green cliffs on coastline of ireland with sea and blue sky behind

Ireland Holidays

Flights + Hotel

The charming Emerald Isle 

Ireland holidays offer stunning green landscapes, dramatic coastal views and and some of the most charming, cultured cities in all of Europe. 

Roam rugged coastlines as you skirt the Cliffs of Moher on a day trip from Shannon. Then immerse yourself in stories of old at the Rock of Cashel – a medieval fortress-cathedral that could have sprung from the pages of a fantasy novel. 

Enjoy a traditionally warm Irish welcome in Dublin, where lively folk music sweeps through the streets and hearty, authentic dishes are served in its restaurants. Meanwhile, the legacy of great literary figures such as James Joyce can be discovered through a wealth of attractions. 

In a land that's full of adventures, exploring the wonders of the Emerald Isle during a holiday to Ireland is an experience you’ll never forget.

 

 

aerial view of dublin against blue sky

Things to do in Ireland

Holidays in Ireland are full of adventure, with remarkable venues, captivating history and Irish folklore around every corner. 

dublin castle and tower against blue sky

Follow in the footsteps of kings

Be sure to explore Ireland’s array of historic forts and castles on a tour of the parapets and turrets that once defended the country’s rulers. 

Discover the secrets of Blarney Castle’s hidden caves, murky dungeons and iconic kissing stone on a trip to Cork, or head to the fascinating Rock of Cashel, where the Kings of Munster once reigned over the surrounding lands. 

The Gothic-inspired walls and grounds of Dublin Castle have played host to numerous monarchs over the centuries – including George IV and Queen Victoria.

Today an impressive circular Medieval Tower and palatial accompanying structures still stand tall, while exhibitions of rare antiques and classical music concerts grace its chambers. 

Where to stay in Ireland

The heart of Dublin

You’ll struggle to find a finer venue for romantic Ireland holidays than the Georgian streets and parks located around Trinity College and St Stephen’s Green in Dublin.

The five-star Fitzwilliam Hotel is an especially luxurious option in Ireland's captivating capital. 

Dublin’s cultural quarter is also a great place to base yourself for city sightseeing.

Street performers and musicians frequent the cobbles and add to the jovial atmosphere, while photography studios and art museums sit side-by-side with stylish restaurants and cafes.  

front view of trinity college in dublin
st patricka bridge cork quarter

Cork’s ‘Victorian’ quarter

Named for the distinctive 19th-century architecture dominating the area around MacCurtain Street, you'll find Cork's Victorian quarter just north of St Patrick’s Bridge.

This revitalised district is home to an array of vintage shops, trendy eateries and flea markets – housed within characterful buildings. 

Maldron Hotel Shandon Cork, Clayton Hotel Cork City, Jury’s Inn Cork and the Ambassador Hotel & Health Club are all well-placed to explore the area, and the nearby quayside. 

County Wicklow

A hidden haven to the south of Dublin, County Wicklow is known as the Garden of Ireland, with its haunting mountains, expansive beaches and seemingly countless miles of national parkland. 

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale when you stumble across its hidden towns and stately homes. 

Seek out the towering cascade at Powerscourt – Ireland’s highest waterfall – or lace up your hiking boots and discover sites from the Bronze Age.

If you're looking for activity holidays in Ireland, this is the place for you. 

cobh a harbour town wicklow colourful houses
irish landscape and hills with sunshine rays

All you need to know about Ireland

Local currency

The currency used in Ireland is the euro. ATMs are available in towns and cities, while payments with major credit cards are widely accepted. 

Languages spoken 

Irish is the official language of the nation, but English is more commonly used. Signs are often displayed in both Irish and English. 

Getting around 

Car hire is available for day trips and tours of the coast, while most city attractions can be reached by taxi or on foot. A train and bus network also connects major towns and cities. 

Public holidays

National festivals and holidays in Ireland include St. Patrick’s Day (17 March), Christmas Day and Easter Monday.

More about Ireland

                                                                   

Culture

Ireland is rich in traditions such as ‘Samhain’ – which was first celebrated here more than 1,000 years ago, and over time inspired the modern-day Halloween. 

Today, festivals and folk celebrations remain a central part of Irish culture – with music, art and poetry at the forefront. 

Ireland is rightly proud of its literary heritage. James Joyce, famous for his novel Ulysses, is synonymous with the city of Dublin, and you can take a walking tour to explore the key landmarks and inspirations from his life.  

While on holiday in Ireland, be sure to listen to some traditional Irish music – played on pipes, banjos and 'fiddles’, with songs drawing on classic folk heroes and stories. 

Irish sports are also widely enjoyed – the most popular being Gaelic football and the fast-paced, stick-and-ball game of hurling. 

helmet racket ball sport irish
bowl of hearty irish stew

Cuisine

Irish food is famous for its hearty, warming dishes – typically made with meat and root vegetables. 

Colcannon infuses mashed potatoes with cabbage, while traditional stews tend to use tenderised mutton or lamb.

These were once cooked over large cauldrons on fires, but today slow cookers are often used to make the ingredients melt in the mouth. 

When it comes to regional specialities, Dublin is the place to go for Gur Cakes – delicious pastries filled with blended fruit, syrup and breadcrumbs. 

Cork, on the other hand, is famed for its spiced beef and seafood, even going so far as to host its very own annual oyster festival.

female tourist walking on hill in ireland

Why we love Ireland

“The welcome you receive in Ireland is unlike anywhere else in the world, and the views at the coast are amazing. Be sure to spend some time in Dublin’s cultural quarter learning about James Joyce, listening to traditional folk music, or simply getting to know the locals.”

People who love Ireland also enjoy…

paris france eiffel tower sunset

France

Take your pick of pretty villages, Mediterranean beaches and sun-dappled countryside. Coastal escapes, city breaks and sightseeing tours of grand chateaux are all possible.

italy gondola venice

Italy 

Take in opulent palaces and iconic galleries in romantic Renaissance cities, while dining on delicious pasta, sweet gelato and other regional delights.
 

london skyline at sunset

UK 

From the green parks and famous landmarks of London to the vibrant art and music scene of Manchester, the UK is filled with history while being at the cutting-edge of culture. 

abu dhabi grand mosque

UAE

Sink your feet into warm sands, go in search of flamingos and dolphins at the scenic mangroves, or take a seat at one of the many cultural festivals and events.