At over 100m long, the tunnel is a testament to 19 th -century engineering and can now be enjoyed by walkers and cyclists alike.

Where to stay in Limerick

Luxury hotels in limerick, no. 1 pery square hotel.

If you are looking for luxury hotels in Limerick City Centre, then No.1 Pery Square Hotel is one to consider for your Limerick stay. This boutique hotel is opposite the People’s Park and with elegant, modern rooms, French cuisine, and a spa, this is a great hotel for a luxury stay in Limerick. For the latest prices and availability, click here .

The Savoy Hotel, Limerick

Situated between King John’s Castle and Thomond Park, this boutique city centre hotel offers 3 restaurants, luxurious bedrooms, spa, and great views across the river. For a luxurious city centre stay, check into The Savoy. Click here for the latest prices and availability .

Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel

Located on the edge of Adare, just 20 minutes south of Limerick City, the Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel is a luxury hotel with an award-winning restaurant, leisure club, spa, and luxurious, elegant rooms. For the latest prices, availability and to book this hotel, click here .

Also located in Adare, this 5-star luxury hotel and golf resort is the ultimate in luxury. With luxurious rooms, a golf course, spa, health club with indoor pool, 4 restaurants, and 2 bars, this is the ideal location outside of Limerick City for a relaxing yet luxurious stay. Click here for more information and to book your stay .

Budget-friendly hotels in Limerick

Castletroy park hotel & spa.

If you don’t want to stay in the heart of the city but still be within easy reach, then the Castletroy Hotel beside Limerick University fits the bill. This 4-star luxury hotel that is also budget-friendly offers guests spacious rooms, an Aqua and Leisure Club, and a bar and restaurant. Check out the latest prices and availability here .

Clayton Hotel, Limerick

Located on the waterfront in Limerick City Centre, the Clayton is a budget-friendly hotel option with views across the river. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay, 2 restaurant choices, and a leisure centre and spa. Click here to see the latest prices and availability .

Radisson BLU Hotel & Spa

Set in 20 acres of beautiful gardens, the Radisson BLU offers luxury accommodation, a spa, award-winning cuisine at budget-friendly prices within 5 minutes drive to King John’s Castle, Thomond Park, and more of Limerick’s tourist attractions. Click here to see the latest prices, availability and to book your stay .

If you are looking to stay in the medieval quarter in Limerick, then pick the Absolute Hotel. With modern bedrooms, a restaurant overlooking the river, and an independent spa, this hotel is ideally located for easy access to St Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle, and Limerick’s shopping areas. For the latest prices, availability and to book your room, click here .

Things to know about County Limerick, Ireland

This section will give you some useful information about Limerick if you’ve never visited this part of the Emerald Isle and are considering it.

Where is County Limerick? – If you have been wondering where is Limerick, Ireland, it is in the southwest of the country, sandwiched between County Kerry and Clare. It is part of the Republic of Ireland and is bordered by Kerry to the west, Cork to the south, Clare to the north, and Tipperary to the east.

County Limerick facts :

• Limerick in Irish is Luimneach, meaning “the flat area” or “bare/barrel spot of land”.
• The county covers 2756 square kilometres (1064 square miles) and the population of County Limerick is approximately 194,900.
• It is one of the twenty-six counties of the Republic of Ireland.
• Limerick is the tenth largest county of Ireland (all 32 counties), by size and 9 th in terms of population. Limerick City is the third largest city in Ireland after Dublin and Cork.
• Limerick has several mountain ranges including Slieve Felims (northwest), the Galtees (southeast), Ballyhoura (south) and Mullaghareirk (southwest).
• Rivers that flow through County Limerick include the Camogue, Deel and the River Shannon with Limerick City sitting on the Shannon Estuary.
• Lough Gur is the biggest lake in the county.
• Notable cities towns in County Limerick – Limerick City (only city), Newcastle West, Annacotty, Castleconnell and Adare.

Weather in Limerick – Limerick has a similar climate to the rest of the Emerald Isle, with warm summers and mild, wet winters. Summer days are long with high temperatures of 20˚C (lows of 12˚C), and short, dark winter days with high temperatures of 9˚C (lows of 3˚C). Rain is common throughout the year, with April and June being the driest months. Don’t travel to Limerick at any time of the year without a raincoat and umbrella. If you want to know more about the weather and the best time to visit Limerick, Ireland, read this post .

Famous people from Limerick – There are several famous people that come from County Limerick including Richard Harris (actor, famous for the Harry Potter films and Camelot), Frank McCourt (actor and writer), Ruth Nagga (actor), Dolores O’Riordan (singer), Terry Wogan (BBC fame), Eamon de Valera (former President of Ireland), Michael D Higgins (current President of Ireland), Keith Earls (Six Nations rugby player), and Steve Finnan (footballer).

Final thoughts about the best things to do in Limerick

I hope this guide to the best things to do in County Limerick will help you better plan your time in this corner of the Emerald Isle. From castles to nature, museums, mountains, and more, there are plenty of things to do in Limerick, Ireland.

Read more about visiting Ireland, County Limerick and its neighbours:

• Best Things to Do in County Cork
• Best Things to Do in County Tipperary
• Best Places in Ireland to Visit
• Best Time to Visit Ireland
• Navigating Ireland With or Without a Car
• Best Reasons You Should Visit Ireland
• Getting Around Ireland Without a Car
• The Ultimate Ireland Packing List

by Cath Jordan

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

15 FUN Things to Do in Limerick, Ireland

Limerick is a charming Irish city in Munster Province, in the southwest of the country, that’s perhaps more famous for the name it gave to the infamous five-line poems that became known as Limericks than it is for any of its many attractions.

There’s much more to Limerick though than its poetry, although it is by far one of the most cultural cities in Ireland. Found on the River Shannon, where the large waterway empties into the Atlantic, Limerick has long held importance as a strategic port, and for centuries has flourished, giving rise to a long history and a huge array of historic sights.

You can visit a centuries-old castle on the banks of the river, explore the grand Victorian designs of the Newtown Pery district, or shop with the locals at the bustling Milk Market. It’s a great place to visit, and to inspire your trip, here are our favorite things to do in Limerick!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Ireland (Travel Guide)

15 Best Things to Do in Limerick, Ireland

Table of Contents

1. King John’s Castle

One of the best things to do in Limerick is to visit St John’s Castle, an imposing 13th-century fortification which was built by the Normans during their conquests of Ireland. The castle was built by the ruling monarch, King John, who wanted to extend his influence over the region and to protect the vital port city he’d captured from the Irish.

The castle is one of the most impressive examples of Norman architecture in the British Isles, with towering ramparts and thick walls that were designed to resist any attack. The location of King John’s Castle, right on the banks of the River Shannon, makes it even more dramatic.

At the castle today, you can explore the newly refurbished exhibitions, while the visitor’s center is full of historical facts and figures that will give you a newfound appreciation for the work that went into its construction. Purchase your  King John’s Castle Admission Ticket today with Viator!

2. St Mary’s Cathedral

St John’s Cathedral might have the distinction of being the tallest building in Limerick, but the equally fascinating St Mary’s Cathedral has the distinction of being the oldest building in Limerick.

If you’re into local history, then visiting St Mary’s Cathedral is one of the best things to do in Limerick, as the church dates far back to 1168 when it was founded in the city. Since then, it’s been continually in use as a place of Christian worship, although it’s gone through several renovations and extensions at that time.

3. St John’s Cathedral

St John’s Cathedral is another of Limerick’s most iconic works of architecture, as this 19th century, Roman Catholic cathedral is home to the tallest spire in the country. The cathedral’s spire also happens to be the tallest spot in the city, at 94 meters in height.

It’s a dramatic sight to see and certainly one of the best things to do in Ireland.

The cathedral is built in the Gothic-revival spirit that was common at the time, and the tall spire and the gothic elements of its design give it an almost hauntingly imposing look, as it rises high above any other building in the city.

4. Newtown Pery

Newtown Pery is one of the most famous districts in the city because it’s the modern heart of Limerick. Really, this is the city center, although it’s one of the newer parts of Limerick and is far outdated by many other, more historic eras.

The district was designed and built in the early 19th century when Limerick was benefiting from trade and in an economically strong position. Because of that, many of the streets were lined with classic Georgian townhouses that were popular at the time, and that today give it a very Victorian feel.

Today, it’s the Central Business District, where you’ll find shops, government offices, and businesses.

5. Thomond Park Rugby Games

Limerick is big on Rugby, and the city is home to several teams that play their games at Thomond Park, a stadium dedicated to the sport. The city’s most famous team is Munster Rugby, and if you can get tickets to a game at the stadium then you’ll be lucky enough to be part of Limerick’s great sporting traditions!

6. Limerick City Museum

Begin your journey to the city by visiting the Limerick City Museum. Here you can learn more about the intriguing history of the city, which is thought to have been founded sometime in the 8th century.

There were settlements here long before however, and the museum has many great archaeological relics from prehistoric times, including finds from the Stone Age through to the Iron Age which has been unearthed in the region.

The museum also has exhibits that touch on a broad range of historical eras, and you can see how the Vikings settled here, followed by the Normans. You can also learn how Limerick played a pivotal if losing, role in the Williamite Wars that would force a mass exodus of Catholics from Ireland in the 17th century.

Limerick has a long and complex history, and to better understand it, a visit to Limerick City Museum is a must.

7. The Treaty Stone

The Treaty Stone is an incredibly important piece of Irish history and it’s found right in the center of Limerick. The city was the scene of a peace treaty that ended the brutal Williamite War in 1691, that was fought between supporters of William of Orange and the Jacobites, many of whom then fled to Europe.

It’s not a sight that will take up much time, but it is an incredibly historic part of local heritage.

8. The Hunt Museum

Another of the most popular things to do in Limerick is to visit the Hunt Museum. This intriguing museum is home to a vast private collection that was amassed by John and Gertrude Hunt, local antique dealers. The museum contains a huge array of works of art and pieces of history, from paintings by Picasso to Christian relics.

9. Frank McCourt Museum

Frank McCourt is a famed Irish writer who won a Pulitzer Prize in 1996 for his novel, Angela’s Ashes, which endeared itself to the literary community with its compelling look at life in Limerick. The museum is a dedication to his life and work, and it’s a great chance to immerse yourself in Limerick’s excellent cultural scene.

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , it gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

10. Terra Nova Fairy Garden

The Terra Nova Fairy Garden is a surreal yet beautiful step into Irish culture, as you can stroll through wonderful gardens that are dedicated to the traditional idea of Irish fairies. These mythical creatures play an important role in local folklore, and amongst modern art installations, you can find traditional fairy stone circles.

11. Limerick City Gallery of Art

One of the best things to do in Limerick to see more of the city’s great culture is to visit the Limerick City Gallery of Art. This is the premier art gallery in the city, located in Pery Square. The LCGA as it’s abbreviated by the locals has been here since 1936 and is home to a vast collection of Irish works of art from the last few centuries.

12. Belltable Arts Centre

Another great cultural hub is the Belltable Arts Centre, which aims to promote the city’s artistic side to both locals and visitors. It offers a unique space for artists, musicians and performers to create, and regularly puts on dramatic productions.

It’s also home to a large cinema, where you can enjoy regular showings of unique films that are unlikely to be screened elsewhere.

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use Discover Car Hire for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Adare is a small, charming village that’s found close to Limerick. It’s a ramshackle affair, and it’s beautiful to explore. You can start at the visitor’s center to learn more about local history, which dates back to the 13th century. The village is also home to ruined, medieval castles, ancient abbeys and much, much more.

14. Milk Market

One of the most popular things to do in Limerick is to go shopping at the bustling Milk Market. The market is found on Mungret Street, and it’s been here for well over 150 years. The market had its roots in the milk trade ( hence the name!), and it’s always been one of the busiest market places in the city.

Today, it’s a big tourist attraction, but it still hasn’t lost its local charm and purpose. Milk is no longer the main business of the market, but it does deal in fresh fruit and fresh veg, alongside some of the city’s best meat and fish, all of which are generally sourced locally.

Weekends see the Milk Market turned into a huge food court too, as vendors and street stalls set up to pack the venue with excellent local and international dishes.

15. Lough Gur

Escape the city on a trip to Lough Gur, one of the best day trips you can make from Limerick. This impressive lake is a chance to see the beautiful Irish countryside, and there are some wonderful walks to make around the water’s edge.

Lough Gur is also an important archaeological site, as you can visit ancient stone circles that have been found here, and that date back thousands of years to the first humans to settle in the region.

