Galway and Limerick are the two largest cities in West-Central Ireland which always sparks the debate of which one is better to visit. Here is the ultimate guide to help you decide whether to visit Galway or Limerick.
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Galway or Limerick Overview
Galway
Galway is the 4th largest city in Ireland with just over 80,000 residents living in the city proper. The city is known for having a vibrant Irish culture and it is actually the 2020 European Capital of Culture. People are drawn to always because it has one of, if not the best Irish Cultures in all of Ireland.
There is also a thriving art scene in Galway which will become apparent if you visit. Galway is a university city, with 1/4th of the population being university students. Galway is also known for being the “festival capital of Ireland“, holding over 100 festivals including its most famous, the Galway Arts Festival.
Limerick
Limerick is the third most populous city in the country with roughly 95,000 people living here. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Limerick was considered to be the most beautiful city in Ireland but its modern form has only a few structures dating back to medieval times. Most of today’s city was built after the 18th century and the riverfront is lined with impressive contemporary architecture.
One of the most iconic places in Limerick is Kings John’s Castle which is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in all of Europe. Limerick is also a great place to go shopping with the Crescent Shopping Center being the largest shopping center outside of Dublin.
Things to See
Galway
The Galway Cathedral was built in 1965 making it one of the newest large cathedrals built in Europe.
Eyre Square, also known as John F. Kennedy Square, is the main public square in Galway.
The National University of Ireland Galway is a top-ranked Irish university that is in the top 1% of the world and has a beautiful campus.
Shop Street is the main shopping street in Galway.
Galway Harbor is one of the best places in the city to explore.
Limerick
King John’s Castle is a 13th-century fortress, known for being extremely well-preserved.
St. John’s Cathedral is the tallest building in Limerick.
The Quay is one of the nicest spots on the river to explore.
St. Mary’s Cathedral is the oldest building that is still in use in Limerick.
Food
Galway
When visiting Galway, the best dish you can try is Irish Stew. This meal is slow-cooked with some form of hard meat, as well as hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Goat meat is traditionally used, but mutton or lamb are common, as well. Fish and chips is always a safe option when you visit Galway. Seafood chowder is also a classic dish in Galway.
Limerick
Limerick is another Irish city where typical dishes like Irish stew is quite popular. The city was once known around the world for producing excellent ham. The area around Limerick is one of the biggest agricultural-producing areas in the country and Limerick has been a hub for delightful cheeses for many years. Stopping at the Milk Market is a must when you visit Limerick, especially if you want to get a “taste” for the city.
Getting Around
Galway
Galway is not a huge city which makes it extremely easy to get around, especially when walking. You can walk to most of the city’s attractions within a 10 or 20-minute walk. The city’s public transportation revolves around a network of buses. Renting a bike would be the fastest way to see the city and may be your best option if you have limited time to explore.
Limerick
Limerick is similar to Galway in the fact that you can walk to almost all of the city’s attractions on foot. Visit the city website for a map of the best routes to walk when you’re here. If you are planning on visiting the University of Limerick, you will want to take public transportation. Hop on the network of buses to get yourself wherever you need to go.
Nightlife
Galway
For being a smaller city, Galway holds its own in regard to its nightlife. Since the city’s population is 1/4th university students, you can expect there to be some pretty lively establishments, especially during the weeknights. As you would expect, most of the nightlife is concentrated in the city center. You will want to start your night at a traditional bar or pub-like Murphys or The Dáil Bar. If you want more of a clubbing atmosphere, you should head to Halo or Electric.
Limerick
Limerick is another Irish city with an abundance of university students, meaning the nightlife here is quite lively. Most of the nightlife can be found right in the heart of the city which means you will have plenty of options to try. You can explore one of the many traditional pubs or you dance the night away at one of the nightclubs. Icon and Angel Lane are solid bets for a clubbing experience. Nancy Blake’s and Costellos are two of the best places to go for a night out because of their uniqueness.
Day Trips
Galway
The Cliffs of Moher are arguably Ireland’s most iconic sight to see.
Aran Islands is a group of small islands that you can take a ferry to from Galway.
Kylemore Abbey is located on the bank of Polacapall Lough, to the northwest of Galway.
Limerick
Cliffs of Moher is one of the most famous places in Ireland.
Banna Strand Beach is a long, sprawling beach 1.5 hours from Limerick.
Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry make up one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions.
If you want to willing to take a two or three-day trip it might be worth considering visiting Cork or Dublin from either of these two cities.
Overall
Galway and Limerick are just over an hour’s drive from each other which might make the decision on which to visit much tougher. If you are interested in traditional Irish culture, there is no city better than Galway. If you are interested in a city with a more contemporary vibe, you should visit Limerick. Keep in mind that the cities are close enough that you should consider visiting both if time allows.
If you are still unsure about which city in this region to visit take a look at Dublin or Cork, Galway or Cork, and Dublin or Galway.