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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Limerick can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a high energy, livable, and cultural port city. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Limerick: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne than Limerick. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Limerick attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Tyne Bridge. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port city for its evening party scene. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Newcastle upon Tyne has something for everybody. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick Better for Families?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Limerick. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Limerick are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

Newcastle upon Tyne is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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

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

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port city 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 public transit in Newcastle upon Tyne can get you to most places easily. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Limerick

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very easy port city to get around on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.


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

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

The port city of Newcastle upon Tyne offers food and shopping. 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.

In Limerick, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Limerick for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

The destination of Limerick offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 port city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Limerick. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newcastle upon Tyne is £130, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newcastle upon Tyne £51
    Limerick £42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newcastle upon Tyne £102
    Limerick £84
Compare Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne


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: Newcastle upon Tyne Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £12
    Limerick £34
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Newcastle upon Tyne:


  • Parking
    £1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle upon Tyne

Also for Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Newcastle Airport to Newcastle Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Club - Round-Trip Transfer: $65
  • Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $55
  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $33

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £68
    Limerick £30
Typical Food Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newcastle upon Tyne

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

  • The Ultimate Cheese & Wine Food Tour: $83
  • Newcastle Street Food Tour: $88
  • A Taste Of Newcastle Food Tour: $89
  • Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £17
    Limerick £15

Tours and Activities in Newcastle upon Tyne

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

  • 1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle: $25
  • 1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour: $23
  • 2 Hour Guided Tour of Hadrian's Wall: $38
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne: $38
  • Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket: $16
  • Guided City Walking Tour of Newcastle: $38
  • Guided Walks and Tours, Seahouses, Beadnell & Bamburgh: $29
  • Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins: $5.20
  • Hadrians Wall tour full day: $121
  • Half Day Hadrian’s Wall Guided Tour : $70
  • Half Day Tour of Newcastle: $183
  • Halloween Special: Newcastle's Dark Side Walking Tour: $32

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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £9.43
    Limerick £10

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle upon Tyne:

  • Private Newcastle Pub Tour: $191
  • Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour: $203


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


Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Limerick. The summer months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Limerick in the summer. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Limerick. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newcastle upon Tyne 15°C (59°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Limerick. The shopping scene are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Limerick. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Limerick averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Limerick. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in October than Limerick. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newcastle upon Tyne 10°C (49°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally much colder than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 3°C (38°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Limerick during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Limerick. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newcastle upon Tyne 3°C (38°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Limerick in the Spring?

Both Limerick and Newcastle upon Tyne during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the natural beauty during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Limerick in the spring. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Limerick. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in April than Limerick. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne 7°C (45°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)