A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Outer Hebrides vs. Limerick for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides 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.

Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides is a natural, tranquil, and serene archipelago. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Limerick

Limerick is a historic, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Outer Hebrides and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

Both Limerick and Outer Hebrides have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Outer Hebrides is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Limerick is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Limerick is more touristy than Outer Hebrides and is known for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities. Outer Hebrides is well known for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries.

How is Outer Hebrides different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Limerick is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

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

Outer Hebrides has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find plenty of seafood, smokehouses, distilleries and crofting produce in the area. Most islands have independent restaurants as well as pubs and other local eateries to choose from.

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 Outer Hebrides or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Limerick is a good destination for nightlife. However, Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Outer Hebrides or Limerick Better for Beaches?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Outer Hebrides is a great archipelago for the beach. However, Limerick is not a beach destination.

Outer Hebrides is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. From white sand beaches to hidden coves, you'll enjoy a completely serene beach experience on these islands. You can get lost in the nature and soak up the surprisingly blue waters at any of the remote beaches. Favorite beaches in the area include Vatersay Bay, Coilleag a’Phrionnsa, West Coast Beach, and Crabhadail.

Limerick is not a beach destination.


Is Outer Hebrides or Limerick Better for Hiking?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Outer Hebrides is terrific for hiking. However, Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Outer Hebrides specifically for its hiking. The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Limerick is a good destination for shopping. However, Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Limerick. 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Limerick Better for Families?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Both Outer Hebrides and Limerick are notable family-friendly destinations.

Outer Hebrides is a family-friendly archipelago. The beautiful outdoor setting is great for kids and adults alike. There are beaches to explore as well as kid-friendly museums. You can also try your hand at digging for cockles or head out on the water to watch for dolphins.

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 Outer Hebrides or Limerick Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

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

Outer Hebrides is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Go island hopping and discover the countless beautiful beaches. You can take a boat trip or simply soak up the peaceful coastal setting.

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 Outer Hebrides or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

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

Outer Hebrides is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll need to take either a plane of ferry to reach the islands but once you're there you can camp and hike and soak up the tranquil setting.

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 Outer Hebrides or Limerick Better for Students?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Limerick is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.

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

Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.


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

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Limerick is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides. There are buses that run doing the day between Monday and Saturday. In Stornoway you may be able to find some evening buses as well.

Is Outer Hebrides or Limerick a more walkable city?

Outer Hebrides
Limerick

Limerick is a good destination for its walkability. However, Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

Limerick is somewhat walkable. There are compact and walkable parts to the city that can be explored on foot.

Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Outer Hebrides Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Outer Hebrides?

How long in Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Outer Hebrides or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Outer Hebrides than Limerick because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides.


  • How many days in Outer Hebrides or Limerick? Ideal Length of Stay
    Outer Hebrides 4-10 
    Limerick 1-2

One day in Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

The beautiful archipelago of Outer Hebrides offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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, you'll find museums and nightlife. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

Outer Hebrides is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

Outer Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Outer Hebrides, 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. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

Outer Hebrides is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Outer Hebrides has to offer. This archipelago offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Limerick. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Outer Hebrides?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Outer Hebrides is £123, 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 Outer Hebrides and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Outer Hebrides £62
    Limerick £42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Outer Hebrides £124
    Limerick £84
Compare Hotels in Outer Hebrides and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides


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: Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Outer Hebrides £51
    Limerick £34

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 Outer Hebrides or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Outer Hebrides 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
    Outer Hebrides £31
    Limerick £30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Outer Hebrides £20
    Limerick £15

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
    Outer Hebrides £6.36
    Limerick £10


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



When is the best time to visit Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Limerick. Many travelers come to Outer Hebrides for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Limerick in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Outer Hebrides is generally cooler than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 13°C (55°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Limerick during summer. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Limerick. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Outer Hebrides 13°C (55°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Limerick in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Limerick. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Outer Hebrides is cooler than Limerick in the autumn. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Outer Hebrides often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. Outer Hebrides gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in October than Limerick. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Outer Hebrides 9°C (49°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Outer Hebrides are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Outer Hebrides for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Limerick because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Outer Hebrides can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Outer Hebrides is cooler than Limerick. Typically, the winter temperatures in Outer Hebrides in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Limerick averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Limerick during winter. Outer Hebrides gets 33 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Outer Hebrides. In January, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Limerick. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Limerick in the Spring?

Both Limerick and Outer Hebrides during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Outer Hebrides because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In April, Outer Hebrides is generally cooler than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 7°C (44°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Outer Hebrides often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in April than Limerick. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Outer Hebrides 7°C (44°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 126 mm (5 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)


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