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

Should you visit Limerick or Bratislava?

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 Bratislava 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.

Bratislava

Bratislava is a historical, under-rated, and genuine city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Limerick and Bratislava: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Limerick or Bratislava?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bratislava than Limerick. Bratislava is bigger than Limerick, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Limerick is more touristy than Bratislava and is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities. Bratislava is well known for its local beer, charming old town, and scenic mountain setting. Also, Bratislava is famous for The Bratislava Castle.

How is Limerick different from Bratislava?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bratislava 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 Bratislava?

Limerick
Bratislava

Bratislava 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 Bratislava specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Despite its small size, the city is packed with interesting sights and attractions. A highlight of a visit is exploring the Bratislava Castle. Other notable sights include Michael's Gate, the Slovak National Theatre, Grassalkovich Palace, and Primate's Palace & Hall of Mirrors.

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 Bratislava? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Limerick
Bratislava

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Limerick and Bratislava.

Limerick is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Bratislava offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Slovakian food is hearty and uses a few staple ingredients like cheese and dumplings. The dishes are warm and filling on a cool day, so it's nice to step into a cozy restaurant and rest after a day of exploring. Popular local dishes include bryndzové halušky (sheep's cheese gnocchi), kapustnica (cabbage soup), and goulash.

Is Limerick or Bratislava Better for Nightlife?

Limerick
Bratislava

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

The nightlife in Bratislava has something for everybody. The city has grown in popularity as a center for nightlife with many people visiting from nearby Vienna. There are a growing number of stag and hen parties around town, but you'll also find sophisticated wine bars and a refined social scene. Many of the city's clubs are found in old town around Michalská, Obchodná and Ventúrska streets as well as Hviezdoslavovo and SNP squares.

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 Bratislava Better for its Old Town?

Limerick
Bratislava

Bratislava 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 Bratislava. The old town is filled with diverse architecture as well as traditional and upscale restaurants.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Limerick or Bratislava?

Limerick
Bratislava

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

Limerick has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Bratislava is a great destination for shopping. Shopping has come to life here, with three large shopping malls and many shopping streets where you'll find local boutiques. The city has both global brands as well as more traditional shops where you can buy local items. Popular things to purchase while you're in town include traditional clothing, wooden crosses, corn husk dolls, and local alcohol such as slivovica.

Is Limerick or Bratislava Better for Families?

Limerick
Bratislava

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

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.

Bratislava is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the lack of tourist crowds when compared to other European cities, even during school holidays. You can explore the city and enjoy a laid back vibe without the chaos of navigating through tour groups and large crowds. There's also a nice old town as well as gardens, playgrounds, palaces, and the Bratislava Castle.

Is Limerick or Bratislava Better for Couples?

Limerick
Bratislava

Both Limerick and Bratislava 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.

Bratislava is a nice destination for couples. Couples that enjoy stepping away from tourist crowds will appreciate this relaxed city. There is the beautiful Janko Kráľ Park as well as the Bratislava Castle that you can explore. It's enjoyable to simply walk around the old town and soak up the atmosphere as well. There are also many great restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy a night out.


Is Limerick or Bratislava Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Limerick
Bratislava

Bratislava is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bratislava. The city offers an affordable and unique alternative to some of the larger and well known cities that are nearby. There are a couple of hostels and some affordable hotels that will help you keep your expenses down.

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 Bratislava Better for Students?

Limerick
Bratislava

Limerick is a popular place for students. However, Bratislava is not popular with students.

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

Bratislava is not popular with students.

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

Limerick
Bratislava

Bratislava 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 Bratislava can get you to most places easily. There are trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

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


Is Limerick or Bratislava a more walkable city?

Limerick
Bratislava

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

Bratislava is a very easy city to get around on foot. One of the best ways to experience the city is to walk around. The old town is also a large pedestrian zone.

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 Limerick Worth Visiting? and Is Bratislava Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bratislava or Limerick?

How long in Limerick or Bratislava?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Limerick and Bratislava. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bratislava than in Limerick. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Limerick, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bratislava.