More on Ireland:

• Ireland Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Dublin-Things to Do in Dublin
• Where to Stay in Dublin: Guide by the Districts
• 10 Best Day Trips from Dublin Worth Taking
• 9 Castles in Ireland You Cannot Miss
• 33 Ireland Photos Guaranteed to Cause Wanderlust
• Best Road Trip Routes in Ireland
• Best Hikes in the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland
• A Short Guide to Renting A Car in Ireland
• Ireland’s Causeway Coast- Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges & Belfast
• Horseback Riding in Dingle, Ireland
• Finding Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland
• The Real Titanic Experience in Ireland
• Climbing Carrauntoohill- Ireland’s Tallest Peak

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

12 Best Hotels in Limerick (Spa, Boutique + 5 Star Limerick Hotels)

By Author Katherine Smyth

Posted on Last updated: July 1, 2022

If you’re in search of the best hotels in Limerick, you’ve found ’em!

There’s  heaps  of things to do in Limerick but, before you start looking places to visit, you need to pick a good base to explore from.

Luckily, there’s some mighty Limerick hotels on offer, and you’ll find the best of the bunch below!

Table of Contents

What  we  think are the best hotels in Limerick

Photos via Adare Manor on FB

The first section of our guide is packed with our favourite Limerick hotels – these are places where one or more of our team have stayed!

Below, you’ll find everywhere from Woodlands and the Dunraven to some of swankiest 5 star hotels in Limerick.

1. Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel

Photos via Booking.com

More than just a ‘hotel’; with a leisure club, in-house spa, several different dining options, and a range of activities to suit all interests, Fitzgeralds is a rare gem.

It’s here that you’ll discover 4-star accommodation that feels more like home. With 89 spacious and elegantly decorated rooms, each with en-suite and luxuriously comfortable beds, you’ll sleep soundly and wake up to a superb breakfast before starting the day.

Rooms are available as doubles, twins, and interconnecting, family-sized, and business suites. Each room comes with tea/coffee making facilities and complimentary WiFi, and priority booking for Revas spa and its thermal suite.

2. The Dunraven, Adare

Photos via The Dunraven on FB

Nestled in the idle of Adare , this hotel is known as an oasis of charm and Irish hospitality. With stunning gardens surrounding the complex, this hotel offers guests five levels of luxurious comfort.

Rooms include unique doubles in the main building, which dates back to the 18th century, spacious superior Executive rooms as doubles or twins, Junior suites with four-poster beds, Executive suites with additional living space, and the exclusive Dunraven suite.

Check-in, and look no further for all your needs; in-house leisure facilities, exclusive dining in an award-winning restaurant. This is, in our opinion, one of the best hotels in Limerick for good reason.

3. The Savoy Hotel

If you’re looking for 5 star hotels in Limerick City then the Savoy, set just back from the iconic River Shannon, is hard to beat.

With four in-house dining options to choose from, the relaxing and peaceful VB Spa where you can enjoy a range of treatments, and of course, the elegant bedrooms, this hotel lacks for nothing.

Each of the four room styles offers guests spectacular views across the city skyline, which beautifully compliments the chic and contemporary room interiors.

Ranging from Executive, Deluxe, to Triple rooms, or the ultimate Junior Suite, each room type has its own benefits and luxuries.

4. Limerick Strand Hotel

4-Star luxury is waiting for you on the northern bank of the River Shannon; with commanding views over the city skyline, this contemporary hotel is everything you could want for your stay in Limerick.

With a range of rooms, from Superior and Executive Doubles to Triple and Family rooms, and Junior and Presidential suites on offer, you’re sure to enjoy all the creature comforts in as much space as you desire.

The Strand also offers memorable dining in their River Bar and Restaurant, join them for their award-winning Irish breakfast, afternoon tea, supper club, or a relaxed Sunday lunch.

Spa hotels in Limerick

Now that we have what  we  think are the best hotels in Limerick out of the way, it’s time to see what else the county has to offer.

In the next section, it’s all eyes on the various spa hotels in Limerick .

Below, you’ll find everywhere from Adare Manor and No. 1 Pery Square to some great family-friendly Limerick hotels.

1. Adare Manor

Tucked away in the renowned scenic village of Adare, the Adare Manor offers guests a level of luxury in a charming and historic setting that’s not often combined together.

This boutique hotel is a lavish experience, with its luxurious bedrooms, ranging from Classic through to the exclusive Dunraven Staterooms, Manor Lodges, and Rose and Lavender Cottages, all set in 840-acres of pristine parkland.

If that’s not enough, you can always dine at their Michelin-starred restaurant, The Oak Room, or relax into the healing powers of The Spa at Adar Manor.

Both locations will provide experiences that entrance and satisfy, and take your mind and body away from the day-to-day.

2. No.1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa

Situated on the edge of the People’s Park , this hotel and spa provides the ideal location to enjoy a city escape.

From the tranquillity and comfort of their period rooms or the top floor’s ‘Townhouse suite’, you can make the most of exploring Limerick city.

While you’re a resident at this hotel, you can also take advantage of their Heritage Spa, known as Limerick’s No. 1 urban wellness spa; where you can enjoy relaxing and indulgent treatments.

When it comes time, book your table at The Long Room, and treat yourself to the very best of Irish produce and culinary excellence.

3. Absolute Hotel Limerick

Cross over the canal, to King’s Island, and you’ll feel like you’re entering into your own castle at Absolute Hotel.

Only a short walk from King John’s Castle , your own spacious accommodations will give you unparalleled views of the city from its vantage point.

Choose from Classic and Superior rooms, chic suites and family rooms to find the perfect fit for your stay.

Then decide how you’d like to spend your time; taking advantage of Absolute’s fully equipped in-house gym, dining at Harry’s restaurant with its reputation for showcasing high-quality regional produce, or escaping in the Vanilla Brown spa.

4. Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa

Set amongst Limerick’s rolling green fields, and surrounded by peace and tranquillity, it’s only a short 15-minutes drive northeast out of the city centre, and you’ll escape into a world of your own; luxurious hotel, wellness spa with fitness centre, and world-class dining.

Each of the 154 chic and contemporary hotel rooms is tastefully appointed with everything you’ll need; comfortable beds, luxurious fabrics and modern furnishings, and unmatched views.

Taste the difference and excellence of Irish cuisine at any one of the range of Radisson’s in-house eateries; Coffee Dock, to start or complement your day, the Lobby Bar, to unwind or refresh with drinks, Quench Bar, to get the party started, or finished in style, and The Brasserie, for all your culinary needs.

Excellent hotels in Limerick City

Photos via Shutterstock

There’s some gorgeous hotels in Limerick City for those of you looking to make it your base.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from the George and the Bedford Townhouse to some often overlooked Limerick hotels.

1. Limerick Strand Hotel

So good we have to mention it twice, the Limerick Strand Hotel is in a league of its own.

Between the 184 luxuriously appointed rooms, each with a 40-inch TV, high-speed WiFi, and air-conditioning, guests also have access to the Strand’s private 20-metre swimming pool and the Energize Health Club.

When it comes to dining, Limerick Strand Hotel’s award-winning reputation speaks for itself.

Voted the Best Hotel Irish Breakfast in 2020, and with food served 7-days a week from 9:00am-10:00pm, including a relaxed Sunday Lunch, Al Fresco dining in summer, and year-round Afternoon Tea which all showcase the best produce from local artisan producers.

2. George Limerick

If you’re in search of boutique hotels in Limerick City, give the George a bash! In the heart of Limerick’s bustling city centre, this hotel is the sister hotel to the Savoy Hotel and offers guests the same level of comfort, relaxation, and style.

King, Double, Triple, Twin, and Family rooms provide a range of space to suit your needs. King rooms are especially popular with business travellers for their integrated work area.

Switch off from the day-to-day grind, and unwind at the VB Spa. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy massages, facial treatments, or spa treatments without leaving the hotel.

When it comes time to nourish yourself, head to the Vincenzo Grill or Vincenzo Bar for modern dining, great cocktails, and try the amazing local produce prepared by expert hands.

3. The Bedford Townhouse

Your home away from home awaits you in downtown Limerick, the Bedford Townhouse. With 12 rooms and a boutique hotel vibe, this townhouse gives guests an intimate stay in the heart of historic Limerick.

For couples, there’s a choice of Chic or Elegant rooms with king-sized beds as standard, or twin beds if preferred. Need a bit more room? No worries, choose the spacious Suite and relax in style and comfort.

Feeling peckish? The Bedford has you covered with their own cafe. A contemporary-styled cafe that serves cafe classics, you can order anything from a cup of specialty coffee, an all-day breakfast made from local produce, or something more substantial; all served with a legendary Limerick welcome.

4. Clayton Hotel Limerick

Opposite the Westfields Wetlands, and on the River Shannon, the Clayton Hotel offers guests superb views across the river onto natural wetlands with a range of native and visiting wildlife.

Rooms are spacious, and range from Superior and Executive, to Deluxe King rooms, Apartments and the Penthouse. Some rooms are interconnecting, for parties travelling together, and of course there are Family rooms too, so you can all escape together.

Enjoy a range of freshly prepared and healthy meals at the Grill Bar & Restaurant and Waterfront Restaurant, an amazing daily breakfast at Vitality Breakfast, or Red Bean Roastery for a hot cup of handcrafted coffee.

What great Limerick hotels have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant hotels in Limerick City and beyond from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about places to stay in Limerick

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What Limerick hotels are good for kids?’ to ‘Where has a swimming pool?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best hotels in Limerick?

In our opinion, it’s hard to beat Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel, The Savoy, Limerick Strand and The Dunraven.

What are some good hotels in Limerick City?

If you fancy a splurge, The Savoy. We’re also particularly fond of George Limerick and Limerick Strand.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

34 Fun Things To Do In Limerick, Ireland (For 2024)

Categories Limerick , Things To Do

There are lots of things to do in Limerick, Ireland. It is known for its charming old towns from medieval-era, Georgian townhouses, hidden gardens, museums, pubs , and castles . Limerick is a county in the Republic of Ireland and its biggest city is also called Limerick.

READ MORE: Best Hotels In Limerick City.

Limerick City is the center of the culture and history of this county and it’s only around 2 hours away from Dublin .

This guide consists of the best things to do in Limerick City and the rest of Limerick county.

Things you'll find in this article

1. The Hunt Museum

2. limerick city gallery of art, 3. limerick city museum, 4. frank mccourt museum, 5. foynes flying boat and maritime museum, 6. old irish ways, 7. king john’s castle, 8. adare desmond castle, 9. bishop’s palace, 10. st mary’s cathedral, 11. st john’s cathedral, 12. lough gur visitor centre, 13. the treaty stone, 14. the toll house, 15. terra nova fairy garden, 16. coolwater garden, 17. curraghchase forest park, 18. people’s park, 20. newtown pery, 21. thomond park stadium, 22. ballyhoura mountain bike trails, 23. the milk market, 24. visit the treaty city brewery, 25. go to st munchin’s church, 26. see the sarsfield bridge, 27. enjoy indoor activities at the national kart center, 28. explore anne fitzgerald gallery, 29. indulge in dreamland fun centre, 30. have fun at the mungret park and playground, 31. observe the tait clock, 32. head to arthur’s quay park, 33. venture into fitzpatrick’s casino limerick, 34. savor food and drink at mother macs public house, travelodge limerick castletroy, the savoy hotel, visit limerick during the summer, what to wear and pack in limerick, there are lots of parking spaces, limerick is safe.

Check out the museums in Limerick

The Hunt Museum houses one of Ireland’s greatest private collections of art and antiquities, dating from the Neolithic to the 20th Century. These collections are owned by the Hunts Family who are well-known art collectors in Ireland. This collection includes works by world-renowned artists such as Renoir, Picasso, Gauguin, Giacometti, and Yeats.

The museum holds about 2500 different artifacts from Ireland and abroad and some of them even came from stone-age Ireland.

Operation Hours

Monday to Saturday 10 am-5 pm Sundays 2 pm-5 pm

Admission Fee

Hunt Museum Adult:  €7.50 Adult Group: €5.50 Senior: €5.50 Student (16+)  €5.50 Child (Under 16) Free

Lavery & Osborne Exhibition Adult:  €10.00 Adult Group: €5.50 Senior: €5.50 Student (16+)  €3.50 Child (Under 16) Free

Combi Ticket

Adult:  €12.50 Adult Group: €10.00 Senior:€10.00 Student (16+)  €7.00 Child (Under 16) Free

Contact Information

Address: The Custom House | Rutland St., Limerick, Ireland

Phone: +353 (0) 61 312 833

Email:[email protected]

Limerick City Gallery of Art is one of the leading contemporary art galleries in Ireland . The gallery also holds regular temporary exhibitions of contemporary works and home to an important collection of Irish 18th – 21st century art in all media.

