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

Should you visit Marbella or Limerick?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Limerick, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marbella

Marbella is a high energy, ritzy, and glamorous resort town. 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Marbella or Limerick?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marbella than Limerick, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Limerick is known for its museums. Marbella is more touristy than Limerick and is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos. Limerick is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Marbella different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marbella
Limerick

Limerick is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marbella 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.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marbella
Limerick

Both Marbella and Limerick offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Marbella has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Limerick area. 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 Marbella or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Marbella
Limerick

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

Marbella is a must-see party destination. European tourists flock to the town for its beaches and resorts. The town has a glamorous nightlife scene with exclusive clubs and ritzy cocktail bars, particularly in Puerto Banus and along the Golden Mile.

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 Marbella or Limerick Better for Music?

Marbella
Limerick

Marbella is a great resort town for its music scene. However, Limerick is not a live music destination.

Marbella has a thriving music scene. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Limerick is not a live music destination.


Is Marbella or Limerick Better for Resorts?

Marbella
Limerick

Marbella is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Limerick is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Marbella is a perfect choice. From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa.

Limerick is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Limerick Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella
Limerick

Marbella is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Limerick is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Marbella is not to be missed. There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves.

Limerick is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Limerick Better for Beaches?

Marbella
Limerick

Marbella is terrific for the beach. However, Limerick is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Marbella is a very popular vacation destination. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. Popular options include Guadalmina Beach, San Pedro de Alcántara Beach, and Nueva Andalucía Beach.

Limerick is not a beach destination.


Is Marbella or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Marbella
Limerick

Marbella is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Marbella has an old town worth visiting. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Limerick?

Marbella
Limerick

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

Many people travel to Marbella specifically to go shopping. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

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 Marbella or Limerick Better for Families?

Marbella
Limerick

Marbella is a great resort town 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 Marbella. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

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 Marbella or Limerick Better for Couples?

Marbella
Limerick

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

For those traveling as a couple, Marbella has plenty to offer. The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon.

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 Marbella or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella
Limerick

Marbella is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

Marbella is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels in the area for backpackers who want to enjoy this part of Spain's cost. There's also a lively nightlife scene and plenty of opportunities to meet others.

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 Marbella or Limerick Better for Students?

Marbella
Limerick

Limerick is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Marbella is not popular with students.


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

Marbella
Limerick

Limerick is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.

Is Marbella or Limerick a more walkable city?

Marbella
Limerick

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

Marbella is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable and there are a number of hotels and nice resorts within a short walk of the town along a nice promenade.

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 Marbella Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marbella or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marbella than Limerick because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Marbella or Limerick? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marbella 2-5 
    Limerick 1-2

One day in Marbella or Limerick?

The beautiful resort town of Marbella offers shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The city of Limerick offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Marbella or Limerick?

Marbella is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this resort town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marbella, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Limerick is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Limerick, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Limerick?

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

Limerick is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marbella or Limerick?

Marbella is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

Limerick is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Marbella?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Marbella is €117, while the average daily cost in Limerick is €108. 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 Marbella and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marbella 61
    Limerick 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marbella 122
    Limerick 98
Compare Hotels in Marbella and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Marbella 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 Marbella


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: Marbella Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marbella 24
    Limerick 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marbella

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

  • From Malaga: Private Transfer Malaga Airport to Marbella: $235
  • Private Transfer from Gaucín to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $223
  • Private Transfer from Benaoján to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $214
  • Private Transfer from La Alcaidesa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $205
  • Private Transfer from Manilva to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $175
  • Private Transfer from Sabinillas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Estepona to Malaga (AGP) airport: $155
  • Private Transfer from Cómpeta to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $138
  • Private Transfer from El Paraíso to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $135
  • Private Transfer from San Pedro de Alcántara to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Istán to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Benahavís to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Marbella or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Marbella 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
    Marbella 38
    Limerick 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marbella

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

  • Food Tour: $87
  • The Mediterranean Diet & Lifestyle Cooking Class.: $180
  • Gourmet Cooking Class & Culture in the rural Montes de Malaga.: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marbella 19
    Limerick 17

Tours and Activities in Marbella

For Marbella, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 h Estepona Bay Tour: $47
  • 2 hours Quad Tour in Marbella - 1 quad for 1/2 persons 160€: $175
  • Antequera Classic Winery Tour: $206
  • Authentic Andalusia - Jeep Eco Tour (pick up from Marbella - Estepona) : $98
  • Bike City Tour Marbella: $32
  • Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir: $109
  • Caminito del Rey and Ardales Guided Tour from Costa del Sol: $75
  • Canyoning Experience Near Marbella (Benahavís River Walk): $49
  • Discover Marbella's Old Town with five-star private tour: $97
  • Dolphin Watching Adventure in Estepona Bay: $38
  • Dolphin Watching Tour on Sailboat in Marbella: $71
  • E-Bike Tour through Marbella/ Puerto Banús and San Pedro: $101

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
    Marbella 5.71
    Limerick 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella

Also in Marbella, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Manilva & Gaucin Wine Tour from the Costa del Sol: $152
  • From Manilva Sunset Wine Tasting Tour with Tapas: $159
  • Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella: $195
  • From Antequera Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $213
  • From Axarquia Wine Tour with Wine Pairing Lunch: $234
  • Full-Day Private Ronda Wine Tour Experience from Marbella: $262
  • VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker: $272


When comparing the travel costs between Marbella and Limerick, we can see that Marbella is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marbella Expensive? and Is Limerick Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marbella or Limerick?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Marbella 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 Marbella 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 Marbella or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Limerick. Most visitors come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Limerick because of the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Limerick. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Marbella or Limerick in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Limerick. The autumn months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Limerick. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marbella 19°C (67°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Limerick for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives less rain than Limerick. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marbella 12°C (54°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Limerick in the Spring?

Both Limerick and Marbella during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Limerick in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Limerick. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marbella 16°C (60°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Marbella

Marbella Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)