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

Should you visit Glasgow or Limerick?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow 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.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a high energy, friendly, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Glasgow and Limerick: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Glasgow or Limerick?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Glasgow than Limerick. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Glasgow is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while Limerick attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Glasgow is famous for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also well known for Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Glasgow different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Glasgow
Limerick

Glasgow 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 Glasgow specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

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 Glasgow or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Glasgow
Limerick

Both Glasgow and Limerick offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Glasgow is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

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 Glasgow or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow
Limerick

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

Glasgow is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

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 Glasgow or Limerick Better for Music?

Glasgow
Limerick

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

Glasgow has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Limerick is not a live music destination.


Is Glasgow or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Glasgow
Limerick

Glasgow is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Glasgow has an old town worth visiting. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Limerick?

Glasgow
Limerick

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

Glasgow has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

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 Glasgow or Limerick Better for Families?

Glasgow
Limerick

Glasgow and Limerick are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Glasgow offers lots of family activities. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

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 Glasgow or Limerick Better for Couples?

Glasgow
Limerick

Glasgow and Limerick are both nice to visit as a couple.

Glasgow is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

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 Glasgow or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Glasgow
Limerick

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

Glasgow is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

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 Glasgow or Limerick Better for Students?

Glasgow
Limerick

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

Glasgow is very popular with students. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

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


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

Glasgow
Limerick

Glasgow 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 Glasgow can get you to most places easily. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

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

Is Glasgow or Limerick a more walkable city?

Glasgow
Limerick

Glasgow 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.

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored 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 Glasgow Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Limerick?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Glasgow or Limerick?

The city of Glasgow offers museums and nightlife. 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.

In Limerick, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Glasgow or Limerick?

Glasgow 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Glasgow, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Limerick, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Limerick has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Limerick?

Glasgow 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 great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Limerick?

Glasgow is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Limerick. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Limerick. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Glasgow?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Glasgow is £144, while the average daily cost in Limerick is £92. 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 Glasgow and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Glasgow £74
    Limerick £42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Glasgow £148
    Limerick £84
Compare Hotels in Glasgow and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Glasgow 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 Glasgow


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: Glasgow Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Glasgow £27
    Limerick £34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Glasgow

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

  • From Private Day Trip to Edinburgh with Transfers: $834
  • Glasgow to Inverness Direct transfer: $781
  • Airport and Glasgow Centre Private Transfer to Oban: $312
  • Executive transfer Glasgow/Edinburgh: $275
  • Glasgow to Gleneagles Luxury Car Transfer: $241
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Edinburgh: $213
  • Roundtrip Transfer Glasgow Airport(GLA) to Glenshee Ski Resort: $207
  • Glasgow to Stirling Luxury Car Transfer: $203
  • Private 1-Way/Roundtrip Transfer to Glasgow Airport: $172
  • Glasgow Airport Transfers: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Car: $169
  • Glasgow Airport to Lecht Ski Resort - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $153
  • Glasgow Airport Transfer: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Van: $145

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 Glasgow or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Glasgow 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
    Glasgow £45
    Limerick £30
Typical Food Prices in Glasgow

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Glasgow:


  • Dessert at Farmer's Market
    £1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Glasgow Walking Food Tour with EatWalk Tours: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Glasgow £22
    Limerick £15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Luss Highland Games Entrance Fee (for 2)
    £12
  • Two Bike Rental
    £34

Tours and Activities in Glasgow

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

  • 1.5hr Glasgow Necropolis Tour: The City of the Dead: $144
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour of Glasgow: $209
  • 2-Day Highlands and Loch Ness Tour from Glasgow: $260
  • 3 Hours Private City Glasgow Walking Tour: $272
  • 3-Hour Private Glasgow Essentials Tour: $284
  • Celtic Park Tour & Dine Package: $53
  • City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $23
  • Discover Glasgow's Finest - Private Walking Tour: $512
  • Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan - 2 Day Tour from Glasgow: $152
  • Executive Scottish Lowlands Tour: $1,124
  • From Glasgow, Edinburgh: Outlander Private Tour: $1,031
  • From 3-Day Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness Tour: $262

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
    Glasgow £15
    Limerick £10
Typical Alcohol Prices in Glasgow

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Glasgow:


  • Bottle of Wine
    £12
  • Ciders at Kilted Skirlie
    £3.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Glasgow

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Glasgow:

  • Clydeside Distillery Tour and Whisky Tasting: $23
  • Tennent’s Brewery Guided Tour and Free Pint: $24
  • Glengoyne Distillery Tour with Whisky & Chocolate: $37
  • Glasgow Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Sample Fine & Rare Whiskies at Glengoyne Distillery: $62
  • Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow : $70
  • The Malt Master Experience at Glengoyne Distillery: $112
  • Scottish Whisky Distillery Tour: $186
  • Guided Electric Bike Tour with a Distillery Visit: $187
  • Pints & Past: Glasgow Pub Tour: $456


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


Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Limerick?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow or Limerick in the Summer?

Both Limerick and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Limerick because of the family-friendly experiences.

Glasgow is around the same temperature as Limerick in the summer. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Glasgow usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Limerick. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Glasgow 15°C (59°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Glasgow during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In the autumn, Glasgow is cooler than Limerick. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Glasgow in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Limerick averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Limerick. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets more rain in October than Limerick. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Glasgow 10°C (49°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Limerick in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Limerick. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Limerick for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Glasgow in the winter. In January, Glasgow is generally much colder than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 3°C (38°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Limerick during winter. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Limerick. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Glasgow 3°C (38°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Limerick. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Limerick in the spring for the natural beauty.

Glasgow is cooler than Limerick in the spring. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Limerick. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in April than Limerick. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Glasgow 7°C (45°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Glasgow

Glasgow Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)