A Travel Price Comparison for Ireland Limerick vs. Galway for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Limerick or Galway?

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 Galway 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.

Galway

Galway is a lively, friendly, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Limerick and Galway: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Limerick or Galway?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Galway than Limerick. While Limerick is larger than Galway, Galway has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galway is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Limerick is more popular for its impressive beauty. Limerick is more touristy than Galway and is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities. Galway is well known for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music. Also, Galway is famous for The Galway Market.

How is Limerick different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Limerick
Galway

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Galway 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.

Galway is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.


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

Limerick
Galway

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

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.

Galway offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Limerick or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Limerick
Galway

Galway 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 Galway has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

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 the Shopping Better in Limerick or Galway?

Limerick
Galway

If you're looking to go shopping, Limerick and Galway 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.

Galway is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.


Is Limerick or Galway Better for Families?

Limerick
Galway

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

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.

Galway is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Limerick or Galway Better for Couples?

Limerick
Galway

Both Limerick and Galway 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.

Galway is a nice destination for couples. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Limerick or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Limerick
Galway

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

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 Galway Better for Students?

Limerick
Galway

For students, both Limerick and Galway are notable places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Limerick. The city has a nice student scene with plenty of areas to explore.

Galway is a good city to visit for students. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

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

Limerick
Galway

Limerick and Galway both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Limerick offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a city bus service that travels around town.

Galway has a few public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

Is Limerick or Galway a more walkable city?

Limerick
Galway

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

Galway is a very walkable destination. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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 Galway Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Galway or Limerick?

How long in Limerick or Galway?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Limerick or Galway?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Limerick. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The city of Galway offers food and shopping. 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 Galway?

Limerick is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Galway 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Galway, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Limerick or Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Limerick. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Galway 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 Galway?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Limerick. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Galway is a great place to explore. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Galway 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 Galway is €131. 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 Galway in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Limerick 49
    Galway 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Limerick 98
    Galway 140
Compare Hotels in Limerick and Galway

Looking for a hotel in Limerick or Galway? 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 Galway


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 Galway Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Limerick 40
    Galway 33

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: $138
  • Transfer - Shannon Airport to Limerick City (or reverse) - Premium Sedan: $138
  • Limerick Private Transfer from central Limerick to Shannon: $205
  • Private Transfer between SHANNON & ADARE | Premium Vehicles: $215

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galway

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Galway:

  • Galway Private Driver: Personalized Tours & Transfers: $760
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Dublin Airport: $679
  • One-Way Private Transfer to Killarney: $679
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Cork City: $570
  • Galway to Limerick | Private Transfer and Car Service: $299
  • Galway to Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $299
  • Shannon Airport to Seamless Private Transfers: $261
  • Private Transfer between SHANNON & GALWAY | Premium Vehicles: $261
  • Galway Private Transfer from Galway Airport to City centre: $91
  • Galway Private Transfer from central Galway to Galway Airport: $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Limerick or Galway?

Prices for flights to both Galway 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
    Galway 33

Typical Food Prices in Galway

Some typical examples of dining costs in Galway are as follows:


  • Fish & Chips Dinner
    8.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galway

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

  • Tour & Taste Galway Food Tour: $94
  • Galway Food Tour: $109
  • Galway Food Tours: $110
  • Private Irish Cooking Experience in the Heart of Gaeltacht: $138
  • Farm to Table Experience and Irish Cooking Class in Galway: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Limerick 17
    Galway 12

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
  • 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: $54
  • Ring of Kerry Day Tour from Including Killarney National Park: $54
  • Cliffs of Moher explorer day tour from Limerick. Guided.: $55
  • Guided eBike Tours on the Lough Derg Shore: $83
  • Aran islands & Cliffs of Moher including cruise day tour departing from Limerick: $97
  • Angela's Ashes 1.5hrs Walking Tour: $143
  • Private Walking Tour of Limerick City: $143
  • Private Walking Tour of Adare: $275

Tours and Activities in Galway

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

  • Abalone farm tour and tasting with coastal seaweed walk. Guided. 2 hours: $83
  • Aran Island, Cliffs of Moher & Cruise tour from Galway. Guided.: $120
  • Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea & Scones - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin: $138
  • Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea and Scones from Galway: $165
  • Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Galway: $77
  • Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway City Docks: $61
  • Burren Botany Experience: $17
  • Castles of Connemara tour departing Galway city. Guided. Full day: $136
  • City Sightseeing Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $18
  • City of the Tribes Tour: $132
  • Claddagh Guided Walking Tour in Galway with Free Claddagh Ring: $72
  • Cliffs Of Moher Hiking Tour from Doolin - Small Group: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Limerick 12
    Galway 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Galway

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Galway:

  • Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour: $361


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


Which is Bigger, Limerick or Galway?

Limerick has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Limerick and Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway in the Summer?

Both Galway and Limerick during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Galway in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Limerick is around the same temperature as Galway. Typically, the summer temperatures in Limerick in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Galway averages at about 16°C (60°F).

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

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


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

Should I visit Limerick or Galway in the Autumn?

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

In October, Limerick is generally around the same temperature as Galway. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 11°C (52°F), and Galway fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

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

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


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

Should I visit Limerick or Galway in the Winter?

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

Limerick is around the same temperature as Galway in the winter. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

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

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


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

Should I visit Limerick or Galway in the Spring?

Both Galway 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 activities around the city are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

In the spring, Limerick is around the same temperature as Galway. Typically, the spring temperatures in Limerick in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Galway averages at about 9°C (48°F).

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

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


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

Typical Weather for Galway and Limerick

Limerick Galway
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)