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

Should you visit Athens or Limerick?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Limerick. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a energetic, historic, and ancient city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Limerick

Limerick is a fun-filled, historic, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Limerick?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens than Limerick. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Athens is more touristy than Limerick and is known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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 Athens or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Athens has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Limerick offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Athens or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Athens is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Athens is a must-see party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Athens is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Limerick?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Limerick both offer plenty of nice spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

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 Athens or Limerick Better for Families?

Athens is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Limerick is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Athens or Limerick Better for Couples?

Athens and Limerick both nice destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Limerick is a nice destination for couples. 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 Athens or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

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 Athens or Limerick Better for Students?

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

Athens is very popular with students. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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

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

Athens is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Athens can get you to most places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Limerick has a few public transit options. There's a city bus service that travels around town.

Is Athens or Limerick a more walkable city?

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

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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 Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Athens?

How long in Athens or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Limerick because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

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

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

One day in Athens or Limerick?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Limerick. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Limerick?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Limerick is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Limerick?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Limerick. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Limerick?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Limerick. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Limerick, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Limerick much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Limerick would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Limerick and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Limerick.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Limerick?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Limerick?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Limerick in the Summer?

Both Limerick and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Limerick in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Athens is much warmer than Limerick in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Limerick. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Athens is much warmer than Limerick. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Limerick averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Limerick. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Limerick in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Limerick. Most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Limerick because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Athens is generally much warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Limerick. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Limerick. The spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

Athens is much warmer than Limerick in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Limerick. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Limerick and Athens