A short flight from the UK, the Republic of Ireland is the perfect destination for a getaway. With beautiful natural scenery, as well as vibrant, world-famous cities, this is a country you have to experience at least once! No matter whether you are after an adventure, hiking the gorgeous mountains, or are after a weekend city break in Dublin, Ireland has something for everyone.
Jump to Irish Holidays:
- City Breaks
- Cycling Holidays
- Camping
- A Visit to the Seaside
- Cottage Getaways
- Private Island Irish Getaway
- A Holiday for History Lovers
- Literary Adventures
- All Aboard Railway Tours
How Many People Travel to Ireland?
In 2019 Ireland was named one of the top 10 destinations for UK holidaymakers. And it’s no wonder why! In 2019, approximately 5,236,000 people chose to travel to Ireland to enjoy the stunning scenery and bustling cities.
City Breaks
The Republic of Ireland currently has 5 locations that hold city status, with the most famous being the capital of Dublin. Over the border in Northern Ireland you’ll find 5 more cities, including the capital of Belfast. Each city offers its own personality and unique experiences.
Dublin:
The capital of the Republic of Ireland is a top choice for an Irish holiday. This coastal city is located in the east of Ireland at the mouth of the River Liffey. Dublin offers a range of cultural activities. From visiting historic landmarks such as St Patrick’s Cathedral, to exploring an abandoned prison reminiscent of Alcatraz’s halls, that you may have explored on a holiday to America.
For those looking for a fun weekend holiday in Ireland, Dublin will also be a fabulous place for you to visit. The city is well-known for being the home of the Guiness factory, which you can take tours of. Whilst the town’s many bars and pubs are renowned for being lively and full of music. Temple Bar is the area of Dublin where you’ll discover the city’s nightlife, with famous pubs including The Temple Bar Pub.
Cork
Cork is a city located in the South West of ROI. Like Dublin, Cork is steeped in rich history that you’ll be able to explore in your time holidaying in Ireland. Cork was the final port of call before The Titanic set out on her fateful journey. The Titanic Experience is a must-visit attraction to truly walk through the experience of the ship’s passengers. For a more lighthearted afternoon, explore the English Market that has many Irish delicacies despite its name – founded in 1788.
Limerick
Limerick is also set in the South of Ireland and again offers lots to see for people who are on holiday in Ireland. The Hunt Museum is a must for art lovers, founded in 1974 after donations from the Hunt family. You’ll be able to view Renoir and Picasso paintings, as well as weapons, jewellery, and more from times gone by. If you’re lucky enough to visit this lovely city on a sunny day, you can enjoy a relaxing picnic in People’s Park!
Waterford
The oldest city in Ireland, Waterford was founded by the Vikings in 914 A.D, and retains its city status to this day. One of the primary attractions in this Irish city is the Waterford Crystal factory, where you can take tours.
Galway
Galway is a harbour city in the west of Ireland. Home to many festivals, you should try and time your holiday to Ireland to experience one of these lively events. From the Galway International Arts Festival, to the Galway International Oyster Festival – there is truly something for everyone.
Cycling Holidays
An extraordinary way to take in the gorgeous scenery of the Republic of Ireland is to get around on a bike. Choose to navigate the Irish coast on a long holiday, or take in one county at a time, learning the Donegal or Kerry roads like a local. If you like to spend all your time on vacation outdoors, enjoying the sights and getting a good workout in, this is the perfect way for you to holiday in Ireland.
Camping
Lovers of the great outdoors will enjoy nothing more than camping in the Republic of Ireland. From pitching your own tent in County Galway’s camping parks, to spending the night in a luxury yurt in County Donegal, there’s an experience for every level of camper.
A Visit to the Seaside
Holidays are often synonymous with spending time at the beach, and Ireland does not disappoint in this area. With extraordinary rural beaches, featuring dramatic cliffs and sea views you can swim, surf, and enjoy the sand on Ireland’s shores. For those wanting to take a dip in the ocean, Streedagh Strand in County Sligo is the perfect beach due to its sheltered location which creates a calm environment to swim. Whilst surfers may enjoy Trawmore Bay on Achill Island to catch the waves.
Cottage Getaways
Cottage holidays in Ireland are ideal for a relaxed getaway whatever season you choose to visit the country! Whether it’s for a writer’s retreat, a girly weekend, or a romantic getaway, Ireland has a wealth of cosy cottages featured across the country. Perfect for taking strolls in the beautiful environment, or for curling up with a good book, you’ll adore this Irish holiday.
Private Island Irish Getaway
For a large family holiday to Ireland, you’ll be pressed to find a better destination than Collanmore Island Lodge. Located close to the town of Westport, you can rent this private island that can sleep up to 22 people. With stunning views across the sea, you’ll be able to enjoy watersports including kayaking from your own private beach.
A Holiday for History Lovers
Ireland has a very rich history and multiple holidays could be dedicated to discovering the wonders of this country. From Dublin Castle which is more than 800 years old, to the 1691 Treaty Stone in Limerick, coast to coast you’ll be eager to learn more about the Emerald Isle!
Literary Adventures
Ireland has long been famed for its literary history, both past and present. For lovers of books and literature, you’ll relish in finding the literary delights this country has to offer. Dublin has been home to many famous writers, from Bram Stoker, to William Butler Yeats, to Oscar Wilde, some of the greats have been Irish. Whilst visiting the city, make sure to take in The Library of Trinity College. This impressive collection of books is housed in a beautiful room with two floors of floor to ceiling books.
For a more modern literary view of Ireland, why not take a trip to visit County Sligo which is home to the central characters of Sally Rooney’s Normal People. You’ll also find that the TV show Game of Thrones, which has books by the same name, took Ireland to be its home filming in Tollymore Forest Park, Inch Abbey, and many more locations across the country.
All Aboard Railway Tours
For a grand tour of Ireland, without having to lift a finger yourself, take a railway holiday! From a week spent travelling the country by rail, to a full fortnight allowing you to take in all the sights Ireland has to offer, we know you’ll love settling into a carriage and watching the world go by. Simply hop off in the destinations you wish to explore in more detail and stay for a night or two before catching your next train!
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