It is also one of the primary venues for  EVA International , the Irish biennial of contemporary art.

Monday-Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 10:00-17:30 Thursday 10:00-20:00 Sunday 12:00-17:30

Address: Carnegie Building, Pery Square, Limerick, Ireland

Phone:+353 61 310633

Email:  [email protected]

The Limerick Museum is another city museum in Limerick and was founded in 1907 on Pery Square. It has moved to several locations since then and is currently located in the old Franciscans Friary on Henry Street.

The museum has a collection of 60,000 objects gathered through donations, purchase and long-term loan. Among the more unusual items include Ireton’s Cat, a mummified cat found on Nicholas Street in the 1890’s; a fragment of the largest meteorite that ever falls in Ireland in 1813 and two World War II gas-masks, that fortunately never had to be used.

Weekdays 10am-5pm (closed for lunch 1pm-2pm)

Address: The Old Franciscan Friary, Henry Street, Limerick

Phone: +353 61 557740

Email: [email protected]

The Frank McCourt Museum, in Limerick City, is a museum dedicated to the Pulitzer winner writer, Frank McCourt. It houses the memorabilia from the life and time of Frank McCourt, as depicted in Angela’s Ashes. The first of his autobiographic memoirs and one that was rewarded with the Pulitzer Prize.

Monday -Friday- 11 am to 4.30 pm Saturday – 2 pm –4 pm

€4 (Student/ senior citizen: €3)

Address: Hartstonge Street, Limerick

Phone:+353 (61)319710

Email: [email protected] 

Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum is the world’s only flying boat museum and the home of Irish coffee. It holds several aviation artifacts from the ’30s and ’40s.

daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm

Adults: €12.00 Seniors/Students: €10.00 Children under 14: €6.00 Children under 5: FREE Family Ticket: €30.00 (2 adults and up to 4 children)

Address: Ballynacragga North, County Limerick , Ireland

Phone: 00353 69 65416

Email:[email protected] 

Old Irish Ways is a folk heritage museum located near the east Limerick town of Bruff. The museum was started back in 2008, with an idea of preserving the past for future generations.

The exhibits in Old Irish Ways recapture what life was like over 100 years ago, giving people a sense of what past generations grew up with.

11 am to 5 pm

€5 for adults with free entry for children

Address: Caherguillamore, Bruff, Ireland

Phone:+353 86 154 1078

Be amazed by the Castles in Limerick

King John’s Castle is a 13th-century castle located on King’s Island in Limerick and next to the River Shannon. The castle overlooks the river and the panoramic view of Limerick City.

The stunning new exhibition brings to life over 800 years of King John’s Castle and Limerick City’s dramatic history all through Touch-screen technology which will connect visitors to tales of siege and warfare.

And if you are staying in neighboring cities, it is one of the best day trips that you can do from Dublin , Cork or Galway .

09.30am -5pm

€10 for adult, €5 for children and €22 for family (2 adults + 2 children)

Address: Nicholas St, Limerick , Ireland

Phone:353 (0) 61 -711222

Email: [email protected]

The Desmond Castle is located on the edge of the village of Adare, just off the N21 on the main Limerick to Kerry road. The castle was erected with an ancient ring-fort around the early part of the 13th century. It became a strategic fortress during the following turbulent years.

It was the property of the Earls of Kildare for nearly 300 years until the rebellion in 1536, when it was forfeited and granted to the Earls of Desmond who gave the castle its present name.

daily from 9 am to 6 pm

€5 per adult and €3.5 per child

Address: Limerick Road, Adare, Co. Limerick

Phone:+353 (0) 61 396666

Email:[email protected]

The Bishops’ Palace is adjacent to King John’s Castle, it is the restored home of former Protestant Bishops of Limerick. The Palace has a classical facade and is related to the English Palladian style.

The house is currently occupied by Limerick Civic Trust and visitors are welcome.

Monday to Friday 9 am -4 pm

Donations are accepted

Address: Church Street Kings Island, Limerick

Visiting the churches is one of the best things to do in Limerick

St. Mary’s Cathedral is an 850-year old cathedral and the oldest building in Limerick. This cathedral was originally a royal palace for the Kings of Thomond but it was given to the church in 1168. This had been the center the government for early Medieval Vikings.

9 am to 4 pm

Address: Bridge Street, Limerick, Ireland V94 E068

Phone: (061) 310 293

Email: [email protected]

St John’s Cathedral is another old historical church in Limerick. It was built in 1861 and it has the tallest spire in Ireland. The bell tower is so tall that you can see it from just about every building in Limerick defining its skyline.

daily between 10 am to 5 pm

Address: St John’s Cathedral, Cathedral Place, Limerick

Learn from the historical sites in Limerick

Lough Gur Heritage Centre is a community-run tourist and one of the must-see attractions in Limerick. The center tells the story of 6,000 years of habitation in the Lough Gur area. From Neolithic house sites to medieval castles, Lough Gur has monuments from every era.

The exhibition provides an overview of one of Ireland’s most important archaeological sites. It is the only area in the country where you can see visible evidence of every age since Neolithic times and one of the best things to see in Limerick.

Monday to Friday from- 10 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday-12.00pm to 6.00pm

Adult: €5 Child: €3 OAP/Student: €3.30 Family Ticket (2 Adults + 2 Children): €14

Address: Near Bruff, Lough Gur, Limerick

Phone: +353 (0)87 285 2022

Email:  [email protected]

The Treaty Stone is a rough-hewn limestone block raised on a pedestal standing across the river Shannon from King John’s Castle in Limerick City. It commemorates the Treaty of Limerick signed in 1691 which ended the conflict between the Protestant and the Catholic Church.

Address: Clancys Strand, Limerick

The Toll House is crenelated Gothic-style folly next to Thomond Bridge, dating back to the 1840s.  Many of Limerick’s numerous bridges were paid for by tolls prior to 1900 and some of these houses still exist to the present day.

Address: 1, Castle Street Castle St, Limerick, V94 WR86

Relax at the gardens in Limerick

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Terra Nova Fairy Gardens🌷🌱🍄 (@terra_nova_gardens) on May 22, 2017 at 5:58am PDT

Terra Nova is one of Ireland’s best known small, privately owned gardens and is a firm favorite with garden visitors of all ages. It is a winner of the “best garden in Ireland” award due to its beautiful gardens setting and landscape and the fairies and gnomes scattered around the garden.

This is one of the best things to do with kids in Limerick as they will enjoy the fairies hunt.

daily from 11 am to 6 pm

€6 per adult and €4 per child (under 2 is free of charge)

Address: Raymondstown, Co. Limerick, Ireland

Phone: 063 90744

Email:  [email protected]

Coolwater is a wonderfully, artistically designed hidden garden in Limerick. Despite the water ponds and the aquatic plants being the main focal points, the garden houses several collections of plants, succulents, and trees from all over the world.

Wednesday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm

Adult: €6.00 Child: Under 16 free with an adult. Senior / Student: €6.00 Family: €12.00

Address: Fedamore, Cloughadoolarty, Co. Limerick

Phone: 087 2584716

Email: [email protected]

Have a picnic in the parks

Curraghchase is a 774-acre forest park located in County Limerick. It is 20 km from the city of Limerick, between the towns of Adare and Askeaton. Curraghchase Forest Park is the woodland estate and lakes around the shell of the 18th century Curraghchase House. It is now open as a state forest and park.

There are 313 hectares of mixed woodland and 8km of multi-purpose way-marked trails. There are a number of looped waymarked trails in the park to suit all visitors.

daily from 9 am to 9 pm

€5 charge per car

Address: Kilcornan, Toreen, Co. Limerick

Phone:   +353 61 337 322

The People’s Park, in Pery Square, is the principal park in Limerick City. It was formally opened in 1877, in memory of Richard Russell, a prominent local businessman.

The Park boasts a number of interesting items including a memorial upon a giant pillar to  Thomas Spring Rice , a 19th-century Bandstand, an ornate drinking fountain, playground, and gazebos.

8 am to dusk, and 8 am to 9 pm from the 3rd week in April to the 4th week in August

Address: People’s Park, Pery’s Square, Limerick City

Explore the charming villages in Limerick

Adare is a small village in County Limerick. Renowned as one of Ireland’s prettiest towns , Adare is designated as a heritage town by the Irish government.

An architectural wealth of scenic beauty, Adare’s main street is punctuated with beautiful stone buildings, medieval monasteries, ruins, and a picturesque village park. It is also one of the best day trips from Limerick City.

Address: Adare, Limerick

Newtown Pery is an area of central  Limerick  and forms the main  city center  (or  CBD ) of the city. The district is known for its  Georgian architectural heritage and is the core area of Limerick’s Georgian Quarter.

This Georgian Quarter gives Limerick it’s a unique historic character, which sets it apart from other towns and cities in Ireland.

Address: Newtown Pery, Limerick

Other things to do in Limerick

Thomond Park is a stadium in Limerick.  It is the home ground of Munster Rugby, one of the most successful and best supported rugby clubs in the world.  Follow in the footsteps of your Munster heroes by taking a look behind the scenes at the historic Thomond Park Stadium.

The full stadium tour consists of a museum visit and film, plus visits to the pitching side, the Munster dugout, the home and away dressing rooms and the post-match interview area.

Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm

Adult €10 children €8 Family package(2+2) €30

Address: Thomond Park Cratloe Road  |  Cratloe Road , Limerick V94

Phone: 061-421100

Email:   [email protected]

Ballyhoura is located south-east of Limerick . This mountain is famous for bike trails which is the largest in Ireland. It is 98-km of trails which includes forest road climbs, tight twisty singletrack with loads of ups and downs, board walk, tight turns, and technical rocky bits.

Admission Fee:

Address: Ardpatrick, Co. Limerick

The Milk Market is one of the oldest food markets in Ireland. Despite its name, it is selling a wide variety of foods which are produced locally.

You can sample the culinary delights of Ireland with Irish cheeses, fish, seaweeds, sausages, jams, chutneys, bread, and fresh-pressed apple juice. If you want something different to do, this is one of the fun things to do in Limerick

Friday 10am-3pm, Saturday 8am-3pm Sunday 11am -3pm

Address: The Milk Market, Limerick, Ireland

Phone: 061 214782

Email:  [email protected]

Visiting Limerick and don’t know where to stay yet? Here’s our list of the best hotels in Limerick to help you get started. 

The Treaty City Brewery is located in the ancient medieval area of Limerick City. It operates as an artisanal craft microbrewery that produces some of the country’s greatest beers. Take a guided tour to find out more and take home your new favorite beer.

Enjoy a terrific craft beer experience at the Treaty City Brewery, which is housed in two refurbished 18th-century buildings with ties to Limerick’s history brewing sector.

See antiquities from all throughout Limerick, including a Pery Hotel bench and a fireplace from King John’s Castle.

St Munchin’s Church is situated on King’s Island in the center of ancient Limerick. This parish church, which is still in operation today, has a main tower capped by four pinnacles.

You will be able to visit it, but you must be discreet because the church is frequently frequented during religious rituals. You may even be permitted to snap a few shots if you request permission on the spot.

Galleried transepts as well as a five-sided apsidal chancel grace the internal nave. Granite columns and colonnettes can be seen in arcades. A barrel vault serves as the ceiling. There are several memorial plaques and statues.

The second River Shannon bridge is today known as Sarsfield Bridge, in honor of Patrick Sarsfield, Earl of Lucan, who is well-known in Limerick for his participation in the 1691 siege as well as the Treaty of Limerick.

The bridge itself is built up of five enormous and magnificent circular arches having an open balustrade that stretches from a man-made island designated Wellesley Pier but currently known as Shannon Island.

To allow smaller boats to pass, a lock mechanism has replaced the swivel portion. Aside from that, the bridge has stayed substantially intact since its construction and has its initial lamp standards.

The National Kart Centre houses the World’s Largest Indoor Karting Arena, Europe’s First Indoor Drift Karting Establishment, and an enclosed Airsoft Facility.

Since its inception, the National Kart Centre has expanded from Ireland’s biggest indoor track to the World’s Largest Indoor Track. Many fast straights, multiple difficult turns with tunnels, and a bridge.

