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

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a quaint, energetic, and lively town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

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.

Heidelberg and Limerick: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Limerick?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heidelberg than Limerick. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Heidelberg is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Limerick attracts visitors for its museums. Heidelberg is more touristy than Limerick and is known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. It is also well known for The Heidelberg Castle. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Heidelberg different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heidelberg
Limerick

Limerick is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Limerick. The town is famous for King John's Castle as well as St. Mary's Cathedral, and St. John's Square and Cathedral.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Heidelberg
Limerick

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

Heidelberg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Heidelberg or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg
Limerick

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

The nightlife in Heidelberg has something for everybody. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg
Limerick

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

Heidelberg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Limerick?

Heidelberg
Limerick

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

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

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 Heidelberg or Limerick Better for Families?

Heidelberg
Limerick

Both Heidelberg and Limerick are nice family-friendly destinations.

Heidelberg offers lots of family activities. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

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 Heidelberg or Limerick Better for Couples?

Heidelberg
Limerick

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

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

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 Heidelberg or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg
Limerick

Heidelberg is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places 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 Heidelberg or Limerick Better for Students?

Heidelberg
Limerick

For students, both Heidelberg and Limerick are nice places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

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

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

Heidelberg
Limerick

Heidelberg is a great town 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 Heidelberg can get you to most places easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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


Is Heidelberg or Limerick a more walkable city?

Heidelberg
Limerick

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

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly 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 Heidelberg Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Limerick?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Heidelberg or Limerick?

The beautiful town of Heidelberg offers nightlife and food. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy city of Limerick, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Limerick, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Limerick?

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

With nightlife and food around the destination of Limerick, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Heidelberg or Limerick?

Heidelberg 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Limerick?

Heidelberg 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 town offers something for everyone.

Limerick is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Heidelberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Heidelberg is €142, 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 Heidelberg and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heidelberg 93
    Limerick 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heidelberg 186
    Limerick 98
Compare Hotels in Heidelberg and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heidelberg 17
    Limerick 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23

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 Heidelberg or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37
    Limerick 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heidelberg 11
    Limerick 17

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
  • Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $71
  • Amazing Schwetzingen Garden Tour: $238
  • Beer and Old Town Tour: $98
  • Bicycle Tour from Heidelberg to quaint Ladenburg.: $120
  • Culinary city tour in Heidelberg with delicious samples: $43
  • E.Bike Tours around Heidelberg: $153
  • Evening Heidelberg tour with historical night watchman: $17
  • Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $64
  • Fascinating Heidelberg Sightseeing Walking Tour: $217
  • Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg : $131
  • Guided Tour of Student Rabble, Whore Pack and the French War: $373

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
    Heidelberg 17
    Limerick 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


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


Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Limerick?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Limerick in the Summer?

Both Limerick and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Limerick in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Heidelberg is a little warmer than Limerick in the summer. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. Heidelberg usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Limerick. Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Heidelberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heidelberg 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.

In the autumn, Heidelberg is around the same temperature as Limerick. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heidelberg in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Limerick averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Heidelberg often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in October than Limerick. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Limerick in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Limerick. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for 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.

Heidelberg can be very cold during winter. In January, Heidelberg is generally much colder than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 3°C (37°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Limerick during winter. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Limerick. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Heidelberg or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Limerick. The spring months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

Heidelberg is a little warmer than Limerick in the spring. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Heidelberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Limerick. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Heidelberg

Heidelberg Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)