- Must visit
King John's Castle Visitor Centre
Interactive museum inside a medieval castle covering sieges, archaeology, and city history, with strong displays for first-time visitors.
Flights to Limerick land at Shannon International Airport, the closest airport to Ireland’s third biggest city. Flights arrive here from a number of UK and US cities as well as from some additional European airports in Spain, Portugal and Poland. From the UK, flights take approximately one and a half hours to Limerick (Shannon) and from the East Coast of the USA they take around six to seven hours. Conveniently, passengers can reach Limerick in under an hour from the airport using public transport.
Visitors to Limerick travelling by air will arrive at Shannon International Airport, the only airport within close proximity to the city. This airport is located 15 miles northwest of Limerick, near to the town of Shannon in County Clare. A bus service from Bus Éireann connects the city of Limerick with Shannon Airport with a journey time of around 50 minutes.
Flights to the city of Limerick land at Shannon Airport. This includes flights from the UK and also from other European cities such as Faro (Portugal), Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza and Krakow (Poland). European flights are operated by Aer Lingus, Ryanair and British Airways. Flights to Limerick from US destinations such as New York, Boston and Philadelphia are also operated by Aer Lingus as well as by American Airways, Delta and United.
Limerick is located in the west of Ireland, which means getting a plane to Limerick from the UK is a much quicker option than taking a ferry followed by a train. With daily arrivals from Edinburgh, London and Manchester as well as numerous US cities, flying direct to Shannon Airport is the fastest and most convenient travel option for many visitors.
In addition to the famous historical attractions in the city, visitors should take the time to visit the 'real' Limerick. This includes shopping at the weekly milk and potato markets as well as catching a rugby game at Thomond Park. Many of the major attractions are navigable on foot, although an excellent bus system and a low cost city-wide rental bike scheme means there’s plenty of ways to get around Limerick. A truly unique way to see the city is to take a horse-drawn carriage tour.
Discover the best of Limerick — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Limerick trip today.
Interactive museum inside a medieval castle covering sieges, archaeology, and city history, with strong displays for first-time visitors.
Compact city museum presenting local archaeology, civic history, and changing exhibitions in the heart of Georgian Limerick.
Contemporary art gallery with Irish and international exhibitions, artist-led projects, and a strong focus on current visual culture.
Historic island district where medieval Limerick developed, home to lanes, cathedral precincts, and major heritage sites.
Regenerated riverside quarter with modern architecture, pedestrian routes, public art, and good views across the Shannon.
Landscaped city-centre park with memorials, mature trees, and open lawns, useful for a pause between nearby cultural sights.
Thick potato mash with butter and spring onions. A classic Irish comfort dish, widely eaten in the Shannon region and common with meat or bacon.
Creamy mashed potatoes blended with kale or cabbage and butter. A traditional Irish staple, especially popular in colder months and with roast meats.
Cubes of lamb or mutton slowly cooked with potatoes, onions and herbs. It is one of Ireland’s best-known traditional dishes and a hearty pub favourite.
Refined restaurant in Adare Manor serving modern Irish cooking in elegant surroundings, suited to a special meal near Limerick.
Well-regarded contemporary Irish restaurant known for seasonal local produce, polished cooking and a smart but relaxed city-centre setting.
Stylish steak and seafood restaurant by the river, popular for Irish beef, cocktails and an upbeat atmosphere near the city centre.
Moderate for Ireland. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Dublin, but tourist stays still add up. Buses are affordable, while central accommodation costs more in peak periods.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 10% for good service if not already added. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Café tipping is not expected.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need