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

Should you visit Zurich or Limerick?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Limerick. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Limerick

Limerick is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Limerick: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Zurich or Limerick?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich than Limerick, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zurich is more touristy than Limerick and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Limerick is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

How is Zurich different from Limerick?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zurich
Limerick

Zurich is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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 Zurich or Limerick? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich
Limerick

Zurich 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.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Limerick Better for Nightlife?

Zurich
Limerick

Zurich 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 Zurich has something for everybody. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Limerick Better for Music?

Zurich
Limerick

Zurich is a great city for its music scene. However, Limerick is not a live music destination.

Zurich has a thriving music scene. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Limerick is not a live music destination.


Is Zurich or Limerick Better for its Old Town?

Zurich
Limerick

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

Zurich has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Limerick?

Zurich
Limerick

Zurich is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Zurich specifically to go shopping. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich or Limerick Better for Families?

Zurich
Limerick

Zurich 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 Zurich. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Limerick Better for Couples?

Zurich
Limerick

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

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Limerick Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich
Limerick

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

Zurich is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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 Zurich or Limerick Better for Students?

Zurich
Limerick

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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


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

Zurich
Limerick

Zurich is a great city 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 Zurich can get you to most places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Zurich or Limerick a more walkable city?

Zurich
Limerick

Zurich 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.

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Limerick Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Limerick or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Limerick?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Zurich or Limerick?

The beautiful city of Zurich offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Limerick. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Zurich or Limerick?

Zurich 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Limerick is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Limerick?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Limerick. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Limerick?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Limerick. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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 Zurich?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $268, 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 Zurich and Limerick in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zurich $170
    Limerick $52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zurich $340
    Limerick $104
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Limerick

Looking for a hotel in Zurich 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 Zurich


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: Zurich Hotel Prices and Limerick Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Limerick $43
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • ST. Moritz Luxury Private Transfer to Zurich Airport: $1,411
  • SUV LUXURY TRANSFER FROM AIRPORT ZURIGO to MILANO MALPENSA: $1,083
  • TRANSFER FROM AIRPORT MILANO MALPENSA TO ZURIGO: $1,083
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Airport to Scuol: $857
  • Switzerland: Private Transfer to Interlaken & Grindelwald: $809
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Airport to Gstaad Saanen: $651
  • Private Transfer From Zurich Airport to Adelboden: $642
  • TRANSFER VAN LUXURY DA AIRPORT ZURIGO A BASEL: $640
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Airport to Disentis: $636
  • Private Transfer Interlaken to Zurich Airport: $634
  • Privat Transfer Zurich Airport to Interlaken: $634
  • Private Transfer From Zurich Airport to Thun: $613

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 Zurich or Limerick?

Prices for flights to both Limerick and Zurich 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
    Zurich $62
    Limerick $37
Typical Food Prices in Zurich

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


  • Breakfast for 2
    $13

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Limerick $19

Tours and Activities in Zurich

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

  • 007-Elegance: Exclusive Private Tour Schilthorn from Zürich: $627
  • 3 Hours Private Tour Around Zurich: $224
  • 3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour - Cruise on the Lake - Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg: $101
  • Adventure to Mount Pilatus Gold and Silver tour: $157
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Zürich: $650
  • Alpine Majesty:Zürich to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $799
  • Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich: $129
  • Best Intro Tour of Zurich with a Local: $124
  • Best of Zürich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Best of Zurich Tour with Felsenegg Cable Car and Ferry Ride : $73
  • Best of Zurich and Surroundings - Extended City Sightseeing Tour: $87
  • Bike Private Tour with Pickup and Drop off From Zurich: $114

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
    Zurich $29
    Limerick $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $31
  • eTukTuk Hot Stone BBQ and Wine Tour Zürich: $129


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


Which is Bigger, Zurich or Limerick?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Limerick. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Limerick in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zurich is a little warmer than Limerick. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Limerick averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 142 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Limerick. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zurich 21°C (70°F) 
    Limerick 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Limerick in the Autumn?

Both Limerick and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Limerick. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Limerick fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Limerick during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 82 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Limerick. Zurich gets 70 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
    Zurich 13°C (56°F) 
    Limerick 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Limerick in the Winter?

Both Limerick and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Limerick because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. Zurich is much colder than Limerick in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Limerick fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Limerick. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Limerick receives 49 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets less rain in January than Limerick. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zurich 3°C (37°F) 
    Limerick 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Limerick in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Limerick. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Limerick this time of year.

In the spring, Zurich is a little warmer than Limerick. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Limerick averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Limerick during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Limerick receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Limerick. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Limerick receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zurich 12°C (53°F) 
    Limerick 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Limerick and Zurich

Zurich Limerick
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)