What is the fastest way to get from Dublin to Limerick?
The train is the fastest way to get from Dublin to Limerick. Irish Rail offers direct services between the cities in only 1 hour and 58 minutes. However, the longest duration is 2 hours and 47 minutes. So check the timetable on your departure date to find a quick carriage.
Is Limerick in Ireland worth visiting?
Limerick is one of Europe's most underrated destinations, so it's worth visiting. The lack of tourists compared to Dublin or Galway allows you to appreciate an Irish town's authentic flavors and cultures. The historical landmarks and vast museum scene will amuse you during the day, while the traditional Irish bars will provide entertainment at night.
What is the easiest way to get from Dublin to Limerick?
Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the easiest way to get from Dublin to Limerick. You decide when you want your professional driver to collect you at your hotel and drop you off directly at your new one in Limerick. They will even manage any luggage you may be traveling with.
Is Limerick cheaper than Dublin?
Limerick is almost 25% cheaper to visit than Dublin. The average traveler spends around $118 daily in Limerick, compared to $156 in Dublin. Although Limerick is more affordable than Dublin, it's not a budget-friendly destination. Combining accommodation, food, drinks, and transportation, Limerick is Europe's 21st most expensive city, more costly than Venice and Munich!
How far is it from Dublin Airport to Limerick?
The shortest road distance from Dublin Airport to Limerick is 130 miles, which can take only 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete when driving safely. However, leaving the capital during rush hour traffic can drastically increase the duration. Avoid traveling from 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-7:00 PM to ensure you don't waste valuable vacation time stuck in gridlock.
How long is the train from Dublin to Limerick?
The shortest train ride from Dublin to Limerick takes 1 hour and 58 minutes. The average duration is 2 hours and 17 minutes, with the longest service taking 2 hours and 47 minutes. Check IrishRail's website for a timetable and live departure schedule on the day of your travels.
A car trip across the Republic of Ireland from Dublin to Limerick should be on every travel enthusiast's bucket list. In 2 hours and 10 minutes, you'll pass by dense ash tree woodlands, sprawling farmyards home to roaming sheep, and medieval towers hidden among craggy hills wrapped up in a sea of green.
But first, you must depart the hustle and bustle of the capital's Georgian streets in Ireland's Ancient East. Then, you can make your way onto the streamlined lanes of the M7 highway, flanked by lush greenery you can vividly picture when thinking of the nation's vast countryside.
In the island's heartlands, numerous historical relics, including manors and majestic cathedrals, nestle between the shrubbery lining the meadows just off the high-speed motorway. But the further west you venture, the more the mountains begin to climb, and the panoramic views become even more picturesque.
Time flies when you're having fun. So before you know it, you'll find yourself in Ireland's third-largest city, with King John's Castle greeting you upon arrival.
The only downside to the trip from Dublin to Limerick is trying to keep your eyes on the road and off the unspoiled beauty. So, we created this in-depth guide explaining how to let someone else drive while you admire the vistas and possibly explore en route!
About Limerick
After an action-packed drive from Dublin to Limerick, you'll travel from the political capital to Ireland's third-largest city. Almost 210,000 people live here along the River Shannon, in the north of the province of Munster but in the nation's southwest. This location along a river, less than 50 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, has been vital for its establishment and success.
Early Limerick
Vikings were the first settlers in modern-day Limerick due to its rich fishing waters and strategic position near waterways, allowing for trade with other Viking towns. However, like the rest of Ireland, the Normans seized control of Limerick in the late 12th century. They built many notable buildings during this period, such as King John's Castle, which still stands.
The 17th century was arguably Limerick's darkest period. In under 50 years, the city experienced four sieges during the Cromwelian conquest. Although Limerick encountered hurdles until the 21st century, the development of social housing, universities, and libraries from 1800 to 2000 propelled it into a modern city today.
Modern Limerick
As of 2024, Limerick is a modern urban center that holds its historical roots close to its heart. It's a treasure trove of churches, cathedrals, and forts. You can step into any of its medieval settings and transport yourself back hundreds of years. Its thriving museum scene combines a wealth of stories and artifacts. So you can learn about its rich past under one roof.
