Explore Limerick

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Limerick is a major city in the Republic of Ireland, set in Munster province in the south of the country. Its compact old town is known for the medieval-era St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. John’s square, which is lined with Georgian townhouses. Standing along the River Shannon, the 13th-century King John’s Castle is one of the city’s most recognisable sites. ― Google

Population: 102,287 (2022)

Eircode Routing Key: V94

Elevation: 10 m (30 ft)

Founded: 812 AD

Province: Munster

Region: Southern (Mid-West)

Telephone Area Code: 061(+353 61)

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Limerick

  • May to September: Best weather for sightseeing and river walks.

  • March: For St. Patrick’s Day parades and festivities.

  • October: Richard Harris International Film Festival takes place.

  • Winters are quieter but often rainy — good for museum visits and pub culture.

✈️ How to Get There

  • By Air:

    • Shannon Airport (SNN) is just 25 km away — ~30 minutes by car or bus.

  • From Dublin:

    • By train: ~2.5 hours from Heuston Station

    • By bus: ~2.5–3 hours (Bus Éireann, Dublin Coach)

    • By car: ~2–2.5 hours via M7 motorway

🌟 Top Attractions

1. King John’s Castle

  • A well-preserved 13th-century castle with interactive exhibitions and stunning views of the River Shannon.

2. The Hunt Museum

  • Home to artifacts from ancient Egypt to Picasso, all housed in a Georgian customs house.

3. St. Mary’s Cathedral

  • Dating back to 1168, this is one of Ireland’s oldest and most beautiful churches.

4. Limerick City Gallery of Art

  • Contemporary Irish art and rotating exhibitions, located near the lovely People’s Park.

5. Treaty Stone

  • Symbolizes the 1691 Treaty of Limerick — an important historical event.

6. Milk Market

  • Bustling food market with local produce, baked goods, crafts, and music (open Friday to Sunday).

🧭 Activities To Do

  • Stroll the riverside paths along the Shannon or go kayaking.

  • Watch a Munster Rugby game at Thomond Park — an electric atmosphere!

  • Take a walking tour through the Medieval Quarter.

  • Explore Georgian architecture and hidden alleyways downtown.

  • Attend live music sessions or storytelling evenings in traditional pubs.

🏨 Accommodation

  • Luxury:

    • The Savoy Hotel – 5-star comfort in the city center.

    • No. 1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa – Elegant Georgian townhouse.

  • Mid-range:

    • Absolute Hotel – Stylish, riverside with great dining.

    • George Limerick Hotel – Central location, modern interiors.

  • Budget:

    • The Pier Hotel – Basic but well-located.

    • Limerick City Hotel – Good value with river views.

🍽️ Food & Restaurants

Local Specialties:

  • Limerick ham, Irish stew, and seafood chowder

  • Artisan cheeses, soda bread, and black pudding

Top Picks:

  • The Locke Bar – Great pub food, riverside terrace, live music

  • Freddy’s Bistro – Cozy fine dining with modern Irish cuisine

  • Curragower Bar – Famous for seafood and steaks

  • Canteen – Trendy brunch and casual dining spot

🎭 Local Culture

  • Known for rugby, storytelling, and a gritty creative spirit.

  • The birthplace of actor Richard Harris and writer Frank McCourt (author of Angela’s Ashes).

  • Festivals:

    • Riverfest Limerick (May): food, fireworks, and family fun.

    • Limerick Jazz Festival (September)

    • Richard Harris Film Festival (October)

  • The city blends medieval roots, Georgian elegance, and modern resilience — it's Ireland’s under-the-radar cultural powerhouse.