Between Galway And Cork Is Ireland's City With Craft Brews, Medieval Streets, And River Views

Historic cities and charming towns are a dime a dozen in Ireland, but there's something particularly alluring about Limerick. Despite being the republic's third largest city, it doesn't seem to receive as much attention as other metropolises such as Dublin or Galway. Yet this city in the Mid-West Region, set along the Shannon river and roughly midway between Galway and Cork, has everything travelers seek in an Irish city: a center full of castles, cathedrals, and cobblestone streets, a quaint riverfront, and, of course, plenty of spots to grab a pint after a day of sightseeing.

Like many Irish cities, Limerick has a long history. Human history in the surrounding county dates as far back as 9,000 years. The Vikings established the city around A.D. 922, before the Normans captured it in 1195, building much of the medieval architecture it's now known for, such as King John's Castle. Today, it's a hub for heritage and education and a cultural capital with a thriving art scene. Of course, the city is associated with literature, too, thanks to it bearing the same name as the witty five-line verse. While Limerick may not be the birthplace of the limerick, it's believed that the city gave the poem structure its name due to an old Irish military ditty.

There are a number of ways to get to the city. Shannon Airport (SNN), a 30-minute drive away, connects to many U.S. and European hubs such as Boston, Chicago, Edinburgh, and London. The drive passes Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a grand 15th-century tower. You can also fly into Dublin Airport (DUB) and drive under three hours southwest to Limerick. Finally, there's also the option to travel by bus from nearby cities such as Galway and Cork.

As one of Ireland's oldest cities, history is one of Limerick's biggest draws. After Dublin, Limerick has the country's second largest Georgian quarter, museums chronicling everything from the county's aviation and maritime heritage to Limerick's "Wild Geese" military history, and preserved buildings galore. But it's Limerick's medieval era that gets the most attention.

The city's medieval quarter, where most of the heritage from the Middle Ages can be seen, is found on King's Island, a small isle in the Shannon river. Even just walking its streets feels like stepping back in time, with cobblestone avenues and rustic stone buildings. One of the city's biggest attractions, King John's Castle, is on the riverfront. With its stoic towers and sturdy walls, it's instantly recognizable. Dating from the 13th century, the fortress sits on a Viking-era site and bears the name of King John. If the name sounds familiar, that's because the monarch served as the villain in Robin Hood legends. The castle is open to the public, with educational exhibits, craft demonstrations, and tours. But one of the best reasons to visit is because the medieval walls offer sweeping views of the Shannon river, St. Munchin's Church, and charming rows of houses across the water. The medieval quarter is also home to the 12th-century St. Mary's Cathedral, which is the oldest structure in the city still used for its original purpose.

After exploring the Middle Ages, head to the center to visit Limerick Museum, which houses artifacts from Limerick's many eras in an old friary. There are more historic sites on the Shannon river's west bank, including The Strand Barracks and Treaty Stone, site of the 1691 signing of the Treaty of Limerick, which gave the city to the conqueror William of Orange. The stone sits along Clancy's Strand, a riverfront boardwalk facing King John's Castle – another nice spot to take in river views, watch Curragower Falls, and admire riverside neighborhoods.

Even though history is alive and well in Limerick, it's far from stuck in the past. The city has plenty of modern-day fun, too, from plays and performances to rugby matches at Thomond Park Stadium. Experiencing Ireland's pub culture is another must-do while in town, especially since Limerick and its surrounding county have quite the reputation for beer.

Irish coffee, a whiskey-infused brew, was invented in 1943 in Foynes, a 45-minute drive west of Limerick. Treaty City Brewery is in Limerick proper. Founded in 2014, it's the heart of Limerick's craft beer scene. Along with grabbing a pint or trying a beer flight, you can also tour the brewery's historic home in the heart of the medieval district. King John's Castle is right around the corner, so the brewery is the perfect spot for a drink after touring the fort. Stopping for a draught of Guinness or some Irish whiskey at J.J. Bowles is also essential, as it's said to be the city's oldest pub.

Once you've had your fill of Limerick, the surrounding region is worth exploring as well. If you have a car, you can quickly hop onto the Wild Atlantic Way for a coastal road trip. Heading southwest, you can drive around the lovely Dingle Peninsula, home to the colorful coastal town of Dingle, or go hiking among enchanting mountains, lakes, and castles in Killarney National Park. Alternatively, head north and get to know Galway or hop on a ferry over to the Aran Islands.