County Limerick Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and tips for traveling to County Limerick, Ireland.


County Limerick is one of the most picturesque and charming regions in Ireland. Nestled in the heart of the Shannon Region, it is known for its beautiful landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family looking for an adventure, County Limerick has something for everyone. Here is a comprehensive tour guide to help you explore the best of what this stunning destination has to offer.

Introduction to County Limerick

Located in the southwest of Ireland, County Limerick is part of the province of Munster. It is bordered by County Kerry to the west, County Cork to the south, County Tipperary to the east, and County Clare to the north. This region is steeped in history and culture, with castles, museums, and art galleries that shed light on its rich heritage. County Limerick is also known for its awe-inspiring landscapes, including the Shannon Estuary, the River Shannon, and the Ballyhoura Mountains.

List of Places to Visit in County Limerick

There are plenty of things to see and do in County Limerick. Here is a list of the top attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • King John’s Castle: Located in Limerick City, this medieval fortress dates back to the 13th century and offers a glimpse into the city’s past.

  • Limerick City Gallery of Art: Known for its impressive collection of contemporary and traditional artworks, this gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers.

  • Adare Heritage Centre: This cultural center in the picturesque village of Adare showcases the history and traditions of the region.

  • Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum: This museum tells the story of the flying boats that once flew from Foynes to North America.

Natural Attractions of County Limerick: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ballyhoura Mountains: This mountain range offers some of the most stunning hiking trails in Ireland, with panoramic views of the rolling hills and green meadows.

  • Lough Gur: This lake is surrounded by lush green hills and is home to prehistoric ruins, including a neolithic stone circle.

  • Curraghchase Forest Park: This park is ideal for hiking and features beautiful woodland trails and picnic areas.

  • Loop Head Peninsula: This scenic peninsula is known for its rugged coastline and is perfect for a day trip from Limerick City.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Limerick

County Limerick is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Ballyhoura Way: This hiking trail covers 89km of the Ballyhoura Mountains and takes you through stunning scenery and picturesque villages.

  • Lough Gur Loop Walk: This 10km hiking trail offers some of the most breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the lake.

  • Great Southern Trail: This cycling route covers 40km of countryside and takes you past some of the most picturesque towns in County Limerick.

Best Things to Do in County Limerick: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun and exciting activities to enjoy in County Limerick. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Limerick Food Tour: This walking tour takes you through the city’s vibrant food scene, with stops at local restaurants, cafes, and markets.

  • Horseback Riding: There are several equestrian centers in the region that offer horseback riding lessons and trail rides.

  • River Shannon Cruise: Take a leisurely cruise along the River Shannon and admire the beautiful scenery.

  • Traditional Irish Music Session: Enjoy a night of live music at one of the many pubs in County Limerick.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Limerick

If you’re planning a week-long trip to County Limerick, here is an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Arrive in Limerick City, visit King John’s Castle and the Limerick City Gallery of Art.

Day 2: Explore the picturesque village of Adare, visit the Adare Heritage Centre, and enjoy a horseback riding lesson.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Loop Head Peninsula, enjoy a picnic on the beach, and go hiking along the cliff tops.

Day 4: Visit Curraghchase Forest Park, go hiking, and have a picnic lunch.

Day 5: Take a river Shannon cruise, visit Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, and enjoy a traditional Irish music session in the evening.

Day 6: Explore the Ballyhoura Way hiking trail, enjoy a picnic lunch, and go biking along the Great Southern Trail.

Day 7: Visit Lough Gur, see the prehistoric ruins, and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Food and Drink Scene of County Limerick

County Limerick is known for its delicious cuisine and traditional Irish pubs. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Irish Stew: This hearty lamb stew is a staple dish in Ireland and is usually served with potatoes and thick slices of bread.

  • Limerick Ham: This cured ham is made from locally sourced pork and is a popular ingredient in traditional Irish dishes.

  • Barmbrack: This sweet, fruity bread is often served with tea and is a popular snack in County Limerick.

Local Beverages

  • Guinness: This iconic Irish beer is famous around the world and is best enjoyed in a cozy pub in Limerick City.

  • Irish Whiskey: County Limerick has a rich history of whiskey production, and visiting a local distillery is a must-do activity for whiskey lovers.

Where to Stay in County Limerick: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in County Limerick, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Savoy Hotel: Located in the heart of Limerick City, this hotel offers luxurious rooms and excellent amenities.

