Set on a picturesque island bound by the Shannon and Abbey rivers, Limerick is a culturally rich city in Ireland’s Munster province. It centres around an atmospheric old town packed with centuries-old churches and Georgian buildings and boasts a collection of outstanding museums and art galleries.
Things to do in Limerick
Dominating Limerick’s old town is St. Mary’s Cathedral, which has occupied the site since 1168. Marvel at the West Doorway before stepping inside to see the cathedral’s medieval floor tiles and Gothic-style stained glass windows. A short walk from St. Mary’s Cathedral is St. John’s Cathedral, which boasts the highest church spire in Ireland and overlooks a square lined with Georgian townhouses.
One of Limerick’s most photographed landmarks is King John’s Castle, which was constructed in the 13th century on the banks of the River Shannon. It is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe, with a pentagonal fortress framed by three round towers and a two-story gatehouse. Learn about the remains of a Viking settlement that were uncovered here in 1900 and delve into Irish history in the exhibition rooms.
For a cultural fix, head to the Limerick City Gallery of Art, which occupies a Romanesque-style former library that was funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. It houses an impressive collection of Irish artwork dating from the 18th to 21st centuries, as well as the Michael O'Connor International Poster Collection and the National Collection of Contemporary Drawing.
Getting around Limerick
Shannon Airport is a 30-minute drive from the centre of Limerick and has flights to destinations across Europe and North America. Trains connect to Limerick Colbert railway station and buses travel throughout the city. Limerick’s old town is ideally explored on foot.