Limerick Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
🏰 Top Sights & Attractions
1. Is King John’s Castle worth the entry fee? Yes, most travelers agree it’s the city’s top historical site with impressive interactive displays and great views of the Shannon.
2. What is the Milk Market? A vibrant farmer’s market. Saturday morning is the best time to visit for artisan food, coffee, and crafts.
3. What is the “Three Bridges Walk”? A scenic 3.6km loop along the River Shannon that passes the city’s major landmarks.
4. Where can I see medieval history? St. Mary’s Cathedral and the surrounding Medieval Quarter are the oldest parts of the city.
5. What is the Hunt Museum? A world-class collection of antiquities and art, including works by Picasso and Renoir, housed in the old Custom House.
6. Is the International Rugby Experience good for non-fans? Yes, it’s highly praised for its high-tech interactive games and immersive storytelling about the sport’s values.
7. Can I tour Thomond Park? Yes, you can take a guided tour of the legendary stadium, home to Munster Rugby.
8. What is the Treaty Stone? A historical landmark where the Treaty of Limerick was signed in 1691, located near the Curragower pub.
9. Where is the best place for street art? Wickham Street and the surrounding lanes have seen a massive influx of professional murals in recent years.
10. Are there any hidden museums? The People’s Museum of Limerick on Pery Square is a charming local gem located in a restored Georgian townhouse.
11. Is Limerick City Gallery of Art free? Yes, it’s located in the People’s Park and features contemporary Irish art.
12. What should I do on a rainy day? Visit the Hunt Museum, King John’s Castle, or spend a few hours in the O’Mahony’s bookstore (one of the largest in Ireland).
13. Where can I see a performance? The Lime Tree Theatre and the University Concert Hall (UCH) host major shows and concerts.
14. What is the “Angela’s Ashes” tour? A walking tour based on Frank McCourt’s famous memoir about growing up in poverty in Limerick.
15. Is there a “must-see” outside the city? Lough Gur is a stunning archaeological site with Stone Age ruins just 20 minutes away.
🍽️ Eating & Drinking
16. Where is the best pint of Guinness? Tom Collins, JJ Bowles, and The Locke Bar are frequently cited as the top spots.
17. Which pub has the best view? The Curragower offers the best sunset views of King John’s Castle and the river.
18. Where can I find live traditional Irish music? The Locke Bar (nightly) and Dolan’s Warehouse are the most reliable spots.
19. What is the best place for a “fancy” dinner? The Cornstore, Hamptons, or The East Room at Plassey House.
20. Where is a good spot for brunch? The Buttery, Spitjack, and Hook & Ladder are local favorites.
21. What is the “Chicken Hut”? A legendary local fast-food spot famous for its gravy. Locals swear by it after a night out.
22. Are there any craft breweries? Yes, Treaty City Brewery on Nicholas Street offers tours and tastings.
23. Where can I find good coffee? Fika, Rift Coffee, and Guji in the Milk Market are highly recommended by Redditors.
24. Is there a good vegetarian/vegan restaurant? The Grove and Canteen (very fresh, local ingredients) are great options.
25. Where is a good place for a quiet pint? The snug in Tom Collins or South’s Pub.
26. What’s the vibe at Nancy Blake’s? Cozy, traditional front bar with a massive, lively “Outback” beer garden in the back.
27. Is the food at the Milk Market expensive? It varies, but it’s generally affordable. Don’t miss the “Flying Cheese Brigade” or the crepes.
28. Where can I get a good steak? Texas Steakout (casual/family vibe) or Hamptons (more upscale).
29. What is “Dolan’s”? A world-renowned music venue, pub, and restaurant. It’s the heart of Limerick’s live music scene.
30. Where can I get fresh seafood? The Curragower is famous for its seafood chowder and fish and chips.
🏨 Where to Stay
31. What is the best luxury hotel? The Savoy in the city center or Adare Manor (20 mins away) if you have the budget.
32. Which hotel has the best views? The Strand Hotel and The Clayton both offer rooms overlooking the River Shannon.
33. Where should I stay for a “boutique” feel? No. 1 Pery Square is a stunning Georgian townhouse hotel with a spa.
34. Is it better to stay in the city or Adare? Stay in the city for nightlife and museums; stay in Adare for a “postcard” village experience.
35. Are there good budget options? Pery’s Hotel and various B&Bs along the Ennis Road are often recommended.
36. Is the University of Limerick (UL) a good place to stay? During summer, they offer affordable campus apartments, but it’s a 10-minute bus/taxi ride to the city.
37. Which area is the “most central”? Anything near O’Connell Street or the Medieval Quarter.
38. Is parking difficult at city hotels? Most major hotels (Strand, Clayton, Savoy) have their own secure parking.
39. Is the George Hotel good? Yes, it’s very central and popular for “city break” packages.
40. Are there any castle hotels nearby? Adare Manor is the big one, but Bunratty Castle Hotel is also nearby (just across the border in Clare).
🛡️ Safety & Practicalities
41. Is Limerick safe? Yes. While it had a rough reputation 20 years ago (“Stab City”), it is now considered safer than Dublin by many residents.
42. Are there areas to avoid? Stick to the city center and tourist areas. Like any city, some outer suburbs (Moyross, Southill) are less tourist-friendly, but you’ll have no reason to go there.
43. Is it safe to walk at night? Generally, yes, especially in well-lit areas. Stick to the main streets like O’Connell St and the quays.
44. What is the weather like? It rains often. Bring a light, windproof rain jacket even in summer.
45. How do I get from Shannon Airport to Limerick? Bus Éireann (Route 343) runs every 30-60 minutes. It takes about 40 minutes.
46. Can I walk from the train station to the city center? Yes, Colbert Station is only a 5-10 minute walk from the main shopping streets.
