If you’re looking for where to stay in Limerick, I can help you narrow it down. I’ve been to the city three times now and know it pretty well. My husband studied at the University of Limerick, so my first visit was during our honeymoon when we stopped to see friends. We came back a few years later for a wedding at the Limerick Strand Hotel on the River Shannon. Then, more recently, we brought the kids on their first trip abroad, spending a few days at King John’s Castle and exploring the area around the city center.
Limerick is smaller than Dublin or Cork, but it has real character and several distinct neighborhoods worth knowing about before you book. Where you stay makes a big difference, depending on whether you want to be in the middle of everything or somewhere quieter with easy access to the center. When I was in my 20s, I was all about being near the bars and nightlife. Now, I prefer to be farther away from the city and quieter.
The River Shannon runs through the city, dividing it into distinct areas. The city center lies south of the river and is where most of the hotels, restaurants, pubs, and tourist attractions are concentrated. I’ve always stayed in the city center and would recommend it for first-time visitors.
Here are the six best neighborhoods in Limerick, along with where to stay in each.
Tips for Deciding Where to Stay in Limerick
Whether you’re planning a road trip in Ireland, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, Limerick is a great destination to add to your itinerary. From arts and history to sports, fine dining, and shopping, this lively city offers something for everyone.
Limerick is a walkable town, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you want to explore further away from the bustling city center, public transport is well-connected, convenient, and reliable, making it easy to get from one exciting place to the next.
When it comes to places to stay, Limerick has many charming neighborhoods to choose from when visiting. You’ll find that each area has its own unique flavor, attractions, and atmosphere. So, if you’re trying to decide where to stay during your visit, here are a few things to take into consideration:
- Keep your accommodation budget in mind
- Consider your preferred mode of transportation
- Think about what amenities you need close by
Limerick’s neighborhoods are brimming with Irish hospitality; whichever area you choose, you’ll feel right at home. And to help you out, I’ve rounded up some of the best places to stay in Limerick.
Map of Places to Stay in Limerick
6 Best Neighborhoods in Limerick to Stay In
To help you make a decision, here are 6 of my favorite neighborhoods in Limerick City. The list includes accommodation options and points of interest in each area.
1. Limerick City Center
The city center is the best base for most visitors. You’ll be within walking distance of King John’s Castle, the Hunt Museum, the Milk Market, and most of the good restaurants and pubs. The River Shannon runs right through it, and a Limerick City Walking Tour is worth doing on your first day to get your bearings. It gets noisy on weekends, and hotel prices are higher here than in the outer neighborhoods, but the convenience is hard to beat. I always stay here because it’s so easy to walk around.
Pros of Staying in Limerick City Center
- Within walking distance of the main attractions
- Best access to public transport
- Lively pub and restaurant scene
Cons of Staying in Limerick City Center
- The highest hotel prices in the city
- Can be noisy on weekend nights
- Busy and crowded in peak season
Where to Stay in Limerick City Center
Limerick City Hotel – Central location with River Shannon views and an on-site bar. Good option if you want to walk everywhere.
George Limerick Hotel – Boutique hotel on O’Connell Street with a lively restaurant downstairs. Good choice if you want somewhere with more character than a chain.
The Savoy Hotel – One of the most upscale options in Limerick, right in the heart of the city center. Good restaurant and bar on site.
Things to Do in Limerick City Center
- King John’s Castle
- The Milk Market
- Hunt Museum
- Limerick Museum
- People’s Park
Taking a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher? Be sure to read these Cliffs of Moher tips first.
2. Ennis Road
Ennis Road is a quieter, slightly more upscale area just a short walk from the city center. It runs along the north bank of the River Shannon and has some of the city’s best-rated hotels, including one I’ve stayed at myself.
Pros of Staying on Ennis Road
- Close to the city center on foot
- Quieter and less crowded than the center
- Some of the best hotels in Limerick are here
Cons of Staying on Ennis Road
- Slightly fewer restaurant and pub options than the center
- Can get traffic congestion on the main road
Where to Stay on Ennis Road
Limerick Strand Hotel – I stayed here for a wedding in December 2022 and loved it. The location right on the River Shannon is stunning, and the rooms are spacious and well finished. The River Bar and Restaurant is worth a visit even if you’re not staying.
Woodfield House Hotel – Smaller and more intimate than the Strand, about a 15-minute walk from the city center. Good value and popular with locals.
Things to Do Near Ennis Road
- O’Connell Monument
- Gaelic Grounds
- North Circular Road Park
- St. Mary’s Cathedral
Continue your trip and head north to find the best places to stay in Dingle.
3. Castletroy
Castletroy is about 3 miles east of the city center and has a noticeably different feel from downtown Limerick. It’s home to the University of Limerick, which gives the area a young, energetic atmosphere with plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants. I stayed here on my first visit to Limerick when my husband was showing me around his old university haunts, and it’s a good base if you want to be close to the university campus or prefer a quieter, more suburban stay.
It’s also a solid choice for families – there are good parks, a large shopping center, and easy access to King John’s Castle and other things to do in Limerick with kids.