Pro Tip: Although it may not appear so, karting is a physically taxing sport. If you become unusually weary or ill, pull into the pits and notify us. You won’t get any awards for finishing the race at the expense of your health.

The same is true for ability; if you don’t feel entirely in control, slow down and ride at a safe pace; you’re here to have fun.

The diverse and varied works of globally known artist Anne FitzGerald are on show in a stunning historic building. Anne’s art encompasses stunning landscapes, coastlines, floral pieces, portraits, and still-lifes, along with Celtic patterns.

She is well known for her Dear God Kids the children’s characters. Anne Fitzgerald travels extensively as an internationally recognized artist. She lives in Limerick, Ireland, and creates from her gallery at Mungret College.

According to Anne’s philosophy, art is the gift of always producing from what you continue seeing and experiencing. Each day is an adventure with a hidden piece of art to be unearthed.

Dreamland Limerick is a fantastic location, the type only seen in fairy tales or children’s imaginative play, where kids can be kids again and adults can be kids again.

Kids and parents can go down the magical slide together, purchase in the supermarket, fly on the flight of dreams, be a firefighter, get changed in the girl’s world, fix stuffed animals in the toy hospital, and enjoy a variety of other activities.

Mungret playground has been deliberately constructed to accommodate as many able-bodied youngsters as possible.

The play equipment is appropriate for both able-bodied as well as non-able-bodied children, and additionally, there is a sensory section for autistic children.

The playground and park are not only for kids. There are two kilometers of walking and cycling pathways, as well as breathtaking views from the summit of the property. Adult fitness equipment and seats are available along the park’s perimeter.

The region is rich in ancient relics, and Mungret College may be seen in the backdrop, adding to the total amenity value.

The Tait Clock was erected in 1867 in commemoration of Limerick mayor Sir Peter Tait, who is most known for revitalizing the local economy by establishing the Limerick Clothing Factory. The clock is a magnificent Gothic building.

He spotted an opportunity for automated tailoring through his efforts. Fortunately, Singer had previously invented the sewing machine in the United States, and Tait founded the area’s first ready-made garment factory.

Tait’s Factory made military uniforms during both the Crimean War and the American Civil War. The clock is a historic monument that commemorates a time when manufacturing and industries were at the core of the city’s industrial environment, giving solid jobs for residents.

Sit back and relax, or take a stroll in the park. View the magnificent Shannon River as it flows past the Treaty City.

Arthur’s Quay Park is located in the center of Limerick City and offers stunning views of the Shannon River and the Clare Hills.

The riverfront walk in the city leads past Arthur’s Quay Park, and King John’s Castle may be viewed farther up the river. The plants visible here are lime trees, which provide excellent shade on hot days.

Limerick’s casino is rather tiny. Fitzpatrick’s Casino Limerick is the recognized name of the casino. It has a limited quantity of slot machines. The overall number of active game tables is rather low.

The casino Limerick includes traditional table games like Blackjack and Roulette, as well as Poker Table Games. Poker enthusiasts will discover poker cash tables with Texas Hold’em and Omaha poker, as well as Poker Tournaments. Fitzpatrick’s Casino Limerick is a long-established club where you will have a terrific time.

Mother Macs Public House launched in 2015 and has since been known for its extensive craft beer selection.

Rotating craft taps, guest taps, promotions, and a huge range of capped beers are available. It has an amazing whiskey variety, and every visitor should inquire about the Whiskey of the Month deals.

The distinctive building with huge open windows provides an unobstructed view of the passing world, and people who happen upon it are not disappointed to spend an evening meeting up with loved ones.

Mother Macs’ distinctive lettering is the creation of local and globally known sign writer Tom Collins and the present owners believe in displaying the great talents and ability of local artists.

Where to Stay in Limerick City

Location: Dublin Road, Castletroy, V94 Y83C Limerick, Ireland

The Travelodge Limerick Castletroy is a modern hotel in Castletroy, just a twenty-five-minute drive from Shannon Airport and 3 kilometers from Limerick city center.

The rooms are big, with comfy mattresses and modern en suite bathrooms. All rooms include a TV, and the hotel offers free WiFi with unlimited bandwidth for all devices. Some rooms provide spectacular views over Limerick.

Café Noir serves traditional French cuisine. There is a comprehensive supper menu as well as a cutting-edge open-plan kitchen.

Price per Night:

•  $109 – $129
•  Non-smoking rooms
•  Facilities for disabled guests
•  Free parking
•  Free WiFi
•  Family rooms

Double Room For 2 (1 night): $109 Price (Includes taxes and fees)

Notable Inclusions:

•  1 double bed
•  15 m²
•  Private bathroom
•  Flat-screen TV

Location: Henry Street, Limerick, Ireland

The Savoy operates as a boutique hotel in Limerick’s downtown, between the ancient King John’s Castle and the renowned Thomond Park.

It has three restaurants and beautiful accommodations with free Wi-Fi overlooking the River Shannon. Limerick’s shops, galleries, and restaurants are all within walking distance.

The Savoy Limerick’s air-conditioned lodgings all offer satellite TVs, towels, and sandals. They additionally have laptop vaults as well as entry to the 7th-floor Executive Lounge for executive rooms and suites.

A sophisticated gym, spa bathing, and plunge pool are available at the Savoy Aqua and Fitness Club.

•  $213 – $525
•  Indoor swimming pool
•  Fitness centre
•  Spa and wellness center
•  2 restaurants
•  Room service
•  Very good breakfast

Junior Suite For 2 (1 night): $525 Price (Includes taxes and fees)

•  1 extra-large double bed
•  Private suite
•  44 m²
•  Air conditioning
•  Ensuite bathroom

Limerick City Travel Tips

Although Limerick may be visited at any time of year, certain times of year are more pleasant than others, with the summer season giving longer days and warmer temperatures.

Summer is perhaps the greatest time to visit Ireland. Summer is, unsurprisingly, the most preferred season throughout the year for touring Limerick and its surrounding attractions.

If you’re planning a vacation to Limerick, you might be wondering what to anticipate from the weather and what to take.

Summers are hot, so you just need the necessities. Bring clothing that you can wear outside if you want to travel as lightly as possible. Another must-have item is comfortable shoes, especially if you intend to walk around the city.

There are lots of parking places in Limerick’s downtown, however they are not free. Some of the huge parking areas are secure and centrally placed throughout Limerick.

You may park on the street, which is less expensive in Limerick but less safe than garages. Free parking in Limerick is mostly available in the suburbs, which is difficult for regular travelers.

Limerick is considered to be one of Ireland’s safest cities to visit. Some locations may appear harder than others, so always exercise common sense and trust your senses.

Limerick formerly had a poor image, but that is no longer the case. Statistics show that Limerick is a highly safe city these days. If you’re driving a car, as always, utilize safe parking and don’t leave valuables inside.  

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

8 Things To Do In Portlaoise, County Laoise - Ireland Travel Guides

Friday 10th of December 2021

[…] This town is gaining popularity as one of the best day trips from Dublin and it’s also a perfect stopover for anyone driving between Dublin and Limerick. […]

28 Famous Irish People That You Should Know - Ireland Travel Guides

Friday 26th of November 2021

[…] January 7, 1982 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to an Irish mother and a Nigerian father, Negga moved to Limerick, Ireland, with her family when she was four. Negga made her screen debut in the 2004 Irish film Capital […]

10 Best Hotels In Limerick City, Ireland - Ireland Travel Guides

Monday 26th of July 2021

[…] of the best places to visit in the city are the old district Of English Town, the picturesque Adare village and the medieval Bunratty […]

10 Best Pubs In Limerick, Ireland - Ireland Travel Guides

[…] The old-world charm of O’Connell’s Traditional Guinness Bar, along with its award-winning pub grub are what draws most people to this charming spot in Limerick City. […]

15 Things To Do in Shannon, Ireland - Ireland Travel Guides

Tuesday 22nd of June 2021

[…] in Ireland tend to overlook Shannon in favor of other major cities in Ireland such as Galway, Limerick, Dublin, and […]

Travel Guide To Limerick Ireland

Limerick is the third-largest city in Ireland founded by the Vikings in 812. One of the longest Bridge in Europe is located in Limerick, University of Limerick. This colourful town is an area of tragedy and regeneration, of lifestyle and “craic” (fun), of little secrets and techniques & well-known locals. And then there’s its music, artwork and literature, from The Cranberries to Pulitzer prizewinning writer Frank McCourt. Here your Travel Guide To Limerick Ireland

Travel guide to Limerick, Ireland

Best time to go to limerick, how to reach limerick, how to get around, places to visit in limerick street art, day trips in limerick.

Any time between May and September are fantastic for the journey to Limerick. The summertime season months of June thru August have a tendency to be the warmest, so make sure to convey hotter garments in case you choose a fall trip. March, April, and September have a tendency to be the driest months, with the least humid month tending to be April and the maximum humid month usually touchdown in November.

From Dublin airport, we can take a flight to Shannon airport Co. Clare. There are three exclusive buses run among Shannon Airport and the towns of Limerick and Ennis. You can also take a private taxi from Shannon airport to Limerick which will cost an average of €50. It is the quickest way to reach Limerick by taxi in Just 20-30 mins. Trains are also available however it is not direct trains to reach Limerick from Dublin.

If you want to move around the city without worries, you can borrow city bikes. As part of the redevelopment of the city, new cycle paths have been built to make cycling safer and more convenient for cyclists. Limerick is also relatively easy to get to and navigate by car so if you’re not a motorcyclist, you’re still in luck! Be sure to read driving laws and prepare for a shift change unless otherwise stated.

Also read: Ireland Travel Guide – All You Need To Know Before Visiting This Country

King John’s Castle

King John’s Castle is a 13th-century fortress positioned on King’s Island in Limerick, Ireland, subsequent to the River Shannon. Although the web website online dates again to 922 while the Vikings lived at the Island, the fortress itself become constructed at the orders of King John in 1200. One of the quality preserved Norman castles in Europe, the walls, towers and fortifications continue to be nowadays and are traveller attractions.

Open Daily: 10.00am – 17:00pm – (Last Admission 4pm)

Location: Nicholas St, Limerick, Ireland.

The Hunt Museum

Hunt Museum is a museum inside the town of Limerick, Ireland. The Hunt Museum holds a non-public series donated through the Hunt family, it becomes at start located inside the University of Limerick, earlier than being moved to its gift place inside the Georgian Custom House in 1997. Custom House is located on Rutland Street at the banks of the River Shannon at its confluence with the Abbey River. Among the museum’s series work through splendid artists and architects inclusive of Pablo Picasso, Jack B. Yeats, and Sybil Connolly in addition to different historic gadgets inclusive of the O’Dea Mitre and Crozier.

Open hours: Tuesday to Saturday ( 10 am-5 pm), Sunday ( 11 am-5 pm), Monday ( closed).

Location: Rutland St, Limerick, Ireland.

Limerick City Gallery of Art

Boasting one in all Ireland’s finest non-public collections of artwork and antiques, The Hunt Museum is a wealthy cultural experience. The collections variety from the Neolithic duration to the 20 th century and encompass works via way of means of Renoir, Picasso, and Yeats. The Exhibition gallery indicates a spectrum of transient and everlasting exhibitions.

Open hours: Monday to Friday ( 10 am – 5 pm), Thursday( 10 am – 7.30 pm ), Sunday 12- 5 pm.

Location: Carnegie Building, Pery Square, Limerick, V94 E67F, Ireland.

The Milk Market

The Dairy Market is a food market on Mungret Street, Limerick, Ireland. Despite the name, the market has diversified from its original purpose over the years and now sells a wide variety of foods, many of which are locally produced. one of the oldest in Ireland. The most important market day is the food market on Saturday, but there are also markets on Fridays and Sundays

Opening hours: Friday & Sunday ( 11 am to 15 pm) & Saturday ( 8 am to 15 pm).

Location: Cornmarket Row, Limerick, V94 R602, Ireland.

Renowned street performers from around the world come to Limerick to make their mark, and what they leave behind is vibrant, atmospheric, and connecting murals and messages.

Also read: Top castles in Ireland that are not to be missed on your next trip

Adare is a designated cultural city that means idyllic huts, boutiques and live entertainment. Stroll through the colorful village and learn about the region’s rich history while enjoying one of Ireland’s most beautiful cities.

Clare Glens

A forest park on the Limerick / Tipperary border. This is a beautiful place to spend a day away from the city. Venture through the red sandstone gorge of the River Clare and follow one of several nature trails through the picturesque park.

