Things To Do
in Limerick
Limerick is a historic city set on the River Shannon in Ireland's midwest. It blends a well-preserved medieval core with a lively, friendly vibe driven by students and locals. Landmarks like King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral, and the Milk Market anchor daily life and culture.
Outside the city center, ancient landscapes and rolling countryside invite hiking, boating, and rural village visits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to King John's Castle, where you can immerse yourself in the medieval history of Limerick. Wander through the castle grounds and enjoy panoramic views of the River Shannon. Don't forget to stop by the nearby Milk Market for a delicious breakfast of local treats.
After lunch, head to the Hunt Museum, home to an impressive collection of art and antiquities. Take your time exploring the exhibits that date from 2000 BC to the 20th century. Consider participating in a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating stories behind the artifacts.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the River Shannon, enjoying the tranquil views and the lively atmosphere. For dinner, treat yourself to traditional Irish cuisine at one of the cozy pubs in the historic quarter. Cap off the evening with live music at a local venue, where you can experience the vibrant culture of Limerick.
Begin your day at the Limerick City Gallery of Art, where you can admire contemporary Irish art and exhibitions. Enjoy the serene surroundings of the gallery's gardens, which provide a perfect backdrop for a morning walk. Grab a coffee at the gallery café before continuing your exploration.
Next, visit the Frank McCourt Museum, dedicated to the life and works of the Pulitzer Prize-winning author. The museum is located in the school he attended and offers engaging insights into his childhood and the city’s history. Spend some time reflecting on McCourt's journey through interactive displays and memorabilia.
For dinner, head to a charming restaurant in the city center that specializes in locally sourced ingredients. After your meal, take a guided ghost tour to discover the haunted history of Limerick, filled with eerie tales and local legends. This spooky adventure will surely provide a memorable end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🍺Pint of beer in a pub | $5-7 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $6-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with rich medieval heritage
- Friendly locals and a dynamic pub and food scene
- Beautiful river setting with easy day trips to Bunratty and Lough Gur
- Strong cultural events and live music throughout the year
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- Some tourist sites are seasonal or require a short drive
- City traffic can be busy during event days
- Limited high-end dining options compared to Dublin or Cork
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Sláinte" - Cheers
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Cá bhfuil an t-óstán?" - Where is the hotel?
Places to Visit in Limerick
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic riverside fortress with towers and panoramic views over the Shannon.
Iconic iron bridge offering reflections and sunset shots along the river.
Colorful market stalls and lively morning scenes ideal for candid and street photography.
Gothic architecture with intricate stonework and stained glass.
Historic landmark with views across the river and hills beyond.
Food in Limerick
Limerick Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato pancake commonly served fried or as part of a hearty breakfast or pub plate.
Must-Try!
A warming lamb or beef stew with potatoes, carrots, and herbs.
A comforting dish of sausages, bacon, onions, and potatoes cooked together.
Creamy soup featuring fresh local seafood, often with rustic bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekend hub of local producers, baked goods, coffee, and prepared foods along the River Shannon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Irish people queue patiently; always join the end and wait your turn.
A friendly hello and a handshake are common in casual settings; Slán for goodbye.
English is used everywhere; some people may enjoy a few words in Gaeilge (Irish) like Dia duit or Sláinte.
Safety
Tipping in Limerick
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charges are not included, a 10–15% tip is customary in restaurants; pubs rarely add gratuity.
Most places accept card payments and contactless; cash is still widely accepted. Apple Pay/Google Pay is common in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, outdoor dining, and river activities; occasional showers—pack a light rain jacket.
Mild days and colorful foliage; harvest markets and fewer crowds.
Cool, damp, and often windy; festive lights in December and shorter days.
Flowers bloom and trails reopen; comfortable walking weather with regular showers.
Limerick at Night
Hiking in Limerick
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mature forest trails with options for easy to moderate hikes and mountain biking.
High ridge hikes with expansive views and a range of trail lengths.
Scenic lakeside walks around a rich archaeological landscape with gentle paths.
Airports
How to reach Limerick by plane.
Closest international airport, about a 20-40 minute drive to Limerick depending on traffic.
Regional airport about 2 hours by road; offers broader European connections.
Major international hub about 2.5–3 hours by train or car; convenient for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizeable student population from the University of Limerick and nearby institutes adds energy and nightlife.
Longstanding residents and growing mid-career families in the suburbs.
Visitors drawn to the Shannon, Lough Gur, and the city’s historic core.
A diverse community contributing to cultural events and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ireland's ancient Gaelic game; Limerick hosts teams and major matches in the county.
Popular at local clubs and community games; many fans attend weekend fixtures.
Nearby Munster rugby region; match days attract large crowds and lively atmosphere.
Several clubs around Limerick offer scenic courses and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Limerick.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common; most places can adapt dishes or offer veggie mains and sides.