Limerick

Ireland's first City of Culture, Limerick is a gorgeous tapestry of Georgian splendor and Medieval marvels with superb riverfront views to boot. On the banks of the mighty Shannon River, Limerick's turbulent past has left in its wake a glorious collection of architectural jewels, like King John’s Castle, one of Ireland's best-preserved Medieval structures. There are gardens and parks as well, while the old town lies on King's Island, a slice of the past bounded by water on all sides. The Milk Market, on the other hand, is a fine place to get a feel for the pulse of the city, its food stalls brimming with seasonal produce, while the alleys of Fox’s Bow sell traditional, local crafts. Nearby, the Hunt Museum and the Limerick City Gallery of Art ensconce the works of varied master artists, and the city is forever abuzz with a seemingly endless stream of festivals and events. For the locals, sports are a passion and not merely a pastime, and a topic of fervent discussion over a pint of Guinness at the neighborhood pub. A flurry of fine dining restaurants and a splendid boardwalk complete the setting for an enjoyable Irish getaway at Limerick.