A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Limerick for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Limerick

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

Isle of Skye and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Limerick?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Isle of Skye than Limerick, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Isle of Skye is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Limerick is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Limerick and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Also, Isle of Skye is famous for The Old Man of Storr. Limerick is well known for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Isle of Skye different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Limerick?

Limerick is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Isle of Skye has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Limerick is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Limerick Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is a great island for the beach. However, Limerick is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Limerick is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Limerick Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is terrific for hiking. However, Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Limerick?

Limerick is a good destination for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Limerick. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Limerick Better for Families?

Both Isle of Skye and Limerick are notable family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Limerick. 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 Isle of Skye or Limerick Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye is a great island for couples. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Isle of Skye is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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 Isle of Skye or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye or Limerick Better for Students?

Limerick is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Limerick is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Limerick a more walkable city?

Limerick is a good destination for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

Limerick is somewhat walkable. There are compact and walkable parts to the city that can be explored on foot.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Limerick?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.

One day in Isle of Skye or Limerick?

The beautiful island of Isle of Skye offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this fun-filled city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Limerick?

Isle of Skye is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Limerick is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Limerick?

Isle of Skye is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Limerick. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Limerick?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Limerick is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 Isle of Skye and Limerick, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Limerick Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Limerick?

Limerick has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Limerick. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Limerick in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Limerick in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Limerick. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Limerick in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than Limerick. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Limerick because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Isle of Skye is cooler than Limerick. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Limerick averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Limerick during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Limerick. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Limerick in the Spring?

Both Limerick and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Limerick. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Limerick and Isle of Skye