Pros of Staying in Castletroy
- Family-friendly neighborhood
- Close to the University of Limerick
- Plenty of amenities, including shops and restaurants
- Well connected to public transport
Cons of Staying in Castletroy
- Further from the city center than the other neighborhoods
- Heavy traffic during peak hours
Where to Stay in Castletroy
Castletroy Park Hotel – Right next to the University of Limerick, this is where I stayed on my first visit. Spacious rooms, full leisure facilities including a pool, hot tub, steam room, and sauna, and a bus stop right outside. Good option if you want a proper hotel with all the amenities.
Kilmurry Lodge Hotel – Smaller and more personal than the Castletroy Park. Family-run with good breakfasts and a nice garden. About a 10-minute walk to the city center.
Radisson BLU Hotel and Spa Limerick – Full spa facilities and a good restaurant on site. Best option if you want something more upscale in the Castletroy area.
Things to Do in Castletroy
- University of Limerick campus
- Castletroy Neighborhood Park
- Plassey Park
- Castletroy Golf Club
- Castletroy Shopping Center
4. Corbally
Corbally is a peaceful residential area on the north bank of the River Shannon, about a 15-minute walk from the city center. It’s a good option if you want a quieter stay and don’t mind being slightly removed from the main tourist areas. The riverside walking paths here are some of the nicest in Limerick and are worth a morning stroll.
Accommodation options are limited in Corbally itself – most visitors staying in this area end up choosing from hotels that sit between Corbally and the city center.
Pros of Staying in Corbally
- Quiet and residential
- Beautiful riverside walks
- Safe and family-friendly
Cons of Staying in Corbally
- Very few dedicated accommodation options
- Less frequent bus routes than the center
- Little in the way of nightlife
Where to Stay in Corbally
Absolute Hotel Limerick – The closest well-rated hotel to Corbally, sitting right on the Abbey River. Modern rooms, a good restaurant on the terrace overlooking the water, and a spa on site. One of the better-reviewed hotels in Limerick overall.
Maple Valley Accommodation – A highly-rated guesthouse option (9.2) on the quieter north side of the city. Good value and more personal than a chain hotel.
Things to Do in Corbally
- Corbally Baths and Red Path Walkway
- Corbally Linear Park
- Bunratty Castle and Folk Park (20 minutes by car)
- The Boat Club
5. Raheen and Dooradoyle
Raheen and Dooradoyle sit side by side in the southwest of Limerick, about 4 miles from the city center. These are purely suburban areas anchored by the Crescent Shopping Center, one of the largest retail centers in Munster. They’re really only worth considering if you need easy motorway access, are arriving near Shannon Airport, or want a budget-friendly base and don’t mind taking a bus into the center. For most tourists, the city center or Castletroy is a better option.
Pros of Staying in Raheen
- Easy motorway and Shannon Airport access
- Close to Crescent Shopping Center
- Quieter than the city center
Cons of Staying in Raheen
- Very limited hotel options
- Far from the main sights
- Not walkable to anything tourist-related
Where to Stay in Raheen
Great National South Court Hotel – The main hotel option in Raheen. Good facilities, an on-site gastropub, and free parking. Best suited for business travelers or anyone needing motorway access.
Maldron Hotel & Leisure Centre Limerick – Sits on the Raheen/Dooradoyle border and is a solid fallback if the South Court is fully booked. Leisure center with a pool included.
Things to Do Near Raheen
- Crescent Shopping Center
- Raheen Community Park
- Thomond Park Stadium
- Raheen Woods
Frequently Asked Questions About Staying in Limerick
These might help you decide more about your stay in the city.
What is the best area to stay in Limerick?
The city center is the best base for most visitors, especially first-timers. You’ll be within walking distance of King John’s Castle, the Hunt Museum, and most restaurants and pubs. Castletroy is a good alternative if you want a quieter base with easy access to the University of Limerick.
Is Limerick safe for tourists?
Yes, Limerick is safe for tourists. Like any city, it has areas that are better avoided late at night, but the main tourist areas around the city center, King’s Island, and the riverfront are perfectly safe during the day and evening.
How far is Limerick from the Cliffs of Moher?
About 1 hour by car. Limerick is a popular base for day trips to the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and the Wild Atlantic Way. If you’re planning to visit the West Coast attractions, staying in Limerick is a smart choice.
What is Limerick known for?
Limerick is known for King John’s Castle, the Treaty Stone, the Hunt Museum, and its rugby culture. It’s also a gateway city for the Wild Atlantic Way and Clare’s coastline. The city has a strong food and pub scene that’s often overlooked by visitors who pass through without stopping.
Is it worth staying in Limerick?
Yes, especially if you’re exploring the west of Ireland. It’s often overlooked in favor of Galway, but it offers a more authentic Irish city experience with fewer tourists and lower hotel prices. A one or two-night stay gives you time to explore the city and use it as a base for Clare and Kerry day trips.
Hopefully, this helps you find where to stay in Limerick to make your trip that much easier!
