Aerial view of Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route, which winds along the Antrim coast

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Holidays in Ireland

Holidays in Ireland are difficult to compare with breaks elsewhere in Europe – the Emerald Isle is genuinely a destination apart, and not just geographically. Eternally associated with rolling green landscapes, charming locals and lashings of Guinness, the country exudes a hopelessly romantic power over travellers.

From the towering bulk of the Cliffs of Moher to the historic city squares of Dublin, Ireland is filled with natural spectacles and centuries of tradition.

Where holidays in Ireland are concerned, the weather can be unpredictable (to put it mildly!). June to August are the warmest months, but also the busiest in terms of tourist numbers. Spring and autumn can therefore be excellent alternatives, while the benefit of a short break in Ireland during winter is that you can often find cheap rates – although be aware that some attractions shut between October and Easter.

If you’re coming to Ireland in peak season, book well ahead to source the cheapest deals.

Discover a fast-changing island

There’s far more to holidays in Ireland than the clichés, of course. Ireland is a dynamic, forward-facing nation that understands exactly how to impress its visitors. For every kooky cobbled street and blustery mountain panorama, you’ll find a bang-on-trend restaurant or stylish boutique hotel.

Ireland is also one of Europe’s most beautiful corners – some of the most unforgettable moments it offers – a hike along the glorious Kerry Way, for example – are also its cheapest.

Enjoy Irish cultural variety

Ireland’s cultural reputation far outweighs its small size – Dublin alone has produced the likes of Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw and WB Yeats – and the same holds true for the country’s attractions. Despite its dimensions, this is a hugely diverse destination.

A short break in Ireland can involve anything from raucous weekends of live music in Galway City or castle-spotting in County Cork to languid boat trips on the River Shannon or exploring sleepy fishing villages along the Wild Atlantic Way. Plus, if you’re clever about when and where you go, a break in Ireland can be cheap, too.

St Patrick’s Day: The undisputed daddy of the annual events calendar is St Patrick’s Day on March 17, when Ireland lets its hair down, turns even greener than usual and enjoys the party of the year.

Currency: Euro (€)
Capital city: Dublin
Languages: English, Irish
Key phrase to learn: Sláinte! (Cheers!)
Time difference: Ireland is in the same time zone as London
Average flight time: 1 hour 10 minutes
International phone code: +353
Emergency services number: 112 or 999
Public holidays: New Year's Day (January 1), St Patrick’s Day (17 March), Good Friday (Friday before Easter Sunday), Easter Monday (Monday after Easter Sunday), May Holiday (May 1), June Holiday (first Monday in June), August Holiday (first Monday in August), October Holiday (last Monday in October), Christmas Day (December 25), St Stephen’s Day (December 26).
Link to FCO travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/ireland