A Travel Price Comparison for Ireland Limerick vs. Connemara for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Limerick or Connemara?

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 Connemara 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Connemara

Connemara is a dramatic, breathtaking, and scenic region. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Limerick and Connemara: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Limerick or Connemara?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Connemara. Although Limerick and Connemara are popular destinations, Connemara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Connemara is very popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Limerick attracts visitors for its nightlife and shopping. Limerick is more touristy than Connemara and is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities. Connemara is famous for its bog-filled landscape and its hidden coves. It is also well known for Connemara National Park.

How is Limerick different from Connemara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Limerick
Connemara

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Connemara and Limerick.

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.

Connemara is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most people visit the region for the natural beauty, you will also find Kylemore Abbey, Ballynahinch Castle, and Clifden Castle nearby.


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

Limerick
Connemara

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

Connemara has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The area has been influenced by the improving food scene in nearby regions. You'll find everything from fine dining restaurants to food trucks that use local ingredients and recipes. The area has no shortage of seafood, shellfish, and even Connemara lamb.

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 Connemara Better for Nightlife?

Limerick
Connemara

Limerick is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Connemara is not a good region for nightlife.

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.

Connemara doesn't offer many options. You'll find some bars in the area but most people visit for the natural beauty, not the nightlife scene.

Is Limerick or Connemara Better for Beaches?

Limerick
Connemara

Connemara is a great region for the beach. However, Limerick is not a beach destination.

Connemara is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find wide stretches of sandy beach as well as hidden coves that offer a peaceful retreat. Some of the best beaches in the area include Dog’s Bay Beach, Trá an Dóilín, and Glassilaun Beach.

Limerick is not a beach destination.


Is Limerick or Connemara Better for Hiking?

Limerick
Connemara

Connemara is terrific for hiking. However, Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Connemara specifically for its hiking. The landscape is considered to be some of the most beautiful in all of Ireland and there are many walks and hikes that let you experience it. Some of the best hikes are The Cong and Clonbur Forest Trail, the Claddaghduff Quay to Omey Island Walk, and Mount Gable Walk.

Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Limerick or Connemara?

Limerick
Connemara

Limerick is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Connemara is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Limerick to go 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.

Connemara is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Limerick or Connemara Better for Families?

Limerick
Connemara

Limerick is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Connemara is not a good region for its kid-friendly 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.

Connemara is not always a place people visit with their families. There are plenty of places to explore outdoors such as Connemara National Park as well as the nearby beaches. You'll also find several playgrounds in the area.


Is Limerick or Connemara Better for Couples?

Limerick
Connemara

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

Connemara is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. You'll find romantic hotels and beautiful walks through hidden coves and dramatic countryside. Couples will enjoy exploring castles and getting lost in the beauty.

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 Connemara Better for Students?

Limerick
Connemara

Limerick is a popular place for students. However, Connemara 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.

Connemara is not popular with students.

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

Limerick
Connemara

Limerick is a popular place for its public transit. However, Connemara is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Connemara. There are a few buses in the area but you really need a private vehicle to get around to most places.


Is Limerick or Connemara a more walkable city?

Limerick
Connemara

Limerick is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Connemara is not a good region for its walkability.

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

Connemara is not a very walkable city. You really need a vehicle to experience everything that the region has to offer.

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

Should I spend more time in Connemara or Limerick?

How long in Limerick or Connemara?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Limerick than Connemara 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 Connemara? Ideal Length of Stay
    Limerick 1-2 
    Connemara 2-3

One day in Limerick or Connemara?

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.

The beautiful region of Connemara offers museums and 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 Connemara?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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.

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


Five days in Limerick or Connemara?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy 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.

Connemara is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Connemara?

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.

Connemara 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 region 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Connemara 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 Connemara is €118. 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 Connemara in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Limerick 49
    Connemara 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Limerick 98
    Connemara 106
Compare Hotels in Limerick and Connemara

Looking for a hotel in Limerick or Connemara? 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 Connemara


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Limerick 40
    Connemara 41

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Limerick or Connemara?

Prices for flights to both Connemara 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
    Connemara 37

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Limerick 17
    Connemara 26

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Limerick 12
    Connemara 13


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



When is the best time to visit Limerick or Connemara?

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 Connemara in the Summer?

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

Limerick is around the same temperature as Connemara in the summer. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Connemara fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Limerick often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Connemara. Limerick gets 142 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Connemara receives 142 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Connemara. Limerick gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Limerick 16°C (60°F) 
    Connemara 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Connemara in the Autumn?

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

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

Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Connemara during autumn. Limerick gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Connemara receives 96 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Connemara receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Limerick usually receives less rain than Connemara. Limerick gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Limerick 11°C (52°F) 
    Connemara 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Connemara in the Winter?

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

In January, Limerick is generally around the same temperature as Connemara. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 6°C (42°F), and Connemara fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Connemara. Limerick gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Connemara receives 59 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Connemara. Limerick usually gets less rain in January than Connemara. Limerick gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Limerick 6°C (42°F) 
    Connemara 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Connemara in the Spring?

Both Connemara 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 Connemara in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Limerick is around the same temperature as Connemara in the spring. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Connemara fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Limerick usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Connemara during spring. Limerick gets 148 hours of sunny skies, while Connemara receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Limerick usually receives around the same amount of rain as Connemara. Limerick gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Limerick 9°C (48°F) 
    Connemara 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Connemara and Limerick

Limerick Connemara
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)