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

Should you visit Lucerne or Limerick?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Limerick. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a active, cultural, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Lucerne and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lucerne or Limerick?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucerne than Limerick. While Limerick is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucerne is more touristy than Limerick and is known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lucerne
Limerick

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

Many visitors head to Lucerne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lucerne
Limerick

Both Lucerne and Limerick offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Lucerne is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

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 Lucerne or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne
Limerick

Lucerne 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 Lucerne has something for everybody. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

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 Lucerne or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne
Limerick

Lucerne is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Limerick?

Lucerne
Limerick

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

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 Lucerne or Limerick Better for Families?

Lucerne
Limerick

Both Lucerne and Limerick are nice family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

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 Lucerne or Limerick Better for Couples?

Lucerne
Limerick

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

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne or Limerick Better for Students?

Lucerne
Limerick

Limerick is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

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

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Lucerne
Limerick

Lucerne and Limerick both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

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

Is Lucerne or Limerick a more walkable city?

Lucerne
Limerick

Lucerne and Limerick are nice when it comes to walkability.

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable city. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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 Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Limerick?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Lucerne or Limerick?

The beautiful city of Lucerne offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Limerick, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Lucerne or Limerick?

Lucerne 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lucerne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Limerick, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Limerick has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Limerick?

Lucerne 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.

Limerick is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Lucerne or Limerick?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Limerick. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Limerick. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Lucerne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lucerne is $214, while the average daily cost in Limerick is $115. 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 Lucerne and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lucerne $137
    Limerick $52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lucerne $274
    Limerick $104
Compare Hotels in Lucerne and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Lucerne 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 Lucerne


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: Lucerne Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lucerne $13
    Limerick $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

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

  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126

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 Lucerne or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Lucerne 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
    Lucerne $62
    Limerick $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

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

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lucerne $34
    Limerick $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

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


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    $34
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    $35

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

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

  • A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $275
  • A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $534
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Luzern: $563
  • Alpine Majesty:Luzern to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $821
  • Basel: Swiss Alps Glacier Express Train Ride & Lucerne Tour: $760
  • Best of Lucerne Walking Photography Tour: $179
  • Burgenstock Private Tour: Mt. Rigis & Lake of Lucerne Cruise: $585
  • City tour plus Lucerne: $95
  • Day Trip from Grindelwald First Mountain Adventure: $174
  • Day Trip to Swiss Villages from Lucerne - Small Group tour by Car: $200
  • Early morning tour: $213
  • Exploring Lucerne with Friends: A Local Experience ❤: $159

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
    Lucerne $22
    Limerick $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

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

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


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


Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Limerick?

Limerick has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Limerick in the Summer?

Both Limerick and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Limerick in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Limerick in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Limerick. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Lucerne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lucerne is a little warmer than Limerick. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Limerick averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets less rain in October than Limerick. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Limerick in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Limerick. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Limerick because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Lucerne is generally much colder than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Limerick. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Limerick. The spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Limerick in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Limerick. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Lucerne

Lucerne Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)