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Ireland is the third largest island in Europe and also one of the most beautiful and popular vacation destinations in the western part of Europe. The capital of Ireland is Dublin which is both a lively and sleepy Irish city. Ireland is known for its beautiful landscape, with rolling hills, dramatic mountains in the west and a stunning coastline. The Irish are known for their friendliness and visitors to Ireland are guaranteed a warm welcome! There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in Ireland, from cottages in the countryside to apartments and rooms in the cities. Each city also has a wide range of hotels and hostels. Ireland is rich in history, culture and language. There are also many traditional music festivals that take place around the island throughout the year - not to be missed! Ireland is also home to many of the oldest historical sites in the world such as Newgrange which dates back to 3200 BC and Rock of Cashel which is a 12th century castle. You will never be bored, there is something for everyone to discover and love on the Green Isle! Keep reading to find out why we love Ireland so much!
Vacation accommodation and cottages
Ireland welcomes many tourists to its cities every year and there are hotels, bed and breakfasts and hostels scattered all over the island. HomeToGo offers a large selection of accommodation throughout Ireland such as beautiful Irish cottages and holiday homes to suit all types of travelers and budgets. Depending on which part of Ireland you want to visit, the range of accommodation may vary. The western part of Ireland hosts more cottages while the eastern part as well as the cities have more vacation homes to offer. Check out our map to see what's on offer.
Fun Facts
- 3 million pints of Guinness are brewed in Dublin every day
- The White House was designed by an Irishman - James Hoban! Li>
- Halloween began as an Irish festival originally called Samhain
- Titanic was made in Ireland Li>
- Ireland has some of the oldest historical sites in the world
Sights
In Ireland, you'll find a variety of excellent cities to visit. The capital Dublin has many great tourist attractions - such as the Guinness Storehouse Brewery and the Jameson Factory. Dublin also has some very nice parks such as St Stephen's Green and Phoenix Park (which is also one of the largest parks in Europe!). Nightlife in Dublin and Belfast is considered very good and the Temple Bar is a popular spot for tourists. In the west of Ireland are the towns of Galway and Sligo , which are popular vacation destinations in Ireland. There are many nice beaches, cozy pubs and good eateries. Galway is a popular arts city and many of Ireland's most popular writers and musicians reside here. Cork is famous for the Cork Jazz Festival and the nearby fishing village of Kinsale is a quintessential Irish town. Limerick is becoming increasingly popular with tourists due to its hip and modern city center. Ireland has a variety of food and drink that is appreciated by its visitors. You should definitely explore some of the smaller settlements in Ireland to get in touch with the locals and get the best tips to do in their area!
Fantastic scenery
Ireland has some of Western Europe's most dramatic landscapes. In the south of Ireland in County Clare, you'll find the stunning Cliffs of Moher. These huge cliffs look out over the Atlantic Ocean and receive up to 1 million visitors each year. In northwest Ireland near the town of Sligo, the epic limestone mountain Knock , which very clearly dominates the landscape in this area. In Northern Ireland you will find the amazing geological phenomenon known as the Giant's Causeway which was created after a volcanic eruption some 60 million years ago. The Giant's Causeway consists of 40,000 formations of black polygon-shaped basalt rocks and is a very popular tourist attraction. South of Dublin is the Wicklow Mountains National Park , which is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. This is also where the water was once used to make Guinness! There are plenty of cottages and holiday homes on offer across the Irish countryside, take a look at our map to see what's on offer!
Good food and drink
Ireland is known for its good food such as traditional Irish stew, soda bread, fresh seafood, Irish breakfasts and delicious cakes! Guinness is undoubtedly one of Ireland's most famous exports, and you'll find this tasty pint of beer all over the world. Quite an impressive feat for such a small island! Most pubs in Ireland have a kitchen serving traditional Irish food and in recent years there has been an increasing focus on modernizing traditional dishes. An increasing influence from other parts of Europe may also be reflected in menus across Ireland!
Transportation
Getting to Ireland has never been easier and there are major airports in Dublin, Belfast and Knock. You can go to Ireland from all over Europe and there are many flights that fly from London, Amsterdam, Berlin and Barcelona. Most flights from places in Western Europe to Dublin take less than two hours, making the journey very smooth and easy. You can also take the ferry to Ireland from Wales and England and it usually takes 4 hours to get from the British mainland to Ireland. When in Ireland, the best way to explore the landscape is by car. You will find many car rental companies in Dublin and Belfast and discovering Ireland by car is popular with tourists. You can also get around Ireland easily and quickly by train and bus. Buses are the best way to explore the country and there are good connections between Dublin and Galway, Belfast and Dublin, Cork and Limerick and Galway and Sligo. Cities in Ireland can boast good public transport and Dublin in particular has a very good tram. Enjoy your trip!
Ireland might just be the world’s most enchanting destination. This historic country is well-known for its famous, lively atmosphere, as well as for its famous cities, attractions, and romantic sweeping landscapes. Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Killarney all feature an array of fascinating attractions and beautiful views and are just a few of Ireland’s most iconic stops that await those staying in Ireland holiday cottages.
Getting to Ireland
There are many airports in Ireland, large and small. The four main ones are Shannon, Cork, Knock, and Dublin, which is by far the largest in the country. Minor airports include Donegal and Galway. You can also arrive by ship from the UK and France. From your arrival point, you can reach your end holiday accommodation by using the country’s extensive train and bus network, or by driving yourself. It’s recommended to rent a car during your stay in your holiday cottage, because many of Ireland’s best spots are in remote, difficult to access areas.
