I’ll be honest, Limerick wasn’t originally part of my Ireland itinerary. I planned to rent a car so I could explore more of Ireland, including a stay in Dingle. Car rentals in Ireland are expensive and when it got closer to the trip, I realized I didn’t have enough money in my budget to rent a car. I found that basing myself in Limerick was the best option. I’m sharing the best things to do in Limerick, Ireland if you are exploring the country without a car.
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Why Stay in Limerick, Ireland?
Limerick is well connected to other cities and towns by bus and train, making it a convenient option if you don’t want to rent a car. It can also be a more affordable place to stay. Plus, there are plenty of day tours that leave from Limerick, making it easy to explore more of the country without driving yourself.
Take a City Tour: Best Things to Do in Limerick, Ireland
One of the best ways to get familiar with a city is by taking a city tour. It’s a great introduction to Limerick’s history and gives you a chance to see some of the city’s most important landmarks.
A tour can also help you get your bearings before spending the rest of your trip exploring on your own.
Visit the Milk Market
The Milk Market is one of the most popular places to visit in Limerick and a great stop for food lovers. Browse artisan foods and local crafts.
Explore King John’s Castle: Best Things to Do in Limerick, Ireland
King John’s Castle is one of the best things to do in Limerick, Ireland. The castle dates back to the 13th century and sits along the River Shannon. The castle has a fascinating history, and it includes exhibits and interactive displays that help bring that history to life. I was really impressed by how much was still in-tact after all this time.
Take a Day Trip to the Cliffs of Moher
You don’t have to stay in Galway to take a tour to the Cliffs of Moher. Plenty of day tours operate out of Limerick so you can enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. The Cliffs of Moher is a must-see stop on your Ireland itinerary.
Take a Day Trip to Dingle
Dingle was originally supposed to be part of my Ireland itinerary, so I was disappointed when I realized I couldn’t afford to rent a car.
Luckily, you can still visit Dingle on a day tour.
Dingle is a charming coastal town on the Dingle Peninsula, known for colorful buildings, cute shops, traditional pubs, and beautiful scenery. A guided tour is a great way to experience the area if you don’t have your own transportation.
Ring of Kerry: Best Things to Do in Limerick Ireland
Another option for a day tour from Limerick is the Ring of Kerry.
The Ring of Kerry is famous for its incredible landscapes, including mountains, coastlines, lakes, and small towns like Killarney. It’s one of the best areas to visit if you want to experience Ireland’s scenic countryside.
Take a Day Trip to Adare
Adare, Ireland is a picturesque town that feels like a fairytale and is only 30 minutes away from Limerick. It’s an easy bus trip to get there where you can explore a castle and even book a falconry experience. Read more about my trip to Adare here.
Take a Day Trip to Cork
Another city you can visit from Limerick is Cork.
Cork is Ireland’s second-largest city and is a great place to spend a day shopping, eating, and exploring historic sites.
If you’re trying to see more of Ireland without changing hotels every night, Limerick makes a convenient home base for exploring other cities and towns.
Visit Coolwater Garden: Relaxing Things to Do in Limerick, Ireland
Coolwater Garden is a peaceful place to spend some time surrounded by plants and beautiful scenery. It’s a nice change of pace from visiting castles, museums, and busy city attractions.
Visit the Hunt Museum
Art lovers should add the Hunt Museum to their list of things to do in Limerick Ireland.
The museum houses an impressive collection of art and antiques. It’s a good place to spend a few hours, especially if you want to learn more about art and history while visiting the city.
Where to Eat in Limerick
Hook & Ladder
Hook & Ladder is a casual spot that’s great for a meal during a day of sightseeing. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a menu with plenty of options.
The Cornstore
The Cornstore is a good choice if you’re looking for a nicer meal. It’s known for its focus on quality ingredients and is a popular choice for dinner.
Katie Daly’s
For a more traditional pub atmosphere, check out Katie Daly’s. It’s a fun place to grab a meal and enjoy some of Limerick’s pub culture.
Where to Stay in Limerick
Absolute Hotel Limerick was my favorite stay during my Ireland itinerary. One benefit of staying in Limerick is that the cost of accommodations is cheaper than other popular cities in Ireland. I was able to book a clean and modern room with amazing AC that kept me cool during a heat wave. Plus the restaurant onsite was excellent.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Limerick, Ireland
Limerick may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning an Ireland trip, but it ended up working really well for my travel plans. It is well connected to other cities by both bus and train.
Limerick, Ireland turned out to be a smart choice for my budget and travel style. Between the historic attractions, museums, restaurants, markets, and easy day trips, there are plenty of things to do in Limerick, Ireland.