However, most people recognize Limerick for its lively personality. It's the home of numerous top sports clubs, like Munster Rugby, two-time European champions. Weekend farmers markets and year-round festivals, including the Riverfest and St. Patrick's Day Festival, are a staple in the locals' ways of life.
Languages: English and Irish
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Climate: mild temperate oceanic
Time zone: GMT
Plug type: G
Fun fact: JFK's family came from County Limerick!
From Dublin to Limerick: travel tips
Whether you travel from Dublin to Limerick via car, bus, or train, a few tips can enhance your experience. Luckily, our local experts and drivers wish to share them with you!
Raindrops keep falling on your head
You probably know that Ireland is one of Europe's rainiest countries. However, you might not know that the weather can change instantly and that you can experience all four seasons in one day.
The west of Ireland receives the most rainfall. So pack a light bag with an umbrella, rain ponchos, and waterproof clothing, even if it is blue skies in Dublin.
Experience life as royalty
Ireland is home to over 30,000 castles and ruins, not to mention lavish mansions or grand estates. So you're never far from a setting once home to royalty.
Luckily, fortresses and manors litter the road from Dublin to Limerick, where you can experience life as a king in ancient Ireland. Castletown House and Nenagh Castle are arguably the most fascinating of these settings you can visit en route!
Hit the road early
Dublin is Europe's 4th most traffic-congested city. So leaving the region early, but after the rush hour traffic from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM is vital.
Leaving early also allows you to explore towns or refuel with a pint of Guinness on the road, as many attractions close by 6:00 PM. Finally, if you travel after sunset, you can't admire the breathtaking views of rural Ireland.
How to get from Dublin to Limerick
With a drive time of 2 hours and 10 minutes, a distance of 128 miles, and three modes of transportation, getting from Dublin to Limerick is a relatively straightforward venture. But which one you should spend your hard-earned cash on depends on your travel preferences!
Trains from Dublin to Limerick
The train is the best mode of transport if you're traveling in Europe on a budget. It's the cheapest way to travel from Dublin to Limerick, with IrishRail offering affordable seats between the cities.
You can reserve a spot online or at Dublin Heuston Station. From here, you'll book a ticket to Limerick Colbert Station. Although a handful of direct services travel daily, most require an easy transfer at Limerick Junction Station.
Cheapest train ticket price: $16.50 (тВм15)
Average train ticket price: $23 (тВм21)
Fastest train duration: 1 hour and 58 minutes
Longest train duration: 2 hours and 47 minutes
First train departure: 6 AM
Last train departure: 9 PM
Buses from Dublin to Limerick
Due to the more extensive duration, higher fees, and less comfort, the bus isn't as demanding as the train when transferring from Dublin to Limerick. However, numerous direct daily connections operate at low prices.
Citylink runs from Limerick to Dublin Airport, but Dublin Coach is the primary firm that travels directly between the downtown areas. Buses depart from Burgh Quay along the Liffey River and arrive at Arthur's Quay in Limerick. Although the stops are marked, there are no bus shelters.
Average bus ticket price: $17.50 (тВм16)
Fastest bus duration: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Longest bus duration: 3 hours
First bus departure: 6:15 AM
Last bus departure: 11:45 PM
Daytrip from Dublin to Limerick
Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the best means of transportation from Dublin to Limerick if you prioritize convenience, comfort, or flexibility. Our 24/7 schedule allows you to travel directly from your hotel in the capital to your new one down south at a time that best suits you. There's no need to set an early alarm while on vacation or search for the bus timetable to reach your departure point.
Here at Daytrip, we also have another ace up our sleeves. We're not just an ordinary shuttle service. We allow you to experience the exciting attractions sandwiched between Dublin and Limerick and provide a local driver with extensive local knowledge.
You'd speed by Kildare Cathedral if you opted for public transport. But with our unique sightseeing package, you can explore Ireland's second-tallest round town. You can visit numerous other sites, such as the Irish National Stud and Gardens, St. Flanagan's Cathedral, and the rocky ruins of Dunamase, a Celtic fortification.
