A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Limerick vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Limerick or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Limerick

Limerick is a fun-filled, historic, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Limerick and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Limerick or Cairngorms National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Limerick. Although Limerick and Cairngorms National Park are popular destinations, Limerick has more sights and attractions for tourists. Limerick is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Cairngorms National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Limerick and is known for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities. It is also well known for King John's Castle.

How is Limerick different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Limerick is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Limerick or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Limerick and Cairngorms National Park.

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.

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Limerick or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Limerick is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Limerick or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Limerick is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Limerick or Cairngorms National Park?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Limerick is very good for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Limerick or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cairngorms National Park. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

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 Limerick or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a great national park for couples. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Cairngorms National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

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 Limerick or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

Cairngorms National Park is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Limerick is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

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

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

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

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Limerick is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park 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 generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.


Is Limerick or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Limerick
Cairngorms National Park

Limerick is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Limerick Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Limerick?

How long in Limerick or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Limerick or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Limerick because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Limerick, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Limerick than Cairngorms National Park 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 Limerick.


  • How many days in Limerick or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Limerick 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Limerick or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the outdoorsy city of Limerick, there's plenty to do. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The beautiful national park of Cairngorms National Park 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.

A weekend in Limerick or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the historic destination of Limerick, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy city of Limerick. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cairngorms National Park, 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Limerick is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park is a great place to explore. 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 national park 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 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Limerick 49
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Limerick 98
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Limerick and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Limerick or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Limerick 40
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

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

  • Transfer - Shannon Airport to Limerick City (or reverse) - Premium Sedan: $158
  • Transfer - Shannon Airport to Galway City (or reverse) - Premium Sedan: $300
  • Private Transfer between SHANNON & LIMERICK | Premium Vehicles: $136
  • Private Transfer between SHANNON & ADARE | Premium Vehicles: $213
  • Private Transfer between CORK & LIMERICK | Premium Vehicles: $300
  • Limerick Private Transfer from central Limerick to Shannon: $203

Is it cheaper to fly into Limerick or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park 35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Limerick 17
    Cairngorms National Park 31

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

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222
  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Limerick 12
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83


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



When is the best time to visit Limerick or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Limerick or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Limerick and Cairngorms National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Limerick because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

Limerick is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Limerick usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park during summer. Limerick gets 142 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Limerick usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cairngorms National Park. Limerick gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Limerick 16°C (60°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Limerick as well as Cairngorms National Park. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Limerick this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Limerick is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Limerick in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Limerick often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park. Limerick gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in October than Cairngorms National Park. Limerick gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Limerick 11°C (52°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Limerick are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Limerick for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Cairngorms National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Limerick is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 6°C (42°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Limerick usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during winter. Limerick gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Limerick usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Limerick gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Limerick 6°C (42°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Limerick during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Limerick in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

Limerick is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Limerick often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Limerick gets 148 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in April than Cairngorms National Park. Limerick gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Limerick 9°C (48°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Limerick

Limerick Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


Related Articles for Limerick
Related Articles for Cairngorms National Park