Limerick

Limerick, Ireland's third-largest city, sits where the Shannon River meets the Atlantic. It's got this awesome mix of medieval history and modern energy that hits you right when you arrive. The city's dominated by King John's Castle, a massive 13th-century fortress with views over the whole city.

The city has a rich literary tradition - the famous five-line poems called 'limericks' are named after the place! Limerick was also home to Frank McCourt, who wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir 'Angela's Ashes' about growing up in the city's tough lanes during the 1930s and 40s. You can explore this history at the Frank McCourt Museum.

Limerick has seriously transformed itself in recent years. The once rough-around-the-edges reputation has given way to a city with a buzzing food scene, cool street art, and a proud sporting culture - especially rugby. The Milk Market, dating back to 1852, is the beating heart of Limerick's food culture, where local farmers and artisans sell incredible produce every weekend. The Hunt Museum houses an impressive collection of art and antiquities, while St. Mary's Cathedral has been standing since 1168, making it the oldest building in Limerick still in continuous daily use.