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

Should you visit Bonn or Limerick?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Limerick? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bonn

Bonn is a outdoorsy, lively, and cultural city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Limerick

Limerick is a historic, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bonn or Limerick?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bonn than Limerick. Bonn is bigger than Limerick, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bonn is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Limerick is more popular for its impressive beauty. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. Also, Bonn is famous for The Bonn Minster. Limerick is well known for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Bonn different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bonn
Limerick

Bonn 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 Bonn specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

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 Bonn or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bonn
Limerick

Both Bonn and Limerick offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bonn. Like much of the food in Germany, you'll find local dishes are hearty and filling. Potatoes and meats are popular ingredients, as are milk, butter, and vegetables. For local flavors try the Rhenish Sauerbraten (veal stew), Reibekuchen (German pancakes), or Christmas Sausages.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Limerick. 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 Bonn or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Limerick

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Bonn and Limerick.

If you're looking for night time activities Bonn has a few options to choose from. There are bars and nightclubs around town but even more popular are the cultural events that the city hosts. If nightlife is important to you, try to visit during one of the festivals 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 Bonn or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Limerick

Bonn 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 Bonn. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Limerick?

Bonn
Limerick

Bonn 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 Bonn. A mix of local shops and major chains make shopping fun and easy. Whether you're interested in souvenir gifts or a new outfit, there are countless stores 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 Bonn or Limerick Better for Families?

Bonn
Limerick

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

Bonn is one of the most popular family destinations. Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

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 Bonn or Limerick Better for Couples?

Bonn
Limerick

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Limerick make for a notable place to visit.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. Churches, architecture, and botanical gardens all make this a great couples destination. You can take a cruise down the Rhein or enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants.

Limerick makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Bonn or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Limerick

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

Bonn is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers skip this town, so its a good option for travelers who want to get off the beaten backpacker trail. There are affordable hotels and hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can pick up something cheap to eat.

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 Bonn or Limerick Better for Students?

Bonn
Limerick

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

Bonn is very popular with students. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

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

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

Bonn
Limerick

Bonn 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 Bonn can get you to most places easily. There is a light rail system that includes 9 lines and 64 stations. There are also buses around town. Bonn is connected to the region by convenient commuter trains so it's possible to visit as a day trip.

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


Is Bonn or Limerick a more walkable city?

Bonn
Limerick

Bonn 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.

Bonn is a very walkable destination. The compact old town is easy to explore 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 Bonn Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Limerick?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Bonn or Limerick?

The city of Bonn 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Limerick. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bonn or Limerick?

Bonn 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 Bonn, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Limerick is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Bonn or Limerick?

Bonn 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Limerick. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Limerick?

Bonn 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.

The outdoorsy city of Limerick offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Bonn?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bonn is €154, 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 Bonn and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Limerick 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Limerick 98
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Bonn 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 Bonn


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: Bonn Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Limerick 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bonn

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

  • Bonn hotels Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) - Departure Private Transfer: $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Bonn 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
    Bonn 49
    Limerick 35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Limerick 17

Tours and Activities in Bonn

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

  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $20
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $120
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $51
  • Bonn Crime-Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bonn Musikerviertel Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bonn Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $222
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $11
  • Bonn Walking Tour (In the footsteps of Ludwig Van Beethoven): $321
  • Bonn and Bad Godesberg hop-on hop-off tour in a double-decker bus: $22
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $20

Tours and Activities in Limerick

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Limerick 12


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


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Limerick?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Bonn 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 Bonn 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 Bonn or Limerick in the Summer?

Both Limerick and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bonn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bonn is generally a little warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 19°C (66°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Bonn usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bonn usually receives more rain than Limerick. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Bonn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Limerick in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Bonn is around the same temperature as Limerick in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Bonn often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in October than Limerick. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Limerick in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Limerick. Many visitors come to Bonn in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bonn is much colder than Limerick. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bonn in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Limerick averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Limerick during winter. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bonn usually receives less rain than Limerick. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Bonn or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Limerick. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Limerick because of the natural beauty.

In April, Bonn is generally a little warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 10°C (50°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Bonn often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in April than Limerick. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Bonn

Bonn Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)