If you’re planning a trip to Limerick, one of the essential tasks on your to-do list is finding the perfect place to stay. Although Limerick is smaller than Dublin or Cork, it boasts several unique areas, each with its distinct charm and character. In this article, I’ll explore six wonderful neighborhoods in Limerick to help you decide where to stay in Limerick during your visit.
I’ve been to Limerick twice and always stay in the city center, as it’s very convenient to be within walking distance of restaurants, pubs, and stores. However, I’ll cover all the best places to stay in Limerick so you can determine the ideal location for your visit, whether you’re staying for a few days or stopping by during a road trip around Ireland.
Before we begin, it’s helpful to get a sense of Limerick’s geography. The River Shannon runs through the city, creating a beautiful landscape and dividing it into distinct areas. Limerick’s city center lies to the south of the river, and the surrounding neighborhoods showcase the city’s rich culture and history.
Are you ready to explore the best neighborhoods in Limerick for your stay and learn what each area has to offer? Let’s get started!
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 closeby
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
Limerick’s City center boasts a rich and storied past as the oldest quarter in the city. This historic district has many well-preserved medieval and cultural attractions, illuminating the city’s fascinating history.
The city was founded by the Vikings in the 10th century and has been a key center of trade and commerce ever since. Over the centuries, Limerick City Center has been shaped by a variety of cultures, including the Normans and the Anglo-Irish. Today, the city center blends modern and historic architecture, with buildings ranging from medieval castles to modern shopping centers.
A Limerick City Walking Tour is a great way to explore all the significant Ireland landmarks in the area while soaking in the scenery and atmosphere. Plus, the scenery around the city center is stunning, with the River Shannon flowing right through the heart of it all.
Pros of Staying in Limerick City Center
- Within walking distance of popular tourist attractions
- Public transport is easily accessible
- Lively nightlife
Cons of Staying in Limerick City Center
- Higher cost of living
- Noisy, especially over weekends
- Very crowded
Where to Stay in Limerick City Center
The Limerick City Hotel: The hotel is spacious and modern, with all the amenities you need to make your stay comfortable. It boasts a prime location in the city center, with stunning views over the River Shannon. You’ll be just a stone’s throw away from Colbert Bus and Train Station, making it the perfect spot for getting around easily. The restaurant and bar are great places to unwind after a long day of exploring Limerick. Rates start at $127 per night.
The George Hotel: With its convenient location on the corner of O’Connell Street, it is the perfect starting point for all your adventures in the city. The George is a modern and comfortable hotel with excellent service. Its restaurant, Vincenzo Grill, offers fresh local cuisine, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. Rates start at $150 per night.
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 sophisticated and popular area in Limerick City, just a few steps from the bustling city center. It boasts a rich history, dating back to the 18th century when it was a rural area with a few scattered farms and cottages. In the 19th century, it became more populated with the development of several grand homes and estates, such as the Georgian-style North Circular Road House.
Today, Ennis Road is a buzzing, upmarket area with a classy atmosphere. The neighborhood’s public gardens and open spaces are beautifully maintained and offer stunning river views, pretty walkways, and ample shopping opportunities, making it a nice option for where to stay in Limerick. You’ll love being in this area during a 7-day trip to Ireland.
Pros of Staying in Ennis Road
- Close to the city center
- Good public transport links
- Vibrant and friendly community
- Plenty of dining options
Cons of Staying in Ennis Road
- Expensive cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Noise pollution
Where to Stay in Ennis Road
Woodfield House Hotel: This hotel’s location couldn’t be better — the city center is a breezy 15-minute walk away. The hotel has 26 cozy rooms to choose from. It also has an intimate bar that is popular with the locals, allowing you to experience Irish hospitality firsthand. Rates start at $106 per night.
Limerick Strand Hotel: This hotel’s spacious rooms come with king-size beds, flat-screen TVs, and 24-hour room service. The hotel also offers a swimming pool, hot tubs, and a steam room for the ultimate relaxation. Be sure to indulge in traditional Irish foods at the hotel’s River Bar & Restaurant, where you can have a Guinness and enjoy the scenery. Rates start at $192 per night.
Things to Do in Ennis Road
- O’Connell Monument
- Gaelic Grounds
- Boutique shopping
- Shelbourne Park
- North Circular Road Park
- St. Joseph’s Church
- St. Mary’s Cathedral
3. Castletroy
Just over three miles east of Limerick’s city center lies Castletroy — a neighborhood brimming with a vibrant atmosphere. Originally, it was a small village with a castle built by the Normans in the 13th century. However, over the years, the area has grown and developed into a thriving community, complete with a large shopping center, a university campus, and a variety of residential areas.
Castletroy is home to the University of Limerick, giving it an active, youthful feel with plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants catering to the student population, with many considering it one of the best Irish cities to visit. It also boasts several gorgeous parks and green spaces, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros of Staying in Castletroy
- Well-connected to public transportation
- Family-friendly neighborhood
- Plenty of amenities (shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants)
Cons of Staying in Castletroy
- Heavy traffic during peak hours
- Higher cost of living
- Further from the city center
Where to Stay in Castletroy
Kilmurry Lodge Hotel: This charming family-run hotel is ideally situated just a 10-minute walk from the bustling city center. The guest rooms are very comfortable, with power showers, free WiFi, and complimentary on-site parking. You can wake up to a delicious full Irish breakfast in the Kilmurry Suite and savor locally-sourced produce with every bite. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll through the hotel’s beautiful 3-acre gardens for a great start to your morning. Rates start at $155 per night.
