A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Limerick for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Antwerp or Limerick?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Limerick can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Limerick

Limerick is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Limerick?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp than Limerick, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antwerp is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Limerick is known for its impressive beauty. Limerick is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Limerick?

Antwerp
Limerick

Antwerp is a great port city for its historical sights. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Limerick is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town is famous for King John's Castle as well as St. Mary's Cathedral, and St. John's Square and Cathedral.


Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp
Limerick

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Limerick can be an enjoyable experience.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Antwerp. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Limerick is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a mix of traditional Irish restaurants and more modern international cuisine. Local specialties to try include Limerick Ham, Cahill's Whiskey Cheese, and Walnut Cheddar.

Is Antwerp or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Limerick

Antwerp is a great port city for its evening party scene. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Antwerp has something for everybody. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Limerick. It's a student town so much of the nightlife scene centers around the student population. There are lively pubs and clubs around town so it's not hard to have a fun night out.

Is Antwerp or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Limerick

Antwerp is a great port city for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Limerick?

Antwerp
Limerick

Antwerp is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Antwerp specifically to go shopping. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Limerick is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a mix of brand name chains and independent boutiques in the city center. There are several major shopping streets in town including O'Connell Street, and the pedestrian streets of Bedford Row and Cruises Street.

Is Antwerp or Limerick Better for Families?

Antwerp
Limerick

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Limerick.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Limerick offers lots of family activities. Families will enjoy visiting King John's Castle but for kids who need a break from the sightseeing, there are kid-friendly activities around town like Curraghchase Forest Park and the Peoples Park. Families should also check out the Dreamland Fun Center. Museums like Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum are also fun for the whole family.

Is Antwerp or Limerick Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Limerick

Both Antwerp and Limerick are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Limerick is a good port city for couples to visit. There are river cruises, kayaking, and nature to explore. Head to the Curraghchase Forest Park or any of the many beautiful parks around town. Couples can combine history with nature and enjoy a nice, romantic trip through Limerick.


Is Antwerp or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Limerick

Antwerp is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Limerick is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in the area so it can be hard to find other likeminded travelers.

Is Antwerp or Limerick Better for Students?

Antwerp
Limerick

Antwerp is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Limerick is a good port city to visit for students. The city has a nice student scene with plenty of areas to explore.

Is Antwerp or Limerick Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antwerp
Limerick

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Antwerp and Limerick.

You'll find some public transit in Antwerp, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

While Limerick offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a city bus service that travels around town.


Is Antwerp or Limerick a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Limerick

Antwerp is a great port city for its ease of walking around. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Antwerp is a very walkable destination. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

Limerick is somewhat walkable. There are compact and walkable parts to the city that can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antwerp or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antwerp than Limerick because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Limerick if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antwerp.


  • How many days in Antwerp or Limerick? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Limerick 1-2

One day in Antwerp or Limerick?

The port city of Antwerp offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Limerick, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antwerp or Limerick?

Antwerp is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antwerp, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Limerick, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Limerick has to offer.


Five days in Antwerp or Limerick?

Antwerp is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Limerick is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Limerick?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Limerick. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Limerick. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Antwerp?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €123, while the average daily cost in Limerick is €108. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Antwerp and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Limerick 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Limerick 98
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Limerick

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

Hotels in Antwerp


Hotels in Limerick


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


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Limerick 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274
  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $141
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Transfer from Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Luxury Car or Van: $73
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

Also for Limerick, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Limerick Private Transfer from central Limerick to Shannon: $203
  • Private Transfer between CORK & LIMERICK | Premium Vehicles: $300
  • Private Transfer between SHANNON & ADARE | Premium Vehicles: $213
  • Private Transfer between SHANNON & LIMERICK | Premium Vehicles: $136
  • Transfer - Shannon Airport to Galway City (or reverse) - Premium Sedan: $300
  • Transfer - Shannon Airport to Limerick City (or reverse) - Premium Sedan: $158

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Limerick?

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





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Antwerp 39
    Limerick 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

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

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Limerick 17

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Antwerp : $229
  • 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour: $35
  • 3-Hour Private Tour in Antwerp: $49
  • Antwerp : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $80
  • Antwerp : Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Guide: $56
  • Antwerp Bike Tours: $35
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Antwerp Private Tour From Brussels: $425
  • Antwerp Private Walking Tour: $218
  • Antwerp Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $245
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.09
  • Antwerp Shore Excursion and Bruges Private City Tour including Chocolate Tasting: $183

Tours and Activities in Limerick

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Limerick.

  • Skip the Line: Hunt Museum Ticket: $14
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on the Limerick Greenway: $16
  • Limericks Lost Whiskey Walking Tour: $19
  • Skip the Line: Bunratty Castle and Folk Park Admission Ticket: $21
  • Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Including The Wild Altanic Way: $43
  • Dingle Peninsula Day Tour from Including The Wild Altanic Way: $53
  • Ring of Kerry Day Tour from Including Killarney National Park: $53
  • Cliffs of Moher explorer day tour from Limerick. Guided.: $54
  • Guided eBike Tours on the Lough Derg Shore: $82
  • Angela's Ashes 1.5hrs Walking Tour: $142
  • Private Walking Tour of Limerick City: $142
  • Private Walking Tour of Adare: $272

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Limerick 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

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

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96


When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Limerick, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Limerick?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Limerick, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Antwerp or Limerick?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antwerp or Limerick in the Summer?

Both Limerick and Antwerp during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In the summer, Antwerp is around the same temperature as Limerick. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Limerick averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Antwerp. In the summer, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than Limerick. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Limerick in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Limerick. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Antwerp is generally around the same temperature as Limerick. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Limerick. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Limerick in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Limerick. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Limerick in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Antwerp is much colder than Limerick in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in January than Limerick. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Limerick in the Spring?

Both Limerick and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the natural beauty during these months.

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

Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Limerick. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Antwerp

Antwerp Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)