Rock of Cashel

Rock of Cashel is one of the most visited cultural heritage sites in Ireland and an icon of Tipperary. Also known as St. Patrick’s Rock and Cashel of the Kings, the site is believed to be where Aenghus, the King of Munster, was converted by St. Patrick in the 5th century AD.

Visit the rebel city for a day! Tour the Jameson Distillery, shop at the English Market and immerse yourself in the city’s epic gastronomy. The city is full of lively pubs and hip clubs and shines as soon as the sun goes down.

Dingle Peninsula

Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula has earned a reputation for being one of the most scenic stretches of coast in the world. Take a journey through the rugged natural beauty of Ireland along the sparkling seas and through rugged mountains.

Hope now you know some basic information and travel guide to Limerick Ireland. A good place to spend time along with music artwork and literature along with family or friends. Check out some amazing Ireland tour packages , even you can customize your itinerary at Pickyourtrail .

ShyamNath K

22 posts published., related itineraries.

Stunning 6 Nights Ireland Trip Package For Couple

• Flights excluded
• 3 star accommodations
• 3 activities
• Shared transfer

₹ 51,004

Starting price/person

Skintillating 7 Nights Tour Package To Ireland

₹ 51,417.

Blissful 13 Nights Ireland Travel Packages

₹ 1,26,511.

Beautiful 11 Nights Tour Package To Ireland

• 3.5 star accommodations

₹ 75,127

Breathtaking 10 nights ireland holiday packages, ₹ 64,814.

Splendid 14 Nights London Scotland Ireland Tour Package For Couple

• 2 star accommodations
• 5 activities

₹ 97,220

Astonishing 9 nights ireland tour package for couples, ₹ 56,585.

Mesmerizing 12 Nights Ireland Holiday Packages

• 2 activities

₹ 1,21,724

Ravishing 6 nights ireland trip package with fights.

• Flights included

₹ 1,36,607

Epic 8 nights ireland tour packages from india, ₹ 66,096, related posts, ireland travel from india: a guide for 2024, best places to witness street art in london, travel to these countries with no quarantine, europe in may – a complete guide, amazing scenic drives in ireland, best places to visit cork for free-the best of ireland, plan your visit to county clare, ireland( a travel guide), travel guide to west cork: reasons to visit the west cork, travel guide to galway, ireland, top 8 beach destinations – summer calling, ireland castles: all about ireland castles, best places to find street art in paris – for the art lover in you.

Book a vacation completely online

Our community is growing fast

Sign up for exclusive PYT Club membership and access jaw-dropping deals before the rest of the world!

• Signup with Email
• Facebook community
• Telegram Community

Access exciting travel deals at best prices

• New Zealand
• South East Asia
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Switzerland
• Travelogues
• Travel News
• Guest Posts
• Write for us

What To Do in Limerick Ireland in One Day!

Categories Europe , Ireland

Limerick is a city on the West Coast of Ireland. It sits on the River Shannon and is the third biggest city in Ireland. I visited Limerick for a few hours as part of my 3 Day West Coast of Ireland Road Trip and I’m so glad I did as it’s a very local city full of history and not centered around tourism.

There’s a lot to see in Ireland, especially on the West Coast of Ireland so if you’re short for time I wouldn’t suggest spending one full day in Limerick, unless you want to, so here are a few ideas on what to do in Limerick and ways that you can spend a few hours in Limerick and get the most out of this Irish City!

What To Do In Limerick.

Keep Reading for what to do in Limerick and a Limerick travel guide!

How to Get to Limerick

I drove from Shannon to Limerick along the N18, it’s not far from Shannon or Shannon Airport. It’s also easily accessible from many other highways. If you’re arriving by bus then there’s a main bus station in the city so that should be fairly easy too.

Where to Park in Limerick

I parked in Limerick in the Arthur’s Quay car park in the middle of the city which was easy to find and really handy.

Things To Do in Limerick

King john’s castle.

For what to do in Limerick, one of the main tourist attractions in Limerick is King John’s Castle which sits on the River Shannon. It was built around 1210 as a stronghold and administrative centre for the region. It’s is one the best preserved Norman castles in Europe and costs €10.00 to enter.

Wondering what to do in Limerick?? Head to King Johns Castle first!

It has a lot of interactive sections inside which make the castle a good activity for children in Limerick and describes how important Ireland and Limerick were to Europe and Ireland through the centuries.

At the end you enter an outside area where a battle reenactment might be happening, there are rooms which you can visit which show what life was like when it was a castle and you can climb up two of the towers which give brilliant views over the city, river and surrounding Countryside.

Very close to the Castle is St Mary’s Cathedral which was founded in the 12th Century and is a stunning building worth passing by.

Limerick Milk Market

From the Castle I headed to the Limerick Milk Market  which is a good place to visit in Limerick and is open during the day on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. These markets are a real hub of the city and hold a lot of history seen as it was one of the markets that were opened in the mid to late 1800’s. These days the market is full of fresh, local produce more than likely direct from the producer.

I loved the buzz of the market and it was great to see local day-to-day life in action so go here when planning what to do in Limerick!

Related Post: Here are more things to do in Ireland .

Peoples Park

A place in Limerick that I didn’t visit but wish I had as I read it’s a great place to visit in Limerick is Peoples Park . This is a green oasis in an already very green city, filled with a range of trees. There is also a Georgian House and Gardens next to it which is a restored museum house open to the public holding lots of furniture and artefacts.

River Shannon

Whilst walking around you’re bound to keep passing the River Shannon . Not only is this River very pretty to see from the edge but you can get out on the river. When I was there on a Saturday morning there were lots of people kayaking in Limerick and then I walked past a kayaking hire shop, this would be a really good activity to do in Limerick with a few people to see the city from a different perspective when thinking about what to do in Limerick!

• More of my Ireland Posts:
• Helpful Tips To Prepare You For Your Ireland Road Trip!
• 3 Day West Coast of Ireland Road Trip Itinerary!
• 10 Places You Must Visit on the West Coast of Ireland!
• 5 Pubs in Dublin to Visit for a Great Craic!

Limerick City Museum

If you’re a museum lover a visit to the Limerick City Museum will be a must, its free to enter and has moved locations many times but it’s now sat in the City’s Art Gallery. The City Museum is home to thousands of items relating to the history of Limerick from the Stone Age to the present day.

Shopping in Limerick

Limerick also has plenty of shops and high street stores so if you’ve forgotten anything for your trip then you’ll most likely find a store to help you out!

Where to eat in Limerick

Seen as I only spent the morning in Limerick I didn’t get to try more than 1 place but the place I did go to was really good! The Buttery came up on the google’s rating when I searched for brunch in Limerick and when I arrived outside there was a bit of a queue so I knew it must be good!

It definitely appears to be the ‘in’ place to have brunch in Limerick with a range of breakfast options. I went for the Full Irish Breakfast because it was my first morning in Ireland after all and I wasn’t disappointed so I would highly recommend this place!

Places to Visit Near Limerick

Bunratty castle and folk park.

If you’re doing a road trip around Ireland / have a car, a place I would recommend going to near Limerick is Bunratty Village and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park . I actually visited here on a family holiday when I was about 11 and loved it so I know it’s a great activity for Children and Families in Limerick!

I drove through the village on my way from Shannon to Limerick this time and it brought back so many memories. The buildings in the village are very typical Irish stone built buildings and many of them are home to B&B’s now if you need somewhere to stay nearby.

Bunratty Castle is the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland built in 1425, and Bunratty Folk Park is a construction of village life from the 19th Century providing an experience of what life was like then so they are great experiences for adults and children!

And that should cover you for a morning or afternoon in Limerick before heading on to your next stop now you know what to do in Limerick!

Where To Stay in Limerick

Limerick has some great Airbnb options like this:

If you’re more of a hostel or hotel kind of person, see what  Booking.com  has to offer in Limerick!

If you liked this please share it! 🙂

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Tuesday 7th of November 2017

Limerick looks lovely! I think I would enjoy walking along the River Shannon and visiting King John's Castle if I was to ever go. I like the look of your breakfast too!!

• The ultimate Ireland travel planning guide

• Ireland Food and Drink
• Things to Do
• Destination Guides
• Itineraries
• Packing Lists
• Seasonal Guides
• Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Limerick: 6 of the Best Treaty City Neighborhoods

If you’re planning a trip to Limerick, one of the essential tasks on your to-do list is finding the perfect place to stay. Although Limerick is smaller than Dublin or Cork, it boasts several unique areas, each with its distinct charm and character. In this article, I’ll explore six wonderful neighborhoods in Limerick to help you decide where to stay in Limerick during your visit.

I’ve been to Limerick twice and always stay in the city center, as it’s very convenient to be within walking distance of restaurants, pubs, and stores. However, I’ll cover all the best places to stay in Limerick so you can determine the ideal location for your visit, whether you’re staying for a few days or stopping by during a road trip around Ireland.

Before we begin, it’s helpful to get a sense of Limerick’s geography. The River Shannon runs through the city, creating a beautiful landscape and dividing it into distinct areas. Limerick’s city center lies to the south of the river, and the surrounding neighborhoods showcase the city’s rich culture and history.

Are you ready to explore the best neighborhoods in Limerick for your stay and learn what each area has to offer? Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Tips for Deciding Where to Stay in Limerick

Whether you’re planning a road trip in Ireland , a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, Limerick is a great destination to add to your itinerary. From arts and history to sports, fine dining, and shopping, this lively city offers something for everyone.

Limerick is a walkable town, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you want to explore further away from the bustling city center, public transport is well-connected, convenient, and reliable, making it easy to get from one exciting place to the next.

When it comes to places to stay, Limerick has many charming neighborhoods to choose from when visiting. You’ll find that each area has its own unique flavor, attractions, and atmosphere. So, if you’re trying to decide where to stay during your visit, here are a few things to take into consideration:

• Keep your accommodation budget in mind
• Consider your preferred mode of transportation 
• Think about what amenities you need closeby

Limerick’s neighborhoods are brimming with Irish hospitality; whichever area you choose, you’ll feel right at home. And to help you out, I’ve rounded up some of the best places to stay in Limerick.

Map of Places to Stay in Limerick

6 Best Neighborhoods in Limerick to Stay In

To help you make a decision, here are 6 of my favorite neighborhoods in Limerick City. The list includes accommodation options and points of interest in each area.

1. Limerick City Center

Limerick’s City center boasts a rich and storied past as the oldest quarter in the city. This historic district has many well-preserved medieval and cultural attractions, illuminating the city’s fascinating history.

The city was founded by the Vikings in the 10th century and has been a key center of trade and commerce ever since. Over the centuries, Limerick City Center has been shaped by a variety of cultures, including the Normans and the Anglo-Irish. Today, the city center blends modern and historic architecture, with buildings ranging from medieval castles to modern shopping centers.

A Limerick City Walking Tour is a great way to explore all the significant Ireland landmarks in the area while soaking in the scenery and atmosphere. Plus, the scenery around the city center is stunning, with the River Shannon flowing right through the heart of it all.

Pros of Staying in Limerick City Center

• Within walking distance of popular tourist attractions
• Public transport is easily accessible
• Lively nightlife

Cons of Staying in Limerick City Center

• Higher cost of living
• Noisy, especially over weekends
• Very crowded

Where to Stay in Limerick City Center

The Limerick City Hotel : The hotel is spacious and modern, with all the amenities you need to make your stay comfortable. It boasts a prime location in the city center, with stunning views over the River Shannon. You’ll be just a stone’s throw away from Colbert Bus and Train Station, making it the perfect spot for getting around easily. The restaurant and bar are great places to unwind after a long day of exploring Limerick. Rates start at $127 per night .

The George Hotel : With its convenient location on the corner of O’Connell Street, it is the perfect starting point for all your adventures in the city. The George is a modern and comfortable hotel with excellent service. Its restaurant, Vincenzo Grill, offers fresh local cuisine, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. Rates start at $150 per night .

Things to Do in Limerick City Center

• King John’s Castle
• The Milk Market
• Hunt Museum
• Limerick Museum
• People’s Park

Taking a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher? Be sure to read these Cliffs of Moher tips first.

2. Ennis Road

Ennis Road is a sophisticated and popular area in Limerick City, just a few steps from the bustling city center. It boasts a rich history, dating back to the 18th century when it was a rural area with a few scattered farms and cottages. In the 19th century, it became more populated with the development of several grand homes and estates, such as the Georgian-style North Circular Road House.

