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

Should you visit Utrecht or Limerick?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Limerick? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Utrecht

With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Limerick

Limerick is a historic, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Utrecht 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
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 Utrecht or Limerick?

You'll generally find more things to do in Utrecht than Limerick. Utrecht is bigger than Limerick, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Utrecht is more touristy than Limerick and is popular for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. Also, Utrecht is famous for the Dom Tower. Limerick is well known for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Utrecht different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Utrecht
Limerick

Both Utrecht and Limerick have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Utrecht is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

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.


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

Utrecht
Limerick

Foodies will find both Utrecht and Limerick both to be notable destinations.

Utrecht offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Limerick has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Utrecht or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Utrecht
Limerick

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

The nightlife in Utrecht has something for everybody. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

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 Utrecht or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht
Limerick

Utrecht is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Utrecht has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Limerick?

Utrecht
Limerick

Utrecht is a great 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 Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

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 Utrecht or Limerick Better for Families?

Utrecht
Limerick

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Utrecht or Limerick.

Utrecht is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Limerick is a family-friendly . 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 Utrecht or Limerick Better for Couples?

Utrecht
Limerick

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

Utrecht is a great if you're traveling as a couple. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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 Utrecht or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Utrecht
Limerick

Utrecht is a great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Utrecht. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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 Utrecht or Limerick Better for Students?

Utrecht
Limerick

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

Utrecht is very popular with students. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

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

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

Utrecht
Limerick

Utrecht is a great 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 Utrecht can get you to most places easily. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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


Is Utrecht or Limerick a more walkable city?

Utrecht
Limerick

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

Utrecht is a very easy to get around on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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 Utrecht Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Limerick?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Utrecht or Limerick?

The beautiful of Utrecht offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Utrecht or Limerick?

Utrecht is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this 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 Utrecht, 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 Utrecht or Limerick?

Utrecht 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 Utrecht or Limerick?

Utrecht 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 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Utrecht?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Utrecht is €189, 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 Utrecht and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Utrecht 106
    Limerick 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Utrecht 212
    Limerick 98
Compare Hotels in Utrecht and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Utrecht 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 Utrecht


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: Utrecht Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Utrecht 23
    Limerick 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $120
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15

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 Utrecht or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Utrecht 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
    Utrecht 58
    Limerick 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Utrecht

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

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $70
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Utrecht 44
    Limerick 17

Tours and Activities in Utrecht

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

  • 2 Hours Utrecht Family Walking Tour: $163
  • Captivating Utrecht Family Walking Tour: $321
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Christmas Joy in Utrecht Walking Tour: $448
  • Christmas Joy in Utrecht Walking Tour: $210
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Discover Utrecht with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $27
  • Discover Utrecht’s Zocherpark in this Outside Escape game tour!: $27
  • Discover Utrecht’s city center in this Outside Escape game tour!: $22
  • Explore Gems of Utrecht Walking Tour for Couples: $341
  • Explore Gems of Utrecht Walking Tour for Couples: $174

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
    Utrecht 24
    Limerick 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21


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


Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Limerick?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Limerick. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht 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 Utrecht 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 Utrecht or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Limerick. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Utrecht is generally around the same temperature as Limerick. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 17°C (62°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Utrecht often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in July than Limerick. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Limerick in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Utrecht is around the same temperature as Limerick in the autumn. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Utrecht usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during autumn. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Utrecht usually receives less rain than Limerick. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Utrecht 11°C (51°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Utrecht during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Utrecht in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Utrecht can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Utrecht is much colder than Limerick. Typically, the winter temperatures in Utrecht in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Limerick averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Limerick. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets less rain in January than Limerick. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Limerick. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Limerick because of the natural beauty.

In April, Utrecht is generally cooler than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 8°C (46°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick during spring. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of rain as Limerick. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Utrecht 8°C (46°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Utrecht

Utrecht Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)