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

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

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


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

One day in Limerick or Bratislava?

With museums and nightlife around the fun-filled 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.

The beautiful city of Bratislava 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.

A weekend in Limerick or Bratislava?

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.

Bratislava 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 Bratislava, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Limerick or Bratislava?

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.

Bratislava 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.

A week in Limerick or Bratislava?

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.

Bratislava 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 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Slovakia, and The Best River Cruises in Slovakia.


Which place is cheaper, Bratislava or Limerick?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Limerick is €108, while the average daily cost in Bratislava is €122. 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 Limerick and Bratislava in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Limerick or Bratislava? 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 Limerick


Hotels in Bratislava


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: Limerick Hotel Prices and Bratislava Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Limerick 40
    Bratislava 26

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bratislava

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bratislava:

  • Bratislava-Budapest One-Way Sightseeing Transfer: $295
  • Private transfer from Bratislava to Vienna: $263
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest with 2h of Sightseeing: $202
  • Bratislava - Budapest Transfer: $199
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava City to Vienna City: $98
  • Bratislava Airport BTS to Piestany Round Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bratislava to Vienna City Center: $87
  • Bratislava Airport to Bojnice Resorts - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava Airport to Turčianske Teplice Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer Service: $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Limerick or Bratislava?

Prices for flights to both Bratislava and Limerick 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
    Limerick 35
    Bratislava 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bratislava

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

  • Local Beer & Food Tour: $142
  • Bratislava Traditional Food Tour: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Limerick 17
    Bratislava 30

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

Tours and Activities in Bratislava

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

  • Bratislava Premium Private Walking Tour, 4 hours: $224
  • Magic Christmas tour in Komarno: $234
  • Banska Stiavnica from Bratislava, UNESCO Day Tour: $229
  • Beautiful Bratislava Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Beer Factory Tour with Beer Tasting in Banska Bystrica: $158
  • Bratislava - Bike Tour: $53
  • Bratislava - Grand City Tour: $84
  • Bratislava Big Castle Tour by Presporacik: $18
  • Bratislava Brunch Tour: $93
  • Bratislava Card with Public Transport Option & Walking Tour: $25
  • Bratislava Castle: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Bratislava City Private Walking Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Limerick 12
    Bratislava 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Bratislava

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bratislava:

  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier in Bratislava: $14
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier: $15
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $16
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $21
  • Bratislava 3-Hour Wine Tasting: $104
  • Devin Castle Tour with Currant Wine Tasting: $144
  • Devin Castle Tour with Wine Tasting: $158
  • Bratislava Food and Wine Tour: $180
  • Little Carpathian Wine Tour: $201
  • 6-Hour Carpathian Wine Tour and Tasting: $209


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


Which is Bigger, Limerick or Bratislava?

Bratislava has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Limerick and Bratislava, 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 Bratislava?

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 Bratislava in the Summer?

Both Bratislava and Limerick during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bratislava because of the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Bratislava, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Bratislava. Limerick gets 142 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 255 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets less rain in July than Bratislava. Limerick gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Limerick 16°C (60°F) 
    Bratislava 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Bratislava in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Limerick and Bratislava. The autumn months attract visitors to Limerick because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bratislava this time of year.

In October, Limerick is generally cooler than Bratislava. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 11°C (52°F), and Bratislava fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Bratislava during autumn. Limerick gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 140 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Limerick usually receives more rain than Bratislava. Limerick gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Limerick or Bratislava in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Limerick as well as Bratislava. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Limerick this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bratislava for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bratislava. Limerick is much warmer than Bratislava in the winter. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Bratislava fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Bratislava. Limerick gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 65 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in January than Bratislava. Limerick gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Limerick 6°C (42°F) 
    Bratislava 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Bratislava in the Spring?

Both Bratislava and Limerick are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Limerick for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bratislava in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Bratislava. Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Bratislava during spring. Limerick gets 148 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Limerick 9°C (48°F) 
    Bratislava 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bratislava and Limerick

Limerick Bratislava
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)