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

Should you visit Limerick or Rome?

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 Rome 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rome

Rome is a fun-filled, popular, and ancient city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Limerick and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum


Is there more to do in Limerick or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome than Limerick. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rome is more touristy than Limerick and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also well known for The Colosseum. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Limerick different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Limerick
Rome

Rome is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rome has many famous sights for visitors. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Limerick
Rome

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

Rome has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Limerick
Rome

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

Rome is a must-see party destination. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

Limerick
Rome

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

Rome has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Limerick is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Limerick or Rome?

Limerick
Rome

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

Many people travel to Rome specifically to go shopping. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Limerick is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a mix of brand name chains and independent boutiques in the city center. There are several major shopping streets in town including O'Connell Street, and the pedestrian streets of Bedford Row and Cruises Street.

Is Limerick or Rome Better for Families?

Limerick
Rome

Rome is a great city 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 Rome. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

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 Rome Better for Couples?

Limerick
Rome

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

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

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 Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Limerick
Rome

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

A large number of backpackers visit Rome, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

Limerick
Rome

Rome is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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

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

Limerick
Rome

Rome is terrific 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 thorough and effecient public transit system of Rome can take you anywhere. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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


Is Limerick or Rome a more walkable city?

Limerick
Rome

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

Rome is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Limerick?

How long in Limerick or Rome?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Limerick or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Limerick 1-2 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Limerick or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Limerick. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Rome is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Rome?

Limerick is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Limerick. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

The historic city of Limerick offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome 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 Rome is €170. 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 Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Limerick 49
    Rome 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Limerick 98
    Rome 178
Compare Hotels in Limerick and Rome

Looking for a hotel in Limerick or Rome? 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 Rome


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 Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Limerick 40
    Rome 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

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

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    2.00
  • Train to the Airport
    15
  • Taxi to Airport
    45
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,535
  • Fiumucino Rome Airport (FCO): 1-Way Transfer To Trieste Port: $2,535
  • Rome Airport (FCO): Transfer to/from Venice Port: $2,007
  • Luxury Private Transfer Siena to Rome Fiumicino Airport: $973
  • Private luxury transfer Siena to Rome city center: $936
  • Luxury private transfer Siena to Rome Ciampino airport: $936
  • Private Transfer from Amalfi to Rome or viceversa: $839
  • From Sorrento: Private Transfer to Rome or Vice Versa: $813
  • Verona Airport (VRN) : One-Way Private Transfer to Ravenna: $706
  • Sorrento to Rome 1-Way Private Transfer: $663
  • Private Transfer from Naples to Rome or viceversa: $620
  • From Private Transfer to Naples or Vice Versa: $588

Is it cheaper to fly into Limerick or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome 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
    Rome 47

Typical Food Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    14
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    2.99
  • Cafe e doce
    4.00
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    2.65
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    32
  • Cheese and bread
    10
  • Espresso
    2.00
  • Dinner
    58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome

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

  • Award-Winning Roman Food Tours: $16
  • Tipsy Food Crawl Walking Tour with Dinner: $31
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
  • Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
  • Guided Food Tour with Food and Drink Tastings: $33
  • Roman Master Chef Cooking Class with Wine: $36
  • Roman Dinner & History Tour: An Epic Journey Through Time: $37
  • Painting & Pizza Party with Unlimited Wine: $40
  • Campo dei Fiori & Jewish Ghetto area Street Food Tour: $42
  • Rome Food Tour : Street Food Testings with Local Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Limerick 17
    Rome 36

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Rome

Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2)
    69
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    33
  • Roma Pass
    30
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    20
  • Segway Tour
    75

Tours and Activities in Rome

Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Appian Way and Aqueducts Electric Bike Tour: $82
  • Castel Sant Angelo Skip the Line Tickets: $39
  • Colosseum Arena Floor Guided Tour with Ancient Rome Access : $195
  • Colosseum Gladiator Arena Floor Complete Guided Tour : $206
  • Colosseum Tour With Kids: $195
  • Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour with Circus Maximus and Forums: $16
  • Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill Professional Guided Tour: $161
  • Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $184
  • Complete St Peters Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Crypt: $43
  • Cruise into Rome?! Full-Day Rome Discovery from Civitavecchia : $96
  • Fast Track Colosseum with Arena and afternoon Vatican Museums Tour: $191
  • Golf Cart Driving Tour: Rome City Highlights in 2.5 hrs: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Limerick 12
    Rome 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:


  • Bottle of Wine
    6.50
  • Pint of Beer
    6.34
  • Beer
    10

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:

  • Trionfale and Prati Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $31
  • Trionfale Farmers Market and Vatican Quarter Food and Wine Tour: $32
  • Vatican Food and Wine Tasting Tour next to the Sistine Chapel: $32
  • Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $32
  • Vatican Quarter and Trionfale Farmers Market Food and Wine Tour: $43
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $52
  • Tipsy Tour: Fun Bar Crawl In Rome With Local Guide : $53
  • Wine Tour in Historic Center of Rome: $55
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Experience & Vineyards Tour : $61
  • Pasta Making Class & Wine Tasting in a Trasteve Villa: $68
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $68
  • Private Wine Tasting in Trastevere: $71


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


Which is Bigger, Limerick or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Limerick and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Limerick as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Rome in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Limerick is much colder than Rome in the summer. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. In the summer, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Rome. Limerick gets 142 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Limerick gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Limerick 16°C (60°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Limerick are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Limerick in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Limerick is much colder than Rome. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Limerick in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Rome averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Limerick gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Limerick 11°C (52°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Limerick during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Limerick for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Rome because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Limerick is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 6°C (42°F), and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Rome. Limerick gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in January than Rome. Limerick gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Limerick 6°C (42°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Rome in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Limerick and Rome. The spring months attract visitors to Limerick because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

Limerick is much colder than Rome in the spring. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Limerick gets 148 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Limerick usually receives more rain than Rome. Limerick gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Limerick 9°C (48°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Limerick

Limerick Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)