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

Should you visit Limerick or Barcelona?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Limerick and Barcelona can help you decide which place is right for you.

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.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a friendly, high energy, and youthful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Limerick and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Limerick or Barcelona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Limerick. Barcelona is bigger than Limerick, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is more touristy than Limerick and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Limerick is well known for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Limerick different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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 Limerick or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

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 Limerick or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

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

Barcelona is a must-see party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

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 Limerick or Barcelona Better for Music?

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

Barcelona has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Limerick is not a live music destination.

Is Limerick or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is very good for the beach. However, Limerick is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Limerick is not a beach destination.

Is Limerick or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Limerick or Barcelona?

Barcelona is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Barcelona specifically to go shopping. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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 Limerick or Barcelona Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Limerick or Barcelona.

Limerick offers lots of family activities. 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.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Limerick or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Both Limerick and Barcelona are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Limerick is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Barcelona is a nice destination for couples. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Limerick or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Barcelona, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

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 Limerick or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

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

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona can get you to most places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

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

Is Limerick or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Limerick is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Limerick Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Limerick?

How long in Limerick or Barcelona?

Both Limerick and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Limerick. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Limerick, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

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

One day in Limerick or Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Limerick or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy 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.

Barcelona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Limerick or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic 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.

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

A week in Limerick or Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Limerick or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Limerick and Barcelona, 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 Limerick or Barcelona?

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 Limerick or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Limerick during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Limerick is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Limerick in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Limerick gets 142 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Limerick gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Limerick or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Limerick and Barcelona. Many visitors come to Limerick in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Limerick is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 11°C (52°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Limerick gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Limerick usually receives around the same amount of rain as Barcelona. Limerick gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Limerick or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Limerick as well as Barcelona. Most visitors come to Limerick for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Limerick is much colder than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Limerick gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in January than Barcelona. Limerick gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Limerick or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Limerick are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Limerick because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In the spring, Limerick is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Limerick in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Limerick gets 148 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Limerick usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Limerick gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Limerick