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

Should you visit Malaga 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 Malaga 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.

Malaga

Malaga is a beautiful, friendly, and welcoming port city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Limerick

Limerick is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Limerick?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Malaga than Limerick, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Malaga is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Limerick is known for its museums. Malaga is more touristy than Limerick and is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also home to The Alcazaba. Limerick is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Malaga different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Limerick is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Limerick offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town is famous for King John's Castle as well as St. Mary's Cathedral, and St. John's Square and Cathedral.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Malaga is a great port 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.

Malaga has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to any of the local food markets and seafood shops to try local cuisine. Also make sure you try tapas and a filling Andalusian breakfast.

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 Malaga or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

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

Malaga is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the most active nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of opportunities to party in Malaga and you'll find the most vibrant nightlife in the Centro Historico.

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 Malaga or Limerick Better for Music?

Malaga is a great port city for its music scene. However, Limerick is not a live music destination.

Malaga has a thriving music scene. The city has venues that offer pop, rock, blues, soulful, and more. Some of the most popular include ZZ club, Clarence Jazz Club, and Velvet Club.

Limerick is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Limerick Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Limerick is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Malaga. Water temperatures are mild enough for diving or snorkeling near Malaga. For the best diving, head to Cala del Canuelo Beach. Closer by, Penon del Cuervo Beach offers diving and snorkeling as well.

Limerick is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Limerick Better for Beaches?

Malaga is very good for the beach. However, Limerick is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Malaga to enjoy the beach. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Limerick is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a great port 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 Malaga. The city's old town is compact and small, making it a fun place to walk. There are historic buildings, museums, churches, and squares, as well as many restaurants and shops.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Limerick?

Both Malaga and Limerick are good shopping destinations.

Malaga offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

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.

Is Malaga or Limerick Better for Families?

Both Malaga and Limerick are good family-friendly destinations.

Malaga is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Limerick is a family-friendly port city. 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 Malaga or Limerick Better for Couples?

Malaga and Limerick both good destinations for a couple.

Malaga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Limerick is a good port 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.

Is Malaga or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Malaga, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

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 Malaga or Limerick Better for Students?

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

Malaga is very popular with students. The city has many opportunities to learn Spanish. It's also an affordable city with a young population and a lively atmosphere that appeals to international students.

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

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

Both Malaga and Limerick offer good public transit options.

Malaga has a few public transit options. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

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

Is Malaga or Limerick a more walkable city?

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

Malaga is a very walkable destination. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible on foot.

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 Malaga Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Malaga or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Malaga 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 Malaga, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

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

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

One day in Malaga or Limerick?

The beautiful port city of Malaga offers shopping and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Malaga or Limerick?

Malaga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Malaga or Limerick?

Malaga is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, 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 Malaga or Limerick?

Malaga is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer. This port city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy 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 Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Limerick?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Malaga 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 Malaga or Limerick?

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 Malaga or Limerick in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Malaga is much warmer than Limerick. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malaga in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Limerick averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Limerick. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Limerick in the Autumn?

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

In October, Malaga is generally much warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Limerick. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Limerick in the Winter?

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

Malaga is much warmer than Limerick in the winter. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in January than Limerick. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Limerick in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Malaga is much warmer than Limerick. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malaga in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Limerick averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Limerick. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Limerick and Malaga