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

Should you visit Zermatt 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 Zermatt and Limerick can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a iconic, breathtaking, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

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.

Zermatt and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Zermatt or Limerick?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Limerick, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Limerick is more popular for its museums. Zermatt is more touristy than Limerick and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Limerick is well known for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Limerick Better for Skiing?

Zermatt
Limerick

Zermatt is terrific for skiing. However, Limerick is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is among the world's best ski destinations. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Limerick is not a skiing destination.


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

Zermatt
Limerick

Limerick is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

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

Zermatt
Limerick

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

Zermatt has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

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 Zermatt or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt
Limerick

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

The nightlife in Zermatt has something for everybody. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

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 Zermatt or Limerick Better for Resorts?

Zermatt
Limerick

Zermatt is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Limerick is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zermatt. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Limerick is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Limerick Better for Hiking?

Zermatt
Limerick

Zermatt is terrific for hiking. However, Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Limerick?

Zermatt
Limerick

Zermatt is a great town 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 Zermatt. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

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 Zermatt or Limerick Better for Families?

Zermatt
Limerick

Zermatt is a great town 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 Zermatt. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

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 Zermatt or Limerick Better for Couples?

Zermatt
Limerick

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

For those traveling as a couple, Zermatt has plenty to offer. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

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 Zermatt or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt
Limerick

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Zermatt. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

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 Zermatt or Limerick Better for Students?

Zermatt
Limerick

Limerick is very good for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Zermatt
Limerick

Both Zermatt and Limerick offer notable public transit options.

Zermatt has a few public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

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

Is Zermatt or Limerick a more walkable city?

Zermatt
Limerick

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

Zermatt is a very easy town to get around on foot. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

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 Zermatt Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Limerick?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Limerick to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Limerick because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-2 days is enough time in Limerick.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Zermatt or Limerick? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zermatt 2-5 
    Limerick 1-2

One day in Zermatt or Limerick?

The beautiful town of Zermatt offers nightlife and 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 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 Zermatt or Limerick?

Zermatt 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zermatt, 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 Zermatt or Limerick?

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zermatt, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Zermatt or Limerick?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Limerick or Zermatt?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Zermatt is $223, while the average daily cost in Limerick is $115. 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 Zermatt and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zermatt $126
    Limerick $52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zermatt $252
    Limerick $104
Compare Hotels in Zermatt and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Zermatt 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 Zermatt


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: Zermatt Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zermatt $53
    Limerick $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

  • Private Transfer Zurich Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $1,087
  • 3-Hour Private Transfer from Zermatt and Saa to Geneva Airport: $235
  • Zermatt to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $141
  • Cervinia, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $127
  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer: $118

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 Zermatt or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Zermatt 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
    Zermatt $57
    Limerick $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zermatt

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

  • Evening Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zermatt $56
    Limerick $19

Tours and Activities in Zermatt

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

  • Basel Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $885
  • Basel: Gornergrat Railway & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tour: $1,067
  • Bern Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $856
  • Bern Private Tour: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise: $801
  • Bern: Gornergrat Railway & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tour: $984
  • From Basel: Zermatt and Mt. Gornergrat Small Group Tour: $530
  • From Bern: Zermatt Guided Tour with Matterhorn Railway Pass: $530
  • From Zurich: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise Private Tour: $885
  • Interlaken Private Tour to Gornergrat & Matterhorn Paradise: $1,026
  • Interlaken Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $843
  • Interlaken Private Tour: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise: $801
  • Majestic Hiking Private Tour in Zermatt with pick up: $1,692

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
    Zermatt $28
    Limerick $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Zermatt

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais: $84


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


Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Limerick?

Limerick has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt 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 Zermatt 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 Zermatt or Limerick in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Limerick. The summer months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Limerick. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Limerick in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Limerick. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the skiing, 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 Zermatt. In the winter, Zermatt is cooler than Limerick. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Limerick averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets less rain in January than Limerick. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Limerick. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Limerick. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Zermatt

Zermatt Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)