Today, Ennis Road is a buzzing, upmarket area with a classy atmosphere. The neighborhood’s public gardens and open spaces are beautifully maintained and offer stunning river views, pretty walkways, and ample shopping opportunities, making it a nice option for where to stay in Limerick. You’ll love being in this area during a 7-day trip to Ireland .

Pros of Staying in Ennis Road

• Close to the city center
• Good public transport links
• Vibrant and friendly community
• Plenty of dining options

Cons of Staying in Ennis Road

• Expensive cost of living
• Traffic congestion
• Noise pollution

Where to Stay in Ennis Road

Woodfield House Hotel : This hotel’s location couldn’t be better — the city center is a breezy 15-minute walk away. The hotel has 26 cozy rooms to choose from. It also has an intimate bar that is popular with the locals, allowing you to experience Irish hospitality firsthand. Rates start at $106 per night .

Limerick Strand Hotel : This hotel’s spacious rooms come with king-size beds, flat-screen TVs, and 24-hour room service. The hotel also offers a swimming pool, hot tubs, and a steam room for the ultimate relaxation. Be sure to indulge in traditional Irish foods at the hotel’s River Bar & Restaurant, where you can have a Guinness and enjoy the scenery. Rates start at $192 per night .

Things to Do in Ennis Road

• O’Connell Monument
• Gaelic Grounds
• Boutique shopping
• Shelbourne Park
• North Circular Road Park
• St. Joseph’s Church
• St. Mary’s Cathedral

Continue your trip and head north to find the best places to stay in Dingle .

3. Castletroy

Just over three miles east of Limerick’s city center lies Castletroy — a neighborhood brimming with a vibrant atmosphere. Originally, it was a small village with a castle built by the Normans in the 13th century. However, over the years, the area has grown and developed into a thriving community, complete with a large shopping center, a university campus, and a variety of residential areas.

Castletroy is home to the University of Limerick, giving it an active, youthful feel with plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants catering to the student population, with many considering it one of the best Irish cities to visit .

It also boasts several gorgeous parks and green spaces, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as perfect when you’re looking for things to do in Limerick for kids .

Pros of Staying in Castletroy

• Well-connected to public transportation
• Family-friendly neighborhood
• Plenty of amenities (shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants)

Cons of Staying in Castletroy

• Heavy traffic during peak hours
• Further from the city center

Where to Stay in Castletroy

Kilmurry Lodge Hotel : This charming family-run hotel is ideally situated just a 10-minute walk from the bustling city center. The guest rooms are very comfortable, with power showers, free WiFi, and complimentary on-site parking. You can wake up to a delicious full Irish breakfast in the Kilmurry Suite and savor locally-sourced produce with every bite. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll through the hotel’s beautiful 3-acre gardens for a great start to your morning. Rates start at $155 per night .

Castletroy Park Hotel : This hotel is situated right next to the University of Limerick and the National Technological Park. It is perfect if you want a spacious and bright room, complete with king-size beds and free WiFi. But that’s not all — the hotel’s Aqua and Leisure Club offers a pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna, and even a Beauty Salon where you can get a massage or full body scrub. Plus, you’ll be close to Shannon International Airport and the main motorways, with a bus stop right outside the hotel to take you wherever you want to go. Rates start at $169 per night.

Things to Do in Castletroy

• Castletroy Neighborhood Park
• University of Limerick
• Castletroy Golf Club
• Plassey Park
• Castletroy Shopping Center

4. Corbally

Corbally has a rich history dating back to the Viking era when it was known as “Corbachlan.” In the 18th and 19th centuries, Corbally became a popular destination for wealthy merchants and traders who built large homes in the area. Today, many of these historic homes have been preserved and can still be seen in the neighborhood.

With its peaceful residential streets and stunning views of the river, Corbally is the perfect retreat if you are seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you enjoy strolling or cycling through the streets, you’ll love the many trails and paths that wind through this picturesque area.

Pros of Staying in Corbally

• The neighborhood is very safe
• Plenty of green spaces and parks
• Many nearby amenities

Cons of Staying in Corbally

• Less frequent bus routes
• Few accommodation options
• Very little nightlife

Where to Stay in Corbally

Absolute Hotel : This hotel offers chic rooms with modern decor, spacious rain showers, plasma TVs, and free WiFi. Its restaurant, Harry’s on the River, serves delicious international cuisine and creative cocktails on an outdoor terrace overlooking the Abbey River. The hotel is also home to the Vanilla Browns Spa, where you can enjoy relaxing body and beauty treatments in a tranquil environment. Rates start at $171 per night.

Things To Do in Corbally

• Corbally Baths & Red Path Walkway
• Corbally Linear Park
• Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
• The Mill Bar
• The Boat Club

Raheen’s past is deeply rooted in its rural origins, with only a handful of quaint farms and cottages scattered throughout the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. As Limerick grew and expanded into the 20th century, so too did Raheen, evolving into a bustling suburban area with a distinct character and charm. 

This lovely suburban area is located in the southwest of Limerick. It is a pleasant place to book a room when looking for where to stay in Limerick, especially if you want a quieter alternative to the city center. The neighborhood has gorgeous residential properties with beautiful gardens and access to all the amenities you might need.

Pros of Staying in Raheen

• Convenient location close to the M7 Motorway
• Plenty of shopping options at the nearby Crescent Shopping Center
• Well-connected to public transport

Cons of Staying in Raheen

• Further from the city center (around 22 miles)
• Fewer options for nightlife
• Accommodation choices are limited

Where to Stay in Raheen

South Court Hotel : This hotel offers 124 spacious and luxurious rooms. It is rated among the top 10 hotels in Limerick City, and with its excellent service, elegant decor, and amenities, it is easy to understand why. The hotel also features the award-winning Off The Bone Gastropub (to try some tasty Irish drinks ), a Fitness Suite, and the Cream Room Coffee House. Rates start at $140 per night .

Things To Do in Raheen

• Raheen Community Park
• Raheen Woods
• The Copper Room
• The Elm Tree

6. Dooradoyle

Dooradoyle is located in the southwestern part of Limerick, just a few miles from the city center. Its main attraction is the Crescent Shopping Center, one of the largest shopping malls in Ireland. It features everything from luxury boutiques to cinemas and a large, diverse food court.

This neighborhood is perfect if you are looking to explore the city while enjoying the comfort of a suburban area. Dooradoyle is conveniently located near main motorways like the M7, so you can easily spend a day in Dublin or explore other parts of the country.

Pros of Staying in Dooradoyle

• Plenty of shops, supermarkets, and restaurants
• Good transport links, with several bus routes serving the area
• Diverse community

Cons of Staying in Dooradoyle

• Some parts of the neighborhood are noisy due to the proximity to major roads and highways
• Parking space throughout the neighborhood is limited
• Less nightlife and cultural attractions

Where to Stay in Dooradoyle

Almeda Bed & Breakfast : This cozy and comfortable guesthouse on the main Dooradoyle Road is within easy reach of the River Shannon, the University of Limerick, and other local attractions. It offers a range of facilities, including a homey lounge area, a garden, and free parking. The guesthouse also serves a delicious homestyle breakfast each morning, with various options to suit all dietary requirements. Rates start at $103 per night.

Maldron Hotel & Leisure Center : This hotel is just a short distance from the city center and features 143 comfortable guest rooms. It boasts a range of facilities, including a leisure center with a gym, pool, sauna, and steam room. The comfortable and convenient hotel also offers guests an on-site restaurant and bar, nearby public transport links, and free parking. Rates start at $128.

Things To Do in Dooradoyle

• Crescent Shopping Center
• Dooradoyle Park
• Thomond Park Stadium
• Dooradoyle Library
• Collins Bar
• The Unicorn Restaurant
• Dooradoyle Leisure Center

Hopefully, this helps you find where to stay in Limerick to make your trip that much easier!

Marissa became obsessed with Ireland when she first visited in 2015, and has been back numerous times since to explore more of the Emerald Isle. She started this site to help others plan their trip to Ireland based off her experiences.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Portugal Holidays

Lanzarote Holidays

Gran Canaria Holidays

Spanish Holidays

Greek Holidays

Popular Holidays

Embark on a journey to explore an array of captivating destinations across the globe. From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of Bali, our destinations cater to every traveler's dream.

Meeru Island Resort & Spa 4* 8th April 2024 for 10 Nights Double Room Garden View, Full Board Return flights from Dublin Return transfers Checked in bags Upgrades available

€3385pp

Fosshotel Baron 3* 5th February 2024 3 Nights Room Only Return flights from Dublin Return transfers, Checked in bags Northern Lights and Blue Lagoon Tours Upgrades available

€830pp

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu 5* 15th March 24 for 7 nights Beach Villa Half Board Return flights Return transfers Checked in bags Upgrades available

€2620pp

Centerhotel Klopp 3* 27th February 2024 for 3 Nights Bed & Breakfast Return flights from Dublin Return transfers, Checked in bags Northern Lights, Golden Circle and Sky Lagoon Tours. Upgrades available

€980pp

Explore stays in trending destinations

When it comes to booking a holiday, we know everyone likes something different - So at Best4Travel we have designed our holidays with you in mind.

Best4Travel is an Irish specialist in discounted holidays and part of Wecanbookit Ireland Ltd, one of Ireland's largest travel agencies. Wecanbookit Ireland LTD is based in our head office in Dunshaughlin, Co Meath & employs over 50 people within our 11 shops across the country.

• Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get updates everytime

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Ireland » Limerick

10 AWESOME Hostels in Limerick | 2024 guide!

Nobody travels to Ireland to stay in busy urban centers. The Ireland you were dreaming of when you first booked your plane tickets was one filled with rolling green hills, dewy meadows, and rustic stone walls lining a bumpy dirt road. One of the best places to base yourself out of to get in touch with the classical side of Ireland is Limerick. Not only will you be staying at the front door of some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the world, but Limerick is also home to a rich history and thriving culture.

In Limerick, you will find tons of old churches, castles, and villages to explore, but what may have you rethinking your trip to this rural idyllic town is the fact that it lacks hostels and cheap guesthouses for you budget backpackers out there.

Lucky for you, we made exploring the beauty of Ireland easy! With our one-stop guide, you will be able to find all the best hostels in Limerick, putting you up in dorm beds that fit your budget!

Pack your bags, the rolling hills of Ireland await you just after a few clicks of the mouse!

The Best Hostels in Limerick

What to pack for your limerick hostel, why you should travel to limerick, faq about hostels in limerick, more epic hostels in ireland.

Now we will kick off our list of the top hostels in Limerick! Each stay is a little different from the last so keep your eyes open for that one hostel or guesthouse that best suits you!

Best Overall Hostel in Limerick –  Ballyhoura Luxury Hostel

• Shared Kitchen

Located in Kilfinane, Limerick Country Ballyhoura Luxury Hostel will hook you up with some of the cheapest beds in the entire region. With not much to choose from when it comes to backpacker’s accommodation, this hostel will have you saving money while exploring one of the most beautiful areas of Ireland .

Although you will be staying a bit off of the beaten path, Ballyhoura Luxury Hostel is right by some great restaurants and pubs, meaning you won’t have to wander the streets aimlessly hoping to run into a place to eat. Top it off with a lounge, shared kitchen (so you can cook up everything you picked up at the nearby farmer’s market! ), and games, this is one of the few places where you can have an authentic backpacker experience in Limerick!

Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Limerick – Cappavilla Village Castletroy

Although you may not have a whole lot to choose from when it comes to budget accommodation in Limerick, Cappavilla Village Castletroy will put you up in cheap private rooms with access to all of the perks of living on a college campus.

From single rooms with shared living rooms to fully furnished apartments, you have a range of options when it comes to how you will enjoy Limerick. Not only will you have everything you need to feel right at home at the hotel, but the surrounding college campus will also have tons of bars and restaurants to choose from every night!

Best Cheap Hostel in Limerick – Troy Self Catering Village

At Troy Self Catering Village you will not only be getting some of the cheapest beds in all of Limerick, but you will also be staying in your very own private room for the same price as a dorm bed. There is no need to put yourself up in a hostel when you can pamper yourself by staying in your very own single room or apartment.

Not only will you have all the comfort of your own stay, but Troy Village is also located on the University of Limerick campus meaning you will have tons of bars and restaurants nearby. Top it off with having all the best sites in Limerick just a short walk away, you couldn’t ask for a better place to base yourself out of!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Best Hostel for Couples in Limerick – Cathedral Lodge

Why don’t you and your special travel partner ditch the hostels for a few nights and reignite the romance by checking into a cozy B&B in the heart of Limerick? Located right in the middle of the downtown, in the center of the Medieval district, you will have all of the best sites of Limerick located right outside your door.

