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

Should you visit Palermo or Limerick?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Limerick can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Palermo

Palermo is a fun, colorful, and diverse city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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 Palermo or Limerick?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo than Limerick. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palermo is famous for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also well known for The Cathedral. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Palermo different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palermo
Limerick

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Palermo or Limerick.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palermo. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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 Palermo or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palermo
Limerick

Palermo is a great 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.

Palermo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Palermo
Limerick

Palermo 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 Palermo has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Limerick Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo
Limerick

Palermo 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 Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Limerick is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Palermo or Limerick Better for Beaches?

Palermo
Limerick

Palermo is a great city for the beach. However, Limerick is not a beach destination.

Palermo is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Limerick is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Limerick?

Palermo
Limerick

Palermo 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 Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or Limerick Better for Families?

Palermo
Limerick

Palermo is a great city 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 Palermo. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or Limerick Better for Couples?

Palermo
Limerick

Both Palermo and Limerick are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban 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 Palermo or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palermo
Limerick

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

Palermo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

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 Palermo or Limerick Better for Students?

Palermo
Limerick

Palermo and Limerick are both nice destinations for students and younger travelers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for students. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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


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

Palermo
Limerick

Limerick is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Limerick a more walkable city?

Palermo
Limerick

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

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Limerick?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Palermo or Limerick?

The city of Palermo offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Palermo or Limerick?

Palermo 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Palermo, 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 Palermo or Limerick?

Palermo 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 Palermo or Limerick?

Palermo 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 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Palermo?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Palermo is €92, 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 Palermo and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palermo 56
    Limerick 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palermo 112
    Limerick 98
Compare Hotels in Palermo and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Palermo 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 Palermo


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: Palermo Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palermo 5.64
    Limerick 40
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Palermo

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Palermo:


  • Bus to Monreale
    3.00
  • Bus From Airport
    6.00
  • 90 Minute Bus Pass
    1.30
  • Short Taxi Ride
    4.35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palermo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palermo:

  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Verdura Resort Sciacca or vice versa: $233
  • Transfer from Palermo Airport to Verdura Resort: $214
  • Private Golf Club Class w/ Transfer, Ticket, & Food: $176
  • Palermo Airport (PMO) Departure Transfer (Palermo Hotels or address to Airport): $156
  • Private Transfer Palermo Airport to/from Adler SPA Resort Sicily: $149
  • Private Transfer Trapani or San Vito lo Capo to Palermo Airport by Car or Van: $146
  • Palermo Private Transfer from or to Palermo Airport in Sicily : $137
  • Transfer from Palermo Airport to Palermo: $131
  • Private Transfer from Palermo (PMO) Airport to Santa Flavia: $124
  • Private Transfer Palermo Airport to/from San Vito Lo Capo, Macari: $109
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Marsala port or vice versa: $109
  • Transfers From / to Palermo Airport: $108

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Palermo or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Palermo 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
    Palermo 29
    Limerick 35
Typical Food Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of dining costs in Palermo are as follows:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    32
  • Fast Food Lunch
    5.32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palermo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Palermo.

  • Street Food Tour: $42
  • Street Food Tour: $65
  • Explore Palermo's with a Food Tour & Pizza Making Class: $68
  • Small Group Night Street Food Tour: $68
  • Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class with Dinner and Wine: $74
  • Palermo Traditional Food Tour: $74
  • Palermo's Delight: Unleash the Secrets of Pizza and Gelato Making: $75
  • Night Street Food Tour of Palermo : $75
  • Secret Food Tours Palermo: $85
  • Street Food Tour in Ballarò and Vucciria Markets: $86
  • Walking Street Food Tour with the Chef: $91
  • Sicilian Cooking Class: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palermo 17
    Limerick 17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Palermo are as follows:


  • Capuchin Catacombs (for 2)
    6.00
  • Castello della Zisa Entrance (for Two)
    12
  • Theater Tickets (for Two)
    49

Tours and Activities in Palermo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palermo are as follows:

  • 4 Hours Private Architectural Tour in Palermo: $165
  • Agrigento - Private Tour to the Valley of the Temples from Palermo: $295
  • Agrigento Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale Tour from Palermo: $133
  • Ballaro 'street food market tour & Santa Rosalia Sanctuary: $208
  • Cappella Palatina and Palazzo dei Normanni Tour: $91
  • Captivating Agrigento Sunset Tour of Valle dei Templi: $43
  • Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral Private Tour: $192
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Palermo: $152
  • Discover the Charm of A 3-Hour UNESCO Sites Walking Tour: $38
  • Eating Street Food & Market Tour: $117
  • English or Spanish tour to immersive museum + lunch: $37
  • Entrance ticket to the Radici Piccolo Museo Della Natura: $11

Tours and Activities in Limerick

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

  • Skip the Line: Hunt Museum Ticket: $14
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on the Limerick Greenway: $16
  • Limericks Lost Whiskey Walking Tour: $19
  • Skip the Line: Bunratty Castle and Folk Park Admission Ticket: $21
  • Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Including The Wild Altanic Way: $43
  • Dingle Peninsula Day Tour from Including The Wild Altanic Way: $53
  • Ring of Kerry Day Tour from Including Killarney National Park: $53
  • Cliffs of Moher explorer day tour from Limerick. Guided.: $54
  • Guided eBike Tours on the Lough Derg Shore: $82
  • Angela's Ashes 1.5hrs Walking Tour: $142
  • Private Walking Tour of Limerick City: $142
  • Private Walking Tour of Adare: $272

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palermo 11
    Limerick 12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Palermo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Palermo:


  • Beer
    2.56
  • Bottle of Quality Wine
    11

Sample the Local Flavors in Palermo

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

  • Pub Crawl Palermo: $16
  • Wine Tasting with Snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $41
  • Natural Local Wine Tasting & Sicilian Tapas: $49
  • Natural Wine Tasting with snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $53
  • Eating Palermo Food & Wine Tour: $82
  • 2-Hour Sicilian Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour: $128
  • From Erice and Marsala Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Wine Tasting for Small Groups in the Palermo Countryside: $196


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palermo and Limerick, we can see that Limerick is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palermo 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 Limerick would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Limerick than you might in Palermo.

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


Which is Bigger, Palermo or Limerick?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Limerick. Many visitors come to Palermo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Palermo is much warmer than Limerick in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Palermo 25°C (76°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Limerick because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Palermo is much warmer than Limerick. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Limerick averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Limerick. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Palermo 20°C (67°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Palermo during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Palermo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In January, Palermo is generally much warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in January than Limerick. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Palermo 12°C (53°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Limerick. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Limerick for the natural beauty.

Palermo is much warmer than Limerick in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Limerick. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Palermo 15°C (58°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Palermo

Palermo Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 42 mm (1.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 20°C (67°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)