Located in the province of Munster, Limerick is one of the largest cities in the Republic of Ireland.
Known for its medieval history and Georgian architecture, the city sits on the banks of the River Shannon, the longest river in Ireland. Its location and rich cultural offerings mean that Limerick is a great city for everything from museums to outdoor activities. And even if you don’t want to play it yourself, you can certainly enjoy a game of rugby or pitches, two sports for which the city is especially known.
From visiting the castle to shopping at Ireland’s best farmers market, Limerick has plenty to do and we’ve picked the 12 best.
01
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Stroll through the royal rooms of King John’s castle
Direction
Nicholas St , Limerick , IrlandaGet directions
Telephone
+353 61 360 788
Web
Visit the website
Situated majestically on the banks of the River Shannon in the heart of Limerick, King John Castle has been part of the city’s landscape since its construction in 1200. The castle was built on a previous Viking settlement dating back to the 9th century. Stone walls and towers that can be seen today were built during Norman times. It is believed to be one of the best preserved castles of the time in all of Europe. Today there is a modern visitor center with interactive exhibits, as well as a small cafe serving drinks and snacks overlooking the castle’s internal courtyard.
02
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Kayak down the Shannon
The River Shannon runs through the heart of Limerick, but most people just use the bridges to cross its banks. For a truly unique Limerick experience, step into the water to see the city from a different angle. You can join a kayak tour to paddle downstream as you see sights like King Juan’s Castle, learn facts about the area, and get some exercise while you’re in it.
03
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Browse the collection at the Hunt Museum
Direction
Customs, Rutland St, Limerick, V94 EV8A, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 61 312 833
Web
Visit the website
John and Gertrude Hunt were antique dealers by trade, but their love of quirky and unique pieces meant that they managed to build a great personal collection of art and antiques during their lives. Today, the collection of 2,500 artifacts, including drawings by Picasso and works by Renoir, is on display inside the 18th-century Limerick Customs House. The museum offers free tours included in the price of admission to help you navigate the extensive collection.
04
of 12
Join a medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle
Direction
Castillo de Bunratty, Bunratty West, Co. Clare, IrelandGet directions
Technically just across the county line in Co. Clare, Bunratty Castle is just a 15 minute drive from the heart of Limerick City. Ireland is full of castles, but this medieval dream is the best restored of all. Get a taste of what life in the castle would be like by sitting down to join the Earl of Thomond (and all his costumed staff) for a four-course dinner in the castle halls. Kids will also love the Bunratty Folk Park next door, which recreates a 19th century Irish village with actors explaining the history behind the traditions the park tries to preserve.
05
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Experience Ancient Ireland at Grange Stone Circle
Direction
Grange, Lough Gur, Co. Limerick , IrelandGet directions
Web
Visit the website
The Grange Stone Circle in Lough Gur is located outside of Limerick City and is worth the short drive to see one of Ireland’s largest stone circles. The mysterious ancient site dates from the Neolithic and is in perfect condition. It is made up of 113 large stones, the largest of which weighs about 40 tons. Lake Lough Gur is surrounded by several other megalithic monuments, but the Grange is the most impressive of all.
06
of 12
Shop at the milk market
Direction
The Milk Market, Limerick, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 61 214 782
Web
Visit the website
Bringing back the Limerick tradition of fresh markets, the Milk Market is a great shopping extravaganza. Come support local businesses and shop for homegrown produce, fresh baked goods, Irish cheese, hot food, and even vintage clothing. Housed within a historic building, the Milk Market is considered one of the best farmers markets in all of Ireland and is the perfect stop for the fun atmosphere and local delicacies, especially on Saturday mornings.
07
of 12
Remember the story in the treaty stone
Direction
Limerick , Co. Limerick , IrlandaGet directions
This pedestal-set stone is one of Limerick’s most iconic landmarks. Found along the river, the landmark commemorates the 1691 Treaty of Limerick, which ended the bloody war of Williamie. The end of the war was particularly felt in Limerick, which had been controlled by Jacobite forces, but then came under siege from August to October 1691. When the Jacobites and William of Orange’s supporters finally agreed to a treaty, reportedly , was signed on this piece of limestone oddly shaped.
08
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Stop for tea at Adare Manor
Direction
Adare, Co. Limerick , V94 W8WR , IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 61 605 200
Web
Visit the website
Adare is one of the most charming towns in County Limerick and is only a 20 minute drive from the city center. The little streets are lined with thatched roof houses, but the true star of the village is the majestic Adare Manor. The mansion, one of Ireland’s finest castle hotels, was first built by the 2nd Earl of Dunraven in the 1830s and is surrounded by woodland and garden paths. Now a five-star hotel, Adare Manor is a dream place for a quiet afternoon tea with buttery scones and creative, delicate desserts.
09
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Listen to live music at the Locke Bar
Direction
3 George’s Quay, Limerick, V94 K8KX, IrelandGet directions
Telephone
+353 61 413 733
Web
Visit the website
After the sun sets on a day of sightseeing in Limerick, head to the lively Locke Bar for an evening of traditional Irish music. The popular bar has live music seven days a week and Irish dancing to accompany it. The Locke Bar also serves excellent pub food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, all just a short walk from King John’s Castle in the center of town.
10
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Catch a GAA or Rugby match
Limerick is a great sports city and no trip to the city would be complete without seeing one of the teams compete. It is Ireland’s most famous city for rugby, and the movement known as Garryowen was invented here. If you are a fan of the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association), the local pitching team (an Irish field sport) also won the Irish Championship in 2018.
eleven
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Warming up on Jack’s Mondays
Direction
Limerick , Co. Limerick , IrlandaGet directions
Telephone
+353 61 279 296
Web
Visit the website
Often voted the best coffee by Limerick locals, this casual restaurant is known for its unbeatable views. On sunny days there is outdoor seating with views of Shannon Castle and King John, but it remains a favorite on rainy days for its simple and satisfying home cooking. Also a cafe, you can stop here to catch your breath after exploring Limerick and enjoying one of their delicious hot chocolates loaded with marshmallows.
12
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Walk the river
In good weather, the best way to see Limerick is to explore the area along the coast. To experience the updated routes and special conservation area, start at the Guinness Bridge and follow the curves in the river to the boathouse at the University of Limerick. Then continue your outdoor exploration by joining local fitness lovers on a popular hike that crosses all three bridges in central Limerick. The route starts at Arthur’s Quay Park and goes through the city, passing many of the iconic landmarks mentioned on this list!
