A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Limerick for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Limerick can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a park-filled, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and theater.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

Both Limerick and Stratford-upon-Avon have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm, while Limerick is known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Limerick is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

Limerick is very good for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is terrific for its shows and theatre. However, Limerick is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Stratford-upon-Avon is world-class. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Limerick is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Limerick can be an enjoyable experience.

Stratford-upon-Avon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Limerick is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon has an old town worth visiting. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

Limerick is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly town. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick Better for Couples?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Limerick are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Stratford-upon-Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Limerick is a good town for couples to visit. There are river cruises, kayaking, and nature to explore. Head to the Curraghchase Forest Park or any of the many beautiful parks around town. Couples can combine history with nature and enjoy a nice, romantic trip through Limerick.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick Better for Students?

Limerick is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Limerick is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon and Limerick are good when it comes to walkability.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable place. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick to fill your time. In our opinion, Limerick has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Limerick than Stratford-upon-Avon. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Limerick than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Limerick.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stratford-upon-Avon, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick?

Limerick has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Limerick. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Limerick averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Limerick. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Limerick. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Limerick. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Limerick. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. Stratford-upon-Avon is much colder than Limerick in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Limerick. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Limerick in the Spring?

Both Limerick and Stratford-upon-Avon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Limerick. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Limerick averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Limerick. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Limerick and Stratford-upon-Avon