47. Do I need a car in Limerick? Not for the city itself (it’s very walkable), but you’ll want one for day trips to Clare or Kerry.
48. Is there Uber in Limerick? You can book taxis via the Uber app, but there are no private “UberX” cars. Use the Free Now app for the best results.
49. How is the public transport? Within the city, buses are okay but can be inconsistent. The “304” and “304A” are the main routes to the University.
50. Where is the Tourist Information Office? Located on O’Connell Street near the city center.
🚗 Day Trips & Beyond
51. Can I visit the Cliffs of Moher from Limerick? Yes, it’s about a 75-minute drive. Many tours also depart from the city.
52. Is Bunratty Castle close? Yes, it’s only 15 minutes away by car or bus. The Folk Park is excellent for families.
53. What is the Limerick Greenway? A 40km off-road cycling and walking path following an old railway line through the countryside.
54. Is Adare worth a visit? Absolutely. It’s often called “Ireland’s prettiest village” due to its thatched cottages.
55. How far is Galway? About 1 hour and 15 minutes via the M18 motorway.
56. Can I visit the Burren from here? Yes, the Burren is easily accessible within an hour’s drive.
57. What is Foynes known for? The Flying Boat & Maritime Museum (the birthplace of Irish Coffee!).
58. Are there any beaches nearby? Lahinch and Kilkee in County Clare are the closest “big” beaches (about 1 hour away).
59. Is the Rock of Cashel reachable? Yes, it’s about 50 minutes east in County Tipperary.
60. Can I do a day trip to the Ring of Kerry? It’s a long day (2+ hours to start the loop), but doable if you start early.
🛍️ Shopping & Culture
61. Where is the main shopping area? O’Connell Street, Cruises Street, and Bedford Row.
62. What is Brown Thomas? Ireland’s premier luxury department store; there is a large one in Limerick.
63. Are shops open on Sundays? Yes, typically from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
64. Where can I buy Irish crafts? The Milk Market or the various independent shops on Catherine Street.
65. Is there a cinema in the city? The Omniplex in Shannon St and the larger one in the Crescent Shopping Centre.
66. What is the Crescent Shopping Centre? A large suburban mall outside the city (one of the biggest in Ireland).
67. Are there any good bookstores? O’Mahony’s is a must-visit for book lovers.
68. Can I find “Angela’s Ashes” memorabilia? The Frank McCourt Museum (though currently check for opening status) and the city library have dedicated sections.
69. Where can I see a rugby match? Check the Munster Rugby website for fixtures at Thomond Park.
70. What are “The Banks”? A popular walking path along the river near the University of Limerick.
🎒 Miscellaneous Tips
71. What is a “Jambon”? A popular Irish deli pastry (puff pastry, ham, cheese). Try one at any Spar or Centra.
72. Do I need to tip in pubs? Not for drinks at the bar. For table service/food, 10% is standard.
73. What is “Rubberbandits” lore? A famous comedy/musical duo from Limerick known for wearing plastic bag masks.
74. Is the water safe to drink? Yes, tap water is perfectly safe.
75. What is “Limerick City of Culture”? A title the city held in 2014, which sparked a massive revitalization of its arts scene.
76. How do I pronounce “Shannon”? Exactly as it looks: Shan-non.
77. Is there a lot of hills? No, the city center is very flat and easy to walk.
78. Where can I rent a bike? There is a TIER bike-sharing scheme with docks around the city.
79. Are there any “tourist traps”? Some find the Bunratty Medieval Banquet a bit “cheesy,” but most still enjoy it for the experience.
80. What is the “Munster Roar”? The famous, deafening atmosphere created by fans at Thomond Park.
81. Is there a local dialect? Yes, the “Limerick accent” is distinct. You might hear “Kid” or “Pure” used often.
82. Can I pay with Euro everywhere? Yes, Ireland uses the Euro. Contactless payment is widely accepted.
83. Do I need an adapter for plugs? Yes, the 3-pin Type G plug (same as the UK).
84. Is smoking allowed in pubs? No, it has been banned indoors in Ireland since 2004. Most pubs have outdoor “smoking areas.”
85. What time do pubs close? Typically 11:30 PM on weekdays and 12:30 AM on weekends. Late bars/clubs stay open until 2:30 AM.
86. Is there a public park? The People’s Park is the main city-center park—small but very pretty.
87. Can I go kayaking? Yes, “Nevsail” offers kayaking tours on the River Shannon right through the city.
88. What is the “Treaty Stone” significance? It represents the end of the Williamite War in Ireland.
89. Are there many students? Yes, with UL, TUS, and Mary I, the city has a massive student population, making the nightlife very active.
90. Is the city industrial? It has industrial roots, but the riverside has been significantly “beautified” in recent years.
91. What is the “Limerick Leader”? The local newspaper—great for checking what’s on during your stay.
92. Are people friendly? Limerick people are known for being very “down to earth” and talkative.
93. Can I walk to the University from the city? It’s about a 45-minute walk along the scenic river path.
94. Is there a hospital? University Hospital Limerick (UHL) is the main one, located in Dooradoyle.
95. Where is the best place to see the sunrise? Along the North Shore/Clancy Strand.
96. What is the “Living Bridge”? A beautiful, wobbly pedestrian bridge on the UL campus (the longest in Ireland).
97. Are there public toilets? They are scarce. Most people use the facilities in department stores (like Penneys or Brown Thomas) or cafes.
98. Can I get a train to Dublin? Yes, trains run almost every hour and take about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
99. Is Limerick a good “base” for the Wild Atlantic Way? Excellent. It’s more affordable than Galway and centrally located between Kerry and Clare.
100. Why should I visit Limerick? For the authentic, non-touristy Irish city experience, the incredible sporting passion, and the historic medieval core.