Wide view of the River Shannon flowing through Limerick city on a bright afternoon, with stone bridges, green riverbanks, and historic buildings lining the waterfront

About Limerick & Tours

Discover Limerick

Ireland's Third Largest City

Limerick is Ireland's third largest city, situated in the mid-west of Ireland near the Atlantic coast. The city dates from around 812 BCE when it was settled by the Vikings, and its rich heritage is visible across its streets — from the medieval landmarks to the elegant Georgian quarter. Delegates attending the WONCA World Rural Health Conference 2022 found Limerick a compact and welcoming city, with history, culture, and natural beauty all within easy reach.

Historic Landmarks

Must-See Attractions

King John's Castle standing on the banks of the River Shannon under a dramatic cloudy sky, stone walls reflected in the water

King John's Castle

Dating from 1200, this imposing fortress on the banks of the River Shannon is one of Ireland's best-preserved Norman castles. Its interactive exhibitions bring eight centuries of local history to life.

Visit King John's Castle
The interior of St Mary's Cathedral with tall stone arches, wooden pews, and stained glass windows glowing in warm light

St Mary's Cathedral

Founded in 1168, St Mary's Cathedral is the oldest building in Limerick still in daily use. Its magnificent stained glass, stone carvings, and peaceful atmosphere make it a highlight of any visit.

Visit St Mary's Cathedral

Culture & Heritage

Georgian Quarter & Beyond

A row of colourful Georgian townhouses along a quiet Limerick street on a sunny afternoon

Georgian Quarter

Limerick's Georgian quarter is one of the finest in Ireland, with broad streets, red-brick townhouses, and elegant doorways. A stroll through this area offers a glimpse of 18th-century Limerick at its most refined.

The Hunt Museum gallery interior with paintings on pale walls and sculpture displays, soft gallery lighting

The Hunt Museum

Housed in the historic Custom House, the Hunt Museum holds a remarkable collection of art and antiquities spanning from the Neolithic period to the 20th century, including works by Picasso and Renoir.

Visit The Hunt Museum

Galleries, Breweries & Day Trips

More to Explore

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    Limerick City Gallery of Art

    One of Ireland's leading contemporary art galleries, featuring rotating exhibitions of Irish and international artists in a beautiful Carnegie building.

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    The People's Museum

    A fascinating social history museum housed in a Georgian townhouse, celebrating the lives and stories of Limerick's people through the centuries.

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    Treaty City Brewery

    Located in the historic medieval quarter, this craft brewery offers tours and tastings that connect Limerick's brewing heritage with modern craft beer culture.

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    Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

    A short drive from Limerick, this 15th-century castle and open-air folk park recreate Irish rural life across centuries, complete with thatched cottages and costumed guides.

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    Cliffs of Moher

    One of Ireland's most iconic natural landmarks, the Cliffs of Moher rise over 200 metres above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking coastal views about an hour's drive from Limerick.

Plan Your Stay

Accommodation in Limerick

Conference delegates had access to a range of accommodation options across the city, from city-centre hotels to campus residences at the University of Limerick.

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