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

Should you visit Ghent 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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ghent 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
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Ghent or Limerick?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ghent than Limerick. Ghent is bigger than Limerick, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Also, Ghent is famous for The Fortress of Gravensteen. Limerick is well known for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Ghent different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ghent
Limerick

Ghent 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 Ghent specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ghent
Limerick

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

Ghent has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Ghent
Limerick

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

Ghent is a must-see party destination. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Ghent
Limerick

Ghent 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 Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Limerick?

Ghent
Limerick

Ghent 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 Ghent. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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 Ghent or Limerick Better for Families?

Ghent
Limerick

Both Ghent and Limerick are notable family-friendly destinations.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Limerick is a family-friendly city. 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 Ghent or Limerick Better for Couples?

Ghent
Limerick

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

Ghent is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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 Ghent or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ghent
Limerick

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

Ghent is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

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 Ghent or Limerick Better for Students?

Ghent
Limerick

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

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

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

Ghent
Limerick

Ghent is terrific 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 thorough and effecient public transit system of Ghent can take you anywhere. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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


Is Ghent or Limerick a more walkable city?

Ghent
Limerick

Ghent 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.

Ghent is a very walkable destination. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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 Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Limerick?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Ghent or Limerick?

The beautiful city of Ghent 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 fun-filled 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 Ghent or Limerick?

Ghent 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 Ghent, 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 Ghent or Limerick?

Ghent is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 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 Ghent or Limerick?

Ghent is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun-filled 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Ghent?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ghent is €118, 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 Ghent and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ghent 72
    Limerick 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ghent 144
    Limerick 98
Compare Hotels in Ghent and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Ghent 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 Ghent


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: Ghent Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ghent 19
    Limerick 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $233
  • Ghent <-> Amsterdam Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 Seats): $229
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $166
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Business Car: $147
  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63

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 Ghent or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Ghent 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
    Ghent 35
    Limerick 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

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

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
  • Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ghent 8.64
    Limerick 17

Tours and Activities in Ghent

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

  • Bicycle tour in historic Ghent: $49
  • Christmas Experience in Ghent - Walking Tour: $491
  • Discover Ghent with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $22
  • Experience Christmas in Mons - Walking Tour: $247
  • Exquisite Sites of Ghent - Family Tour: $187
  • Exquisite Sites of Ghent - Family Tour: $384
  • From Brussels: Private Tour of Bruges, Ghent and Flanders: $620
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Ghent Beer Guided Walking Tour: $49
  • Ghent Beer and Sightseeing Adventure: $97
  • Ghent Bike Tour Off-the-beaten-track: $52
  • Ghent City Highlights Walking Tour with Light Meal: $75

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
    Ghent 18
    Limerick 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $245


When comparing the travel costs between Ghent and Limerick, we can see that Ghent 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 Ghent Expensive? and Is Limerick Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ghent or Limerick?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Limerick. Many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Limerick in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Ghent is generally around the same temperature as Limerick. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 17°C (63°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ghent this time of the year. In the summer, Ghent often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in July than Limerick. Ghent 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
    Ghent 17°C (63°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Ghent is around the same temperature as Limerick in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

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

In October, Ghent usually receives less rain than Limerick. Ghent 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
    Ghent 12°C (54°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Ghent during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Limerick because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ghent can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Ghent is much colder than Limerick. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ghent in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Limerick averages at about 6°C (42°F).

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

Ghent usually gets less rain in January than Limerick. Ghent 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
    Ghent 3°C (38°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Limerick. The spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In April, Ghent is generally around the same temperature as Limerick. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 8°C (47°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

In April, Ghent usually receives less rain than Limerick. Ghent 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
    Ghent 8°C (47°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Ghent

Ghent 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)