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

Should you visit Basel or Limerick?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Limerick, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Basel

Basel is a easily accessible, beautiful, and vibrant city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Basel and Limerick: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Basel or Limerick?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Basel than Limerick, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Basel is popular for its many museums and its nice old town. It is also home to The Kunstmuseum Basel. Limerick is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Basel different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Basel
Limerick

Basel is a great 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 Basel specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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 Basel or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Basel
Limerick

Foodies will find both Basel and Limerick both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Basel. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

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 Basel or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Basel
Limerick

Evening events are good in both Basel and Limerick.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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 Basel or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Basel
Limerick

Basel is a great 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 Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Limerick?

Basel
Limerick

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

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 Basel or Limerick Better for Families?

Basel
Limerick

Basel 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 Basel. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

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 Basel or Limerick Better for Couples?

Basel
Limerick

Basel and Limerick are both good to visit as a couple.

Basel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Limerick is a good 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 Basel or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Basel
Limerick

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

Basel is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

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 Basel or Limerick Better for Students?

Basel
Limerick

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

Basel is very popular with students. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

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

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

Basel
Limerick

Basel 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 Basel can get you to most places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

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


Is Basel or Limerick a more walkable city?

Basel
Limerick

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

Basel is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

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 Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Basel?

How long in Basel or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Basel or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Basel 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 Basel, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

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

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


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

One day in Basel or Limerick?

The beautiful city of Basel 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Basel or Limerick?

Basel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this 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 Basel, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Limerick. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Basel or Limerick?

Basel is a popular choice for travelers. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Limerick. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Basel or Limerick?

Basel is a great place to explore. 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 city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Limerick. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Basel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Basel is $236, while the average daily cost in Limerick is $115. 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 Basel and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Basel $143
    Limerick $52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Basel $286
    Limerick $104
Compare Hotels in Basel and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Basel 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 Basel


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: Basel Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Basel $45
    Limerick $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Basel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Basel:

  • Private Transfer: Basel Airport BSL to Zurich in Luxury Van: $261
  • Private Transfer from Basel to Zurich with 3h Sightseeing Stops: $251
  • Private transfer from Basel to Strasbourg with a local driver: $233
  • Private Transfer From Basel To Bern With a 2 Hour Stop in Olten: $224
  • Private Direct Transfer from Basel to Zurich: $205
  • Private One-way Transfer From Basel to Zurich, English Speaking Driver: $186
  • Private direct transfer from Basel to Lucerne with a local driver: $177
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Car: $157
  • Arrival Private Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • Basel Airport Transfer: Basel to EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) in Business Car: $108
  • ONE WAY: Basel Train Station (ZDH) to / from Basel transfer: $88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Basel or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Basel 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
    Basel $61
    Limerick $37

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Basel $37
    Limerick $19

Tours and Activities in Basel

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

  • Alpine Majesty: Basel to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $821
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Basel: $650
  • Basel (Kleinbasel) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Basel : Old Town Walking Tour: $107
  • Basel : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $82
  • Basel Adventure Tour - The city quiz: $37
  • Basel City Sightseeing Bus Tour: $27
  • Basel City: Private guided Segway Tour: $196
  • Basel Family Adventure: Exploring Historic & Artistic Gems: $543
  • Basel Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Basel History Tour for Groups: $328
  • Basel Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $60

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
    Basel $33
    Limerick $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Basel

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

  • Pub Crawl Meet People and Hidden Bars and Clubs: $33
  • Pinot Noir & Pinot Wine Tour to Baden-Württemberg: $279
  • Fantastic, full day, private wine tour to Alsace!: $285
  • Half Day Private Cheese & Wine Tasting in Vineyard in Basel: $289


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Basel and Limerick, we can see that Basel 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel 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 Basel Expensive? and Is Limerick Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Basel or Limerick?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel 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 Basel or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Basel as well as Limerick. Most visitors come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Limerick because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Basel is a little warmer than Limerick. Typically, the summer temperatures in Basel in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Limerick averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Basel this time of the year. In the summer, Basel often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in July than Limerick. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Basel 21°C (70°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Basel or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Basel because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In October, Basel is generally a little warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 13°C (56°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Basel usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during autumn. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Basel usually receives less rain than Limerick. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Basel 13°C (56°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Basel or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Basel during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Limerick for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Basel in the winter. Basel is much colder than Limerick in the winter. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Basel often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets less rain in January than Limerick. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Basel 3°C (37°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Basel or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Limerick. Many travelers come to Basel for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Limerick in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Basel is a little warmer than Limerick. Typically, the spring temperatures in Basel in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Limerick averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Basel usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick during spring. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Basel usually receives more rain than Limerick. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Basel 12°C (53°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Basel

Basel Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)