From cathedrals to museums, you simply have to take one step outside of your home and all of the beauty of Limerick is waiting for you. Top it off with tons of restaurants and pubs nearby, you could not ask for a better B&B to kick off your holiday in Limerick!

Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Limerick – Courtbrack Accommodation

After some time on the road, all of you bloggers and vloggers out there will need to find a stay in Limerick to base yourself out of for a few days in order to catch up on some much-needed writing and editing. For digital nomads, the best place in Limerick to call home is Courtbrack Accommodation.

Although the name may not sound too imaginative, this budget guesthouse will be putting you up in cheap single rooms for the exact same price as a hostel. This means you will have all the peace and quiet you need to get your work down. Complete with a shared kitchen, lounge, and a cafe serving breakfast every morning, this is one stay in Limerick where you will be extending your stay night after night!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

More of the Best Hostels in Limerick

Scapaflow bnb.

Sacaflow BnB is another homestay that will put you right up close and personal with true Irish living. Putting you far enough away from the city so you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside but close enough to still enjoy all the cathedrals and museums of the downtown, you could not ask for a better place to stay. You will feel right at home at this BnB with their lounge, garden, and breakfast served every morning. What really makes this stay stand apart is the hosts who will make you feel welcome and part of the family while exploring the beauty of Limerick.

Fiona’s BnB

• Shared Bathroom

For the same price as some of the hostels, you can upgrade yourself by staying in a private room in this cozy BnB. Putting you just minutes away from downtown Limerick and the nearby university, you will have all of the best restaurants, bars, and sites of the city just a short drive away.

Even though the center of town is not too far away, Fiona’s BnB will have you immersed in the beauty of the Irish countryside. With its very own garden and stunning views of the surrounding farmland, you will find no better place in Limerick to wake up to every morning!

Lyntom House BnB

• Breakfast Included

Lyntom House is a place where you can totally get away from all of the tourists in Ireland and get in touch with a more authentic side to Limerick County.

Putting you in the heart of the countryside, this BnB will have you surrounded by gorgeous rolling hills, forests, and a peaceful rural atmosphere. Although you’ll be a bit more remote here, you will still have all the modern comforts you need to feel right at home. Top it off with a terrace, garden, and breakfast served every morning, you will feel as if you are part of the family.

Jeans’ BnB

• Located in Caherconlish

Even though you will be staying in a BnB you will have all of the comfort and privacy of calling this entire stay your own. Putting you up in a detached house in a quaint traditional Irish village, you will practically be moving into your very own slice of heaven in Limerick.

With a shared kitchen and lounge, you will always have the option of mixing with the hosts or getting some peace and quiet in your own room. Located 15 minutes away from downtown Limerick by car, you will be able to take in all the country bliss of the small village while still having all of the lively pubs with traditional music a short drive away!

Shanakyle House

This is another cozy homestay that will put you a bit closer to all of the action happening in downtown Limerick while still enjoying the simplicity of traditional Irish country living. Perfect for budget backpackers, this single room will have you feeling right at home for a price that won’t totally bleed your wallet dry.

Top it off with a shared kitchen and a garden, you will feel more as if you are staying with family than some random hosts. With a location just minutes away from downtown Limerick, this is one of the best places in the county to kick off your holiday and base yourself out of to explore all the sleepy villages in the region!

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from us, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straight forward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art we have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out our definitive  Hostel Packing list  for our top packing tips!

Limerick may not have all that many hostels to choose from, but this also makes the great opportunity to leave the backpackers behind and see the city through a different lens by staying in a guesthouse or a BnB.

We totally understand if you are a bit torn between a couple of different stays in Limerick. If that is the case let us point you in the right direction! For a classic backpackers experience in Limerick, there is no place better to stay than Ballyhoura Luxury Hostel,  our pick for the best hostel in Limerick!

Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Limerick.

What are the best hostels in Limerick?

Looking for the best accommodation joints in Limerick? Check out some our faves: – Ballyhoura Luxury Hostel – Cappavilla Village Castletroy – Troy Self Catering Village

Are there cheap hostels in Limerick?

At Troy Self Catering Village, you get the cheapest beds in Limerick PLUS your very own private room (for the usual price of a dorm). It’s got a great location too!

What’s the best hostel with a private room in Limerick?

Cappavilla Village Castletroy & Fiona’s BnB are both great options if you’re looking for a little more privacy during your stay in Limerick!

Where can I book a hostel for Limerick, Ireland?

Hostels in Limerick aren’t exactly poppin’, so we mostly used a mix of Hostelworld & Booking.com for this one. Go get yours!

Travel Safety Tips for Limerick

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Ireland.

Planning an epic trip all across Ireland or even Europe itself?

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

For more cool hostel guides around Europe, check out:

• Best Hostels in Cork
• Best Hostels in Galway

Over to you

Strap on your boots and get ready to hit the road, with your walking stick in hand, you will be transported to a more romantic and simpler time in Limerick. With the traditional thatched roof houses, cobbled streets, and centuries-old churches, this is the kind of town where you could see yourself unpacking your bags and moving into for good!

The first speed bump you will face is finding a cheap backpackers hostel that will fit the budget of an adventurer traveling on a shoestring. Even if you are able to secure that bed, each stay will set the tone for your time in Limerick. So be sure to pick that one hostel that will have you enjoying Limerick the way that you want!

Have you ever traveled to Limerick and stayed at a great hostel we may have missed? Let us know in the comments below!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Taking the train in Ireland – what you need to know

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

A train travels along the Rosslare, Wexford to Dublin line in Ireland © Irish Rail

Traveling by train is one of Ireland ’s great, if under-appreciated, pleasures.

It’s a small island and the rail network is limited, so no journey is especially long – but riding the rails across the country is one of the loveliest ways to enjoy the rolling countryside.

Compared to its European counterparts, Irish trains aren’t especially spectacular, but this is a country that doesn’t need high-speed or sleeper trains: you roll along at a maximum of 160km/h (99mph) and before you know it you’re on the other side of the island.

The particular nature of Irish demographics has shaped train travel in Ireland: with around a quarter of the population clustered in the greater Dublin region, it makes sense that most train journeys begin or end in the capital. In Northern Ireland the same is true of Belfast .

Irish trains might not be especially quick or super luxurious, but they’re an efficient and eco-friendly way of exploring the island – so long as your explorations are focused on the major cities and towns. Here is our essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The lowdown on rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are efficient, relatively frequent and usually on time.  Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann operates the entire network of trains in the Republic, from intercity trains linking the major urban centers to the busy commuter network that services the greater Dublin region.

There are two main lines into the west and three into the south and southwest; spurs off the main lines connect to a host of smaller towns throughout the country. There’s also a line to Belfast, from where  Translink services connect the city with the Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry) .

Within the greater Dublin region, a network of commuter services connects the capital with a host of suburbs and dormitory towns in the surrounding counties. Dublin’s coastline between the northside suburbs of Howth and Malahide, and Greystones in County Wicklow is served by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are some notable gaps in the country’s rail network, with no services in counties Donegal , Monaghan and Cavan , and no trains into West Cork . Some towns – like Buttevant in Cork or Annacotty in Limerick – are on the rail line but they’re bypassed as they have no functioning station.

Ireland’s bigger train stations – including Cork , Limerick , Galway , Sligo, Belfast and the two in Dublin – are all pretty well stocked when it comes to picking up supplies and other assorted sundries for your journey. Most other stations will have a small shop.

Train tickets are relatively good value

The good news about traveling by train in Ireland is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to train travel in some places, such as the UK, for example. If you buy it online, a standard one-way fare between Dublin Heuston and Kent Station in Cork costs €30–35, and around €55 in first class.

Online is the best place to buy your tickets for train travel in the Irish Republic. Not only do you get the best fares (with savings of up to 50% compared to buying the ticket at the station), but you can purchase your ticket up to 90 days in advance and reserve a seat when you do.

You have the option of collecting your bought ticket from a machine at the station as you’re boarding, or downloading a QR code at the point of purchase. If you wait to buy your ticket at the station, you’ll pay significantly more and have to get there early to queue up at the ticket kiosk.

For travel in Northern Ireland, you’re better off buying the ticket at the station as only a limited number of tickets are available online. Show up a short time before your intended departure time and just buy your ticket there.

Only a handful of services offer first class, but upgrading is relatively inexpensive. On average, expect to pay around €20–25 more to sit in first. There are three kinds of first class service on Irish trains. CityGold is on direct Dublin to Cork services, and includes an onboard host and a complimentary newspaper on selected early morning services. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast offers the same, plus a fine breakfast. Premier Class is similar, but is only available on direct services between Dublin and Tralee and some Dublin to Cork trains.

Some discounts and offers apply

There are discounted fares for children and young adults aged between 19 and 25, as long as they have a valid discount card. Under fives and those aged 66 and over travel for free.

The commuter network in the Greater Dublin area has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and a host of towns in the surrounding counties.

There are two rail passes aimed at visitors. The Trekker Four Day (€88) offers unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services on four consecutive days from the date of issue. The Explorer (adult/child €128/64) provides five days of travel on all services in a 15-day window.

However, before investing in either, be sure that you plan on making the most out of it. The limited rail network means that connections are limited and traveling between some destinations involves backtracking: Cork and Waterford are both on the south coast, but to get from one to the other means travelling to Limerick, while Sligo and Westport are only 140km (87 miles) apart along the west coast, but to go between them by train you’ll have to travel through Dublin – which is on the other side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket gives passengers unlimited train travel on a Sunday for £9 (£4.50 for children). Tickets are available from all ticket offices, the mLink ticketing app and from the conductor on the train.

These are the busiest times to travel by train

Unsurprisingly, peak times for train travel coincide with busy rush hour periods. Early morning services to Dublin from cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick can be busy, especially if the train is due to arrive in Dublin around the start of the working day. Friday evening trains departing Dublin can also be quite busy. However, as online bookings also include the option of booking a seat, you’ll never have to stand.

The commuter network is busiest on weekdays from 7am to 9am and from 4:30pm to 6:30pm as thousands of people travel in and out of work. You can’t prebook seats on these services, so plenty of people do end up standing. Keep an eye out on changing schedules, especially for weekend and holiday travel, as frequencies diminish.

The train network is limited, but it has some benefits over road travel

There are no rail links to any Irish airport, which means you’re relying on taxis, private cars or buses once you arrive in the country. Irish ferry ports are better connected to rail lines, however, and you can catch trains in Rosslare, Dublin and Larne; there is no rail link to Belfast Port.

If you want to reach the more remote corners of the island, then the Irish rail network is quite limited, and a car will give you the flexibility you need. However, rental fees can be very expensive and fuel is another considerable cost, with the price of unleaded and diesel hovering between €1.75 and €2 a liter. Parking is also pricey in all urban centers, especially Dublin.

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get around, but it can be a slow business, as most make lots of stops along the way. There are some direct express services, but they are at the mercy of traffic, which can also add considerable time to a journey compared to traveling by train. Plus, buses don’t have bathrooms, with those traveling longer distances relying entirely on rest stops.

On board facilities vary depending on the type of train

There are two kinds of Irish trains: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains are all the same – relatively modern with comfortable seats in standard class and fancier recliners in first – and they travel at speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph). There’s no journey in Ireland that is longer than 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are slightly older, with less comfortable seats; older trains are used on some small-distance spur lines in rural areas and are very basic (facilities include seats and a toilet).

While Ireland’s flagship service is the one between Dublin and Cork, the fanciest train is the Enterprise service between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, which is a joint venture between Irish Rail and Translink. This train is on a par with most services you’ll find in mainland Europe and first class is the most luxurious of any in the country.

All InterCity trains have three-pin sockets at every row where you can plug in a charger or a laptop. Most commuter trains in the greater Dublin area also have sockets. All trains have toilets and there is a cross-network wi-fi service operated by Irish Rail, but it is patchy and inconsistent. Translink has its own wi-fi network, which is accessible on all bus and rail services in the north, but, like in the Republic, you’re at the mercy of signal strength and contention levels.

Food options are pretty limited. There is a trolley service on the Dublin to Cork service, while the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast operates a full service menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers also get a pretty good breakfast as part of their ticket.

Some trains on the Dublin to Cork route have a “quiet carriage” (usually Carriage G, marked in purple when booking) where the use of phones is prohibited and passengers are encouraged to keep noise levels down.