Castletroy Park Hotel: This hotel is situated right next to the University of Limerick and the National Technological Park. It is perfect if you want a spacious and bright room, complete with king-size beds and free WiFi. But that’s not all — the hotel’s Aqua and Leisure Club offers a pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna, and even a Beauty Salon where you can get a massage or full body scrub. Plus, you’ll be close to Shannon International Airport and the main motorways, with a bus stop right outside the hotel to take you wherever you want to go. Rates start at $169 per night.
Things to Do in Castletroy
- Castletroy Neighborhood Park
- University of Limerick
- Castletroy Golf Club
- Plassey Park
- Castletroy Shopping Center
4. Corbally
Corbally has a rich history dating back to the Viking era when it was known as “Corbachlan.” In the 18th and 19th centuries, Corbally became a popular destination for wealthy merchants and traders who built large homes in the area. Today, many of these historic homes have been preserved and can still be seen in the neighborhood.
With its peaceful residential streets and stunning views of the river, Corbally is the perfect retreat if you are seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you enjoy strolling or cycling through the streets, you’ll love the many trails and paths that wind through this picturesque area.
Pros of Staying in Corbally
- The neighborhood is very safe
- Plenty of green spaces and parks
- Many nearby amenities
Cons of Staying in Corbally
- Less frequent bus routes
- Few accommodation options
- Very little nightlife
Where to Stay in Corbally
Absolute Hotel: This hotel offers chic rooms with modern decor, spacious rain showers, plasma TVs, and free WiFi. Its restaurant, Harry’s on the River, serves delicious international cuisine and creative cocktails on an outdoor terrace overlooking the Abbey River. The hotel is also home to the Vanilla Browns Spa, where you can enjoy relaxing body and beauty treatments in a tranquil environment. Rates start at $171 per night.
Things To Do in Corbally
- Corbally Baths & Red Path Walkway
- Corbally Linear Park
- Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
- The Mill Bar
- The Boat Club
5. Raheen
Raheen’s past is deeply rooted in its rural origins, with only a handful of quaint farms and cottages scattered throughout the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. As Limerick grew and expanded into the 20th century, so too did Raheen, evolving into a bustling suburban area with a distinct character and charm.
This lovely suburban area is located in the southwest of Limerick. It is a pleasant place to book a room when looking for where to stay in Limerick, especially if you want a quieter alternative to the city center. The neighborhood has gorgeous residential properties with beautiful gardens and access to all the amenities you might need.
Pros of Staying in Raheen
- Convenient location close to the M7 Motorway
- Plenty of shopping options at the nearby Crescent Shopping Center
- Well-connected to public transport
Cons of Staying in Raheen
- Further from the city center (around 22 miles)
- Fewer options for nightlife
- Accommodation choices are limited
Where to Stay in Raheen
South Court Hotel: This hotel offers 124 spacious and luxurious rooms. It is rated among the top 10 hotels in Limerick City, and with its excellent service, elegant decor, and amenities, it is easy to understand why. The hotel also features the award-winning Off The Bone Gastropub (to try some tasty Irish drinks), a Fitness Suite, and the Cream Room Coffee House. Rates start at $140 per night.
Things To Do in Raheen
- Raheen Community Park
- Raheen Woods
- The Copper Room
- The Elm Tree
6. Dooradoyle
Dooradoyle is located in the southwestern part of Limerick, just a few miles from the city center. Its main attraction is the Crescent Shopping Center, one of the largest shopping malls in Ireland. It features everything from luxury boutiques to cinemas and a large, diverse food court.
This neighborhood is perfect if you are looking to explore the city while enjoying the comfort of a suburban area. Dooradoyle is conveniently located near main motorways like the M7, so you can easily spend a day in Dublin or explore other parts of the country.
Pros of Staying in Dooradoyle
- Plenty of shops, supermarkets, and restaurants
- Good transport links, with several bus routes serving the area
- Diverse community
Cons of Staying in Dooradoyle
- Some parts of the neighborhood are noisy due to the proximity to major roads and highways
- Parking space throughout the neighborhood is limited
- Less nightlife and cultural attractions
Where to Stay in Dooradoyle
Almeda Bed & Breakfast: This cozy and comfortable guesthouse on the main Dooradoyle Road is within easy reach of the River Shannon, the University of Limerick, and other local attractions. It offers a range of facilities, including a homey lounge area, a garden, and free parking. The guesthouse also serves a delicious homestyle breakfast each morning, with various options to suit all dietary requirements. Rates start at $103 per night.
Maldron Hotel & Leisure Center: This hotel is just a short distance from the city center and features 143 comfortable guest rooms. It boasts a range of facilities, including a leisure center with a gym, pool, sauna, and steam room. The comfortable and convenient hotel also offers guests an on-site restaurant and bar, nearby public transport links, and free parking. Rates start at $128.
Things To Do in Dooradoyle
- Crescent Shopping Center
- Dooradoyle Park
- Thomond Park Stadium
- Dooradoyle Library
- Collins Bar
- The Unicorn Restaurant
- Dooradoyle Leisure Center
Hopefully, this helps you find where to stay in Limerick to make your trip that much easier!