Seats from: $82 (тВм75)
Door-to-door Duration: 2 hours and 10 minutes
English-speaking driver
Clean, sanitized, smoke-free vehicle
Equipped for pets, kids, groups, or those with limited mobility
24/7 customer service
Free cancellation 24 hours before departing
Things to do when you get to Limerick
Few people have heard of Munster's second-largest city. Yet, it attracts over 603,000 international visitors annually. If you're one of the lucky travelers going from Dublin to Limerick, you'll be just as surprised as the others when you discover that you'll have a jam-packed travel itinerary!
Visit the Hunt Museum
Art and history enthusiasts will find the Hunt Museum a paradise for fascinating artifacts. The gallery is in a former customs house, where its collection spans several thousand years and includes works by famous artists such as Picasso, Renoir, and Yeats.
The diverse collection ranges from ancient Greek and Roman objects to medieval Christian artifacts and fine examples of Celtic art. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events. So you can keep returning and find something new to discover!
Wander through the Milk Market
There's only one place to go if you want to blend in with the locals and sample the original flavors of Ireland: Limerick's Milk Market!
This historical market has been selling products to locals and visitors from afar since the 1850s. Today, vendors still serve some of the freshest and most mouthwatering products, from cheeses to chocolates produced a stone's throw from the city. The setting has also recently undergone a facelift with its stylish covered dome.
Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most visited attraction, and for good reason. Ridges plug 214 meters above the ice-cold waters, providing spectacular views that stretch to the Aran Islands and Galway Bay. The scenery, fragrant aromas, taste of the salt air, the sound of waves crashing under your feet, and the feeling of adventure will live long into your memories!
Although situated in County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are an easy day trip from Limerick City. You can get from downtown to this UNESCO Geopark in just 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Explore King John's Castle
King John's Castle is the crown jewel in Limerick's plethora of things to do. This dominating structure has stood confidently over the River Shannon since the 1200s. Fortunately, you can roam its well-preserved walls today and learn about the tales of knights and rebellious natives dating back eight centuries.
You'll constantly learn about history, climbing its looming towers and roaming its grand courtyards while feeling like a modern Victorian explorer.
When is the best time to visit Limerick?
Spring or fall is primarily the best time to travel in Europe. But summer is the best time to book a Dublin to Limerick transfer due to the climate and lack of tourist crowds.
The summer months of June, July, and August are Ireland's hottest. The average daily high temperature of 61┬░ Fahrenheit is warm enough to sip a pint of Guinness in an outdoor beer garden or participate in walking tours during the daytime.
Although summer is Limerick's peak tourism season, the city receives few groups. You don't have to worry about bottlenecks in the historic lanes or the regional museums. Plenty of concerts, events, and even hurling, Ireland's most beloved sport and a UNESCO-recognized part of Irish culture, occur during this period, creating a carnival atmosphere around town!
The first and largest manor of its kind in Ireland, this elegant estate immerses visitors in the beauty of days gone by.┬аPrincipal Palladium┬а
Kildare Cathedral
This medieval cathedral and the second-tallest round tower in Ireland offer a look at several centuries worth of art and architecture.┬аA Towering Achievement┬а
Irish National Stud and Gardens
Surrounded by serene gardens, the legacy of Irish horse racing lives on at the only stud farm open to the public.┬аHorsiculture┬а
Dunamase
Destroyed multiple times, this once mighty medieval castle is now an atmospheric ruin.┬аA Slightly Rocky History┬а
Nenagh Castle
This ruined medieval castle boasts IrelandтАЩs finest cylindrical keep.┬аThe Best Around┬а
St Flannan's Cathedral
Housing some exceptional stonework, this medieval cathedral preserves the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture.┬аStone in Transition┬а
тАЬWe used daytrip for a transfer from our Airbnb in Limerick to our hotel in Dublin. Our driver, Parampal arrived promptly at 8am, pack all of our luggage and was a pleasure to visit with along the drive. We also worked out a stop a castle along the way!тАЭ