You can bring a bike on any Irish Rail train for free, although there are some restrictions during busy periods (such as sporting fixtures and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only one to have a dedicated bike storage area; all other InterCity trains have (very) limited bicycle spaces within the passenger compartment – it’s not unusual for only two bikes to be allowed into the compartment, so be sure to book in advance. Bikes are not allowed on commuter and DART services during peak hours – before 10am and from 3:30pm to 7pm Monday to Friday.

There are many scenic train routes: here are the best

No matter where you are in Ireland you’re going to find a beautiful landscape or two, but some journeys are worth keeping your eyes wide open for.

Dublin to Sligo

Once you’ve gone past the huge suburban sprawl of the greater Dublin area, the landscapes get quite gentle; beyond Mullingar the train skirts alongside the edge of beautiful Lough Owel. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is the best in the country, with the most comfortable seats and the best food options – especially in first class. The train skirts alongside the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, so be sure to sit on that side as you travel (on the right-hand side if you’re traveling to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink service between Northern Ireland’s second city and Coleraine is a stunner, a 40-minute journey along the Causeway Coast that comes with beautiful beaches, huge cliffs and unimpeded views out over the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

It’s only a 10-minute journey, but the trip from Downpatrick in County Down to the monastic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place in a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel train) that chugs its way along the line, over the River Quoile and past the drumlin-specked landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of Ireland’s most scenic trips is the 25-minute trip from Cork City to the seaside town of Cobh , which takes you along the river (sit on the right for the best views), past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water. You can always stop off at Fota and visit the  wildlife park  there.

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

All InterCity services are nominally accessible, but if you do need assistance you will need to book it in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. This usually means that a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair access, but we have also heard plenty of anecdotal evidence of staff simply lifting a wheelchair onto a train, which depending on the individual can either be a help or an annoying hindrance. Whatever you do, make sure to communicate your requirements before you travel as assistance is not guaranteed otherwise.

For passengers with learning difficulties or any issue where there may be a challenge with communication (such as autism) Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards such as the  JAM card , which inform the interlocutor of the holder’s condition. JAM cards are available online or at mainline train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Sligo.

Explore related stories

Sustainable Travel

Apr 1, 2024 • 11 min read

With its small size, flat terrain and range of public transport options, getting around Dublin is easy. Here are the best ways to travel in Dublin city.

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

May 27, 2023 • 10 min read

Dec 27, 2022 • 8 min read

Aug 3, 2022 • 7 min read

Jun 26, 2020 • 2 min read

Jan 22, 2020 • 11 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 8, 2024 • 7 min read

12 of the Best and Funniest Limericks Ever Written

Our pick of the greatest limericks – selected by Dr Oliver Tearle

The limerick is a poetic form shrouded in mystery: nobody knows why they’re named after Limerick, who invented the form, or when they were first composed.

What we do know is that they’ve been with us for a long time – the earliest limericks date back to the Middle Ages – and that, at their best, limericks can be very, very funny. They can also demonstrate a masterly control of verse form and admirable economy of language.

There’s even a limerick in Shakespeare’s  Othello . In Shakespeare‘s great tragedy, written in around 1604, Iago sings a drinking song which he claims he heard in England: ‘And let me the canakin clink, clink; And let me the canakin clink: A soldier’s a man; A life’s but a span; Why then let a soldier drink.’ And from the  Roxburgh Ballads , published in 1640, we have this poem, ‘Mondayes Worke’:

Good morow, neighbour Gamble, Come let you and I goe ramble; Last night I was shot Through the braines with a pot, And now my stomacke doth wamble.

(‘Wambly’ is an old word for ‘afflicted with nausea’.)

In this post, we’ve gathered up a dozen of our favourite limericks, which are among the funniest limericks ever written and the finest examples of the form. Many of them are anonymous, but where the author of the limerick is known, we’ve mentioned this.

Warning: some of these classic limericks are rather rude, to say the least.

The limerick packs laughs anatomical Into space that is quite economical. But the good ones I’ve seen So seldom are clean And the clean ones so seldom are comical.

While Titian was mixing rose madder His model reclined on a ladder. The position to Titian Suggested coition, So he ran up the ladder and had ’er.

The following three classic examples of the limerick were all written by one man, the poet Algernon Charles Swinburne (1837-1909). Swinburne was one of the most technically accomplished poets of the Victorian age.

But as well as the variety of verse forms he mastered, he also wrote about a number of risque and taboo themes, especially sexual themes, in his work. (He was a colourful figure, known for his saucy private life as much as for his poetry, and tales of his fondness for flagellation and naked sliding down banisters are well-known.)

In a separate post, we have selected some of Swinburne’s greatest poems , showcasing the full range of his talents, but the next three limericks on this list also show his talent for ribaldry in the five-line verse form.

There was a young lady of Norway Who hung by her toes in a doorway. She said to her beau ‘Just look at me Joe, I think I’ve discovered one more way.’

There was a young man from Dundee Who b*ggered an ape in a tree. The results were quite horrid: All a*se and no forehead, Three balls and a purple goatee.

There was a young girl of Baroda Who built an erotic pagoda; The walls of its halls Were festooned with the balls And the tools of the fools that bestrode her.

The following limerick was written by Oliver Wendell Holmes Senior (1809-94), the American poet and polymath:

God’s plan made a hopeful beginning. But man spoiled his chances by sinning. We trust that the story Will end in God’s glory, But at present the other side’s winning.

I met a lewd nude in Bermuda Who thought she was shrewd: I was shrewder; She thought it quite crude To be wooed in the nude; I pursued her, subdued her, and screwed her.

There once was a young man named Cyril Who was had in a wood by a squirrel, And he liked it so good That he stayed in the wood Just as long as the squirrel stayed virile.

There was a young lady of Chichester Who made all the saints in their niches stir. One morning at matins Her breasts in white satin Made the Bishop of Chichester’s britches stir.

The thoughts of the rabbit on sex Are seldom, if ever, complex; For a rabbit in need Is a rabbit indeed, And does just as a person expects.

We’ll conclude this selection of limericks with one by the British writer Norman Douglas (1868-1952), who is probably best-known for his 1917 novel  South Wind .

The frequenters of our picture palaces Have no use for psychoanalysis; And although Doctor Freud Is distinctly annoyed They cling to their old-fashioned fallacies.

About the limerick

Curiously, nobody knows for sure why limericks are named limericks. There have been numerous theories put forward for why the five-line verse known as the ‘limerick’ is so named, but none of them is conclusive. The name ‘limerick’ was first applied to the five-line form in the late nineteenth century, and one theory holds that comic verses once contained the line ‘Will [or won’t] you come (up) to Limerick?’

But although the poems are almost certainly named after Limerick in Ireland, whether this is the true explanation of the name’s origin remains unproven.

One thing’s for sure: the limerick, unlike the sonnet or other poetic forms, seems to be a peculiarly English form. It has even been described by Brander Matthews as perhaps the only original verse form in the whole of English literature. For more information, see our list of curious facts about the limerick form .

You might also enjoy these classic humorous poems and our short biographies of Victorian writers told in limerick form .

Discover more from Interesting Literature

Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.

Type your email…

10 thoughts on “12 of the Best and Funniest Limericks Ever Written”

You’re right about them being rude:). I think the first one is the best as it’s the wittiest.

There was a young man from Darjeeling Got on to a train from New Ealing It said on the door Don’t Spit on the Floor So he looked up and spat at the ceiling.

Reblogged this on newauthoronline .

• Pingback: 12 of the Best and Funniest Limericks Ever Written — Interesting Literature | psychosputnik

There was a young lady from Goring Who asked “Is this the place to come whoring?” A Gentleman said “You are wrong in the head All you hear around here is folks snoring”

It’s a chance for us illiterates to try our hand at a little verse , but it’s not quite as easy as it looks.

I offer you the following surrealist and totally unerotic limeric which I came across years ago, I don’t know where:

There was an old man of Dundee Who was horribly stung by a wasp When they said, “Does it hurt?” He said, “No, not at all! It can do it again if it likes!”

The ‘people’s poet’ John Cooper Clarke said that he made this up. I was in the theatre when he came out with it, and I followed the limerick apart from the opening line. ‘There was a young man named Eric, Got stung on his by a wasp. When asked ‘did it hurt?’ He said ‘No, not a lot. It can do it again if it likes.’ What is annoying is that I read it in a book and I cannot remember who wrote it. I so want it to be Michael Palin. A Monty Python classic if ever I heard one.

The Limerick is furtive and mean and must be kept under strict quarantine or she escapes to the slums and quickly becomes disorderly, drunk, and obscene.

There was a young lady from Frome Whose boobies popped out like balloons The butler walked by With a glint in his eye And popped them back in with warm spoons

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

Call Us: 061 20444 4 Mon-Fri 09.30 – 17.30 Saturday 10.00 - 16.00

Flexible Payment Options

Pay Monthly (T&Cs Apply)

Low €10 Deposits on Hotel Only Bookings (T&Cs Apply)

Fully Licenced & Bonded

100% Financial Protection - TO189

Irish Owned & Operated Since 1971

At Limerick Travel we offer cheap package holidays from Ireland to suit all budgets and needs. Book your 2024 sun holiday online with Low Deposits & Monthly Payment Options available

SPECIAL OFFERS

Depart 30th November 2024

Day Trip ex Dublin

Sailing on the 15th Jun 2024

8 Nights / Full Board

Celebrity Solstice

Travel 18th February 2024

7 Nights / Half Board

3* Hotel Del Viale

31st May 2024

Hotel Cheyenne

CHEAP SUN HOLIDAY OFFERS

Travel insurance.

As an award winning travel Insurance provider. We provide Annual, Single Trip and Backpacker travel insurance to suit different trips abroad, budgets and needs.

Supercharge your planning powers

Subscribe to get the latest travel offers and holiday deals straight to your inbox Plan your n ext trip on the go.

Subscribe Form

[email protected]

Useful Links Privacy Policy      |     Terms & Conditions       |    About       |      My Booking      |       Contact Us       |    Destination Guide s         S ustainability Policy

Visit Our Other Websites

FlyforGolf.com - golf holidays worldwide     |    LetsGoCruising - cruise holidays

Licenced by the Irish Aviation Authority, TA 0166 & TO 189

Limerick Travel. Registered Address: Limerick Travel, Bedford Row, Limerick, Ireland

Agent Login

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

This Quaint Town in Portugal Was Just Named the Best Place to Invest in Europe — and It Has Stunning Beaches

Lush pine forests, cobblestone streets, endless ocean views, and low real estate prices await in this quaint community in northern Portugal.

Xurxo Lobato/Getty Images

Portugal is on everyone's mind these days. The country's sunny weather , many beaches , and affordable cost of living have made it a popular choice for retirees and digital nomads. However, as is often the case, real estate prices in some of its most sought-after regions, like the capital, Lisbon and Algarve , have soared. But that doesn't mean you should give up on your dream of owning property in Portugal.

A new report by International Living ranked the small, under-the-radar- town of Caminha the best place to invest in real estate in Europe for its value and growth potential. 

The community is located in the northwest along the mouth of the Minho River, which separates Portugal from Spain, and is home to about 16,000 residents. International Living gave Caminha a perfect score of 10 in the relative value category and nine for quality of life and stability.

"Caminha, which is only separated from Spain by a river, completely charmed me," Ronan McMahon, founder of Real Estate Trend Alert and author of International Living's Global Real Estate Index, told Travel + Leisure . "It has a beautiful Old Town surrounded by a verdant and bucolic countryside, with mountains, rivers, forests, and fields overflowing with brightly colored flowers and fruit trees heavy with their bounty. And then there are the stunning Atlantic beaches."

The ancient town has plenty of character, with fountains, churches, and other buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. And it's easily accessible from Porto, which is just an hour and 15 minutes south, providing access to an international airport. 

Jeff Opdyke, International Living's personal finance editor, called Caminha a "holdover of Portugal before tourism and modernity swept over Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto," where affordable real estate is still the norm. 

Potential buyers can find apartments downtown for as low as $150,000 and stand-alone houses for $280,000 .

And while Caminha is the best place to invest in Europe, another destination took the top prize for global real estate value: Mexico's Los Cabos. International Living ranked first with almost perfect scores in categories such as income potential, climate, and international appeal. Riviera Maya and Estepona in Spain, a town in the country's famous Costa del Sol region, are tied for the third place.

You can see the full ranking at internationaliving.com .