  • Adare Manor: This five-star hotel is located in a historic manor house and offers a luxurious stay in a picturesque setting.

  • Abbeyville B&B: This guesthouse in Adare offers comfortable and affordable accommodation in a charming location.

What to Buy in County Limerick: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

County Limerick is known for its locally made crafts and artisanal products. Here are some of the best souvenirs to bring home:

  • Arts and crafts: Local artists and craftspeople create beautiful pottery, woodwork, and textiles that make for unique souvenirs.

  • Irish Whiskey and Beer: Bring home a few bottles of locally produced whiskey or beer to share with friends and family.

  • Baked Goods: County Limerick is known for its delicious cakes, bread, and pastries, which make for great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of County Limerick

Ireland has a rich cultural heritage, and County Limerick is no exception. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to participate in local customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • The Irish Language: Irish is the official language of Ireland, although English is widely spoken. You may come across signs and menus in Irish, which adds to the country’s unique character.

  • Irish Music and Dance: Traditional Irish music is an integral part of the culture, and visitors can enjoy live music sessions in pubs throughout County Limerick. Irish dancing is also popular, and visitors can attend shows featuring dancers in colorful costumes.

Best Time to Visit County Limerick

County Limerick can be visited year-round, although the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is mild and sunny. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are also good times to visit, as the crowds are smaller, and the landscape is at its most colorful.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Limerick

Here are some things to keep in mind during your visit to County Limerick:

Do:

  • Try the Local Cuisine: County Limerick has a rich culinary scene, and trying the local dishes is a must-do activity.

  • Learn About the History and Culture: County Limerick is steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and landmarks to explore.

  • Take Part in Local Customs: The locals are friendly and welcoming, and participating in local customs and traditions is a great way to experience Irish culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Ireland is famous for its pristine countryside, and visitors should take care to dispose of their trash properly.

  • Overindulge in Alcohol: While Irish pubs are a great place to enjoy a pint, visitors should drink responsibly and not overindulge.

  • Disrespect the Local Culture: Visitors to County Limerick should be respectful of local customs and traditions and not engage in behaviors that are considered offensive.

Safety and Health

County Limerick is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. Visitors should take standard precautions such as safeguarding valuables and not leaving belongings unattended. The health system in Ireland is of a high standard, and visitors should have travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to County Limerick: Transportation Options and Logistics

County Limerick is well-connected to the rest of Ireland by road, rail, and air. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near County Limerick

  • Shannon Airport: Located just 30 minutes from Limerick City, this airport is served by major airlines and offers connections to destinations throughout Ireland and Europe.

  • Cork Airport: This airport is located about 1.5 hours south of Limerick City and offers connections to destinations throughout Ireland and Europe.

Bus Stations Near County Limerick

  • Limerick Bus Station: This bus station is located in the city center and offers connections to destinations throughout Ireland.

  • Cork Bus Station: This bus station is located in the heart of Cork City and offers connections to destinations throughout Ireland.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in Limerick City and explore County Limerick at their own pace.

  • Private Transfers: Private transportation options such as taxis and chauffeur services are also available.

How to Get Around in County Limerick

The best way to explore County Limerick is by car or bicycle. Visitors can rent a car from the airport or in Limerick City, or rent a bicycle to explore the countryside. There are also bus and train connections between major towns and cities in the region.

Where to Go Next from County Limerick: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

County Limerick is located in the heart of the Shannon Region, making it an ideal base for exploring other destinations in Ireland. Here are some nearby places to consider:

  • Cliffs of Moher: Located in County Clare, these iconic cliffs offer some of the most breathtaking views in Ireland.

  • Ring of Kerry: This scenic route takes you through some of the most picturesque towns and villages in County Kerry.

  • Killarney National Park: This national park is located in County Kerry and offers stunning hiking trails and beautiful landscapes.

Conclusion

County Limerick is a charming and picturesque destination that offers something for everyone. From the rich cultural heritage to the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, this region has it all. We hope this comprehensive tour guide helps you plan a memorable trip to County Limerick.

Limerick Limerick In 1922 a monster was seen in Limerick Docks In 1922 a monster was seen in Limerick Docks Desmond Castle in Adare Desmond Castle in Adare Grange stone circle by Lough Gur Grange stone circle by Lough Gur Tennyson claimed to see her at Curraghchase Tennyson claimed to see her at Curraghchase Limerick racecourse Limerick racecourse


    Limerick