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

Should you visit London or Limerick?

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 London and Limerick can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a diverse, iconic, and global city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Limerick

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

Is there more to do in London or Limerick?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London than Limerick. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. London is more touristy than Limerick and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also well known for Big Ben. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

Big Ben
Big Ben

How is London different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Limerick and London. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in London or Limerick?

London
Limerick

London 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, London has many famous sights for visitors. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

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 London or Limerick Better for Theater?

London
Limerick

London is terrific for its shows and theatre. However, Limerick is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in London is world-class. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Limerick is not a theatre destination.

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

London
Limerick

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

London has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

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 London or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

London
Limerick

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

London is a must-see party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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 London or Limerick Better for Music?

London
Limerick

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

London has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Limerick is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Limerick?

London
Limerick

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

Many people travel to London specifically to go shopping. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

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 London or Limerick Better for Christmas?

London
Limerick

London is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Limerick does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in London. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Limerick does not offer Christmas activities.


Is London or Limerick Better for Christmas Markets?

London
Limerick

London is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Limerick does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in London are not to be missed. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Limerick does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Limerick Better for Families?

London
Limerick

London is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

London is one of the most popular family destinations. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

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 London or Limerick Better for Couples?

London
Limerick

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

For those traveling as a couple, London has plenty to offer. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

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 London or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London
Limerick

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

A large number of backpackers visit London, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

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 London or Limerick Better for Students?

London
Limerick

London 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 London. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

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

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

London
Limerick

London 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 London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

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


Is London or Limerick a more walkable city?

London
Limerick

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

London is a very easy city to get around on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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 London Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or London?

How long in London or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in London or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in London than Limerick because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

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

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


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

One day in London or Limerick?

London 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.

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

A weekend in London or Limerick?

London 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.

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.


Five days in London or Limerick?

London is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in London, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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.

A week in London or Limerick?

London 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 London has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or London?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in London is £190, while the average daily cost in Limerick is £92. 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 London and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    London £123
    Limerick £42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    London £246
    Limerick £84
Compare Hotels in London and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in London or Limerick? 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 London


Hotels in Limerick


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: London Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    London £26
    Limerick £34
Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

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


  • Taxi Ride
    £15
  • Heathrow Express
    £18
  • Luggage Storage
    £8.00
  • London Map
    £1.29
  • Oyster Card
    £36
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    £22
  • Oyster Card
    £27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

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

  • Southampton Cruise Terminals: Private Transfer to London: $1,300
  • London Luton Airport (LTN): Transfer to Southampton Port: $830
  • Southampton Port Transfer with Stonehenge stop-over included: $755
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Transfer to Bristol city: $680
  • London Gatwick Airport (LGW): Transfer to Southampton Port: $650
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $575
  • Private Transfer Heathrow to Southampton Cruise Terminal: $562
  • Private Transfer From Southampton Cruise Terminal to London: $562
  • Harry Potter Family Package Tickets with Transfer: $500
  • Harry Potter Family Package with Transfers from London: $500
  • London Stansted Airport (STN): Transfer to Southampton Port: $486
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Harwich Port: $439

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into London or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and London 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
    London £34
    Limerick £30
Typical Food Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    £13
  • Tea
    £6.00
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    £39
  • Morning Tea
    £6.35
  • Pastry
    £5.00
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    £18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

For London, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Borough Market Food Tour - Self Guided: $6.47
  • Dinner and Live DJ at A Fancy Restaurant: $16
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $34
  • Picadilly Circus: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner: $36
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour: $44
  • Pizza Making Cookery Class: $52
  • Borough Bites, The London Food Tour: $66
  • Borough Market Flavors of London Food Tour: $66
  • No Diet Club - Best food Tour in East London: $67
  • African & Caribbean Food Tour in Multi-Cultural Brixton: $74
  • Plant Power - Vegan Food Tour: $87
  • Ultimate London Food Tour: Borough Market & Southwark: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    London £33
    Limerick £15
Typical Entertainment Prices in London

For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Two Tickets to a Concert
    £83
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    £34
  • London Pass
    £47
  • Comedy Show
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in London

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for London.

  • Boogie Shoes Christmas Silent Disco Walking Tours London : $32
  • Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tour Camden: $63
  • Little Venice and Camden Walking Tour: $95
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Medieval Legends, ghosts and fire: $10
  • Silent Disco Walking Tours West End Boogie Shoes: $44
  • The London Dungeon Admission Ticket: $37
  • 'Downton Abbey' TV Locations and Blenheim Palace Tour from London: $220
  • "Luxury Tour: From London to Leeds Castle & Canterbury": $625
  • 1 Hour Unlimited Games and Rides Ticket in Babylon Park: $38
  • 2 Hour Belgravia Walking Tour and High Tea: $125
  • 2 Hours Rock and Roll Historical Walking Tour in London : $62
  • 2 Hours Unlimited Games and Rides Ticket in Babylon Park: $51

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    London £15
    Limerick £10

Sample the Local Flavors in London

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

  • Historic Pub Walking Tour of London: $13
  • 2-Hour Haunted Pub Walking Tour: $20
  • Shoreditch Bar Crawl of Five Venues with Drink Deals: $22
  • Central London Pub Crawl: $23
  • 1 Big Night Out Weekday Pub Crawl: $23
  • Camden Pub Crawl in London: $25
  • Craft Brewery Tour with Tasting of 4 Beers: $25
  • Shoreditch Pub Crawl in London: $25
  • Pub Crawl of Central London: $29
  • Burlesque Cabaret Show in Covent Garden: $31
  • Camden Pub Crawl & Bar Tour London: $31
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Tour: $31


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


Which is Bigger, London or Limerick?

London has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of London and Limerick, 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 London or Limerick?

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 London or Limerick in the Summer?

Both Limerick and London are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to London because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

London is a little warmer than Limerick in the summer. The daily temperature in London averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives less rain than Limerick. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    London 18°C (64°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit London or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to London this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, London is around the same temperature as Limerick. Typically, the autumn temperatures in London in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Limerick averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, London often gets more sunshine than Limerick. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in October than Limerick. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    London 12°C (53°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit London or Limerick in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Limerick. Many travelers come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Limerick in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in London. In January, London is generally cooler than Limerick. Daily temperatures in London average around 4°C (40°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

London usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives less rain than Limerick. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    London 4°C (40°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit London or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Limerick. Many visitors come to London in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the natural beauty during these months.

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

In the spring, London often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in April than Limerick. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Limerick and London

London Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)