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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Limerick?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Limerick can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Limerick

Limerick is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Limerick?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Edinburgh than Limerick, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Limerick is known for its food. Edinburgh is more touristy than Limerick and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Limerick is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Edinburgh different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh 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, Edinburgh has many famous sights for visitors. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Limerick Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Limerick is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Limerick is not a theatre destination.

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

Limerick is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Limerick has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Edinburgh has something for everybody. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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 Edinburgh or Limerick Better for Music?

Edinburgh is terrific for its music scene. However, Limerick is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Limerick is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

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

Edinburgh has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Limerick?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh or Limerick Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Limerick Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is a great city for couples. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Edinburgh is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh or Limerick Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Edinburgh and Limerick.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Limerick, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a city bus service that travels around town.

Is Edinburgh or Limerick a more walkable city?

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

Edinburgh is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Edinburgh or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Edinburgh than Limerick because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Limerick?

The beautiful city of Edinburgh offers theater and nightlife. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Limerick. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Limerick has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Limerick?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Limerick. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Limerick?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Limerick. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Limerick?

Edinburgh 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.

Limerick is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, 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 Edinburgh and Limerick, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Limerick Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Limerick?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Limerick. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Limerick. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Limerick averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Edinburgh usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Limerick. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Limerick in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Limerick. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Limerick because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in October than Limerick. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. Edinburgh is much colder than Limerick in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Limerick. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Limerick in the Spring?

Both Limerick and Edinburgh during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Limerick for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Edinburgh is cooler than Limerick. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Limerick averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Limerick. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Limerick. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Limerick and Edinburgh