Top things to eat and drink when in Ireland
For food and drink lovers, Ireland is something of a dream destination to rent a holiday cottage. Most famous probably is the iconic Irish beer, Guinness. Served in every pub and bar across the land, it’s a deep black colour with a creamy white head and is truly delicious. If you go to the right place, they’ll even craft the head of the beer into a shamrock for you, one of Ireland’s many lucky symbols. Knock a few of those back and you’ll sleep well in your Irish holiday cottage no problem.
But Ireland also boasts a real traditional food culture. Wherever your accommodation is, you’ll never be far from the sea, and one of the must tries is a classic fish chowder – that’s a thick fish soup to you and me, made from the meaty types of ‘white’ fish out there. Wash that down with a Guinness and you’ll be happy as Larry.
Ireland is also famed for its stew. Normally made with mutton, potatoes, and onion, the stew is packed with pearl barley and filled with herby flavour.
Weather in Ireland
Ireland is a lush country, with green open spaces and stunning landscapes, which is a result of its unpredictable climate. You never know quite what you're going to get in Ireland! The good news is that Ireland's weather is seldom extreme, so it won't be too cold or hot whenever you visit. Spring brings pleasant temperatures and sunshine, summer is characterised by long hours of sunlight, and winter and autumn bring cool but manageable temperatures. Because you can't always know what the weather will be like, it's advisable to bring many layers of clothing for all kinds of weather to your Ireland holiday accommodation.
Things to do in Ireland
Ireland blends culture, history, and natural beauty, so there’ll always be something to do during your stay in Ireland holiday cottages.
The capital city, Dublin, is a good starting point for your trip. This thriving city has beautiful architecture and many excellent pubs, making it one of Europe’s most unique destinations. There are many, many attractions to see.
See one of the world’s most beautiful libraries at Trinity College, or see an outstanding art collection featuring Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh at the National Gallery of Ireland. St. Patrick’s Cathedral dates all the way back to 1220 and offers a glimpse into old, medieval Dublin. Even if you’re not normally a beer drinker, stop by the Guinness Storehouse for a taste of the black liquid as well as a history of the famous drink.
On Ireland’s gorgeous west coast lie the Cliffs of Moher, one of the country’s most spectacular sights. These 230 metre cliffs stand tall over the Atlantic Ocean and will be a highlight of your trip, so don’t forget your camera. Speaking of cameras - a photo with the Blarney Stone is an essential experience when visiting Ireland. Give it a kiss and hope its magic rubs off on you. It’s located in Blarney Castle, which dates back to 1446.
Visit Kilkenny to experience one of Ireland’s best cities. The city has plenty of attractions, including Kilkenny Castle, Black Abbey, and St. Canice’s Cathedral, but the real draw is its atmosphere and general vibe. The nightlife, beautiful narrow streets and famous Irish personality makes it a must do for those staying in Ireland holiday lettings.
Best things to do in Ireland with kids
Ireland, with a young population itself, has plenty to do for kids. If you’re accommodation is in Dublin, then your first destination should be the brand new Dublin water park. Fitted with climbing frames, slides, and even a water-based obstacle course, it’s sure to tire the kids out enough for the evening. Another classic outdoor Ireland activity is going rafting on the Longford Rapids. Not only are the rapids beautiful, winding their way through leafy Irish countryside, but they’re an adrenaline rush, too, with waves aplenty.
If your kids are interested in geography, then the Copper Coast Geopark near Waterford is well worth checking out – Waterford has some beautiful holiday cottages, too. With extraordinary rock formations, some of which are more than 460 million years old, it’s a real nature trip.
Ireland, with its centuries old Celtic culture, is a great place to soak up some history. If you’re in the mood for some music, then Ireland has a buzzing folk scene. Head into really any traditional bar on a Sunday evening - wherever your accommodation is - and you’ll find a small band playing traditional Irish folk, complete with a fiddle and the Bodhran (a little like a tambourine).For something a little different, it’s worth heading just outside of Cork to Blarney Castle. Built into the battlements is the Blarney Stone – a piece of limestone that is said to confer the ability to speak eloquently when it’s kissed.
Ireland’s annual events
Ireland hosts many events that take place all across the year. These are usually big celebrations with plenty of atmosphere and fun. They also honour Ireland’s rich cultural history, as in the case of Dublin Writers Week, when internationally recognized authors gather for a series of talks and workshops.
Book your Ireland holiday lettings for March 17th and you’ll get to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in its home country. Events take place all over the land and wherever your Ireland holiday home is, you won’t be too far from a celebration. At the very least, head to the local pub and have a couple of pints of Guinness to celebrate. In Dublin, the celebrations run from the 17th to the 20th, with parades, events and music entertaining the many thousands who gather for the festival.
Each October, tens of thousands of visitors descend upon Cork for the Jazz Festival, a famous event that always promises some of the best jazz in Europe. More than 90 venues host events across the city during the festival, which has been held annually since 1978. As well as performances, there are also street shows, lectures, and much more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average price per night for a holiday home in Ireland?
Nightly rates for holiday rentals in Ireland start from around £40. Prices vary depending on the type of holiday let, season, and amenities. HomeToGo helps you filter by price to match your budget.
How many holiday lettings are available to book in Ireland? And what are the most popular types of holiday lets?
Currently there are 32,948 holiday homes in Ireland to choose from and book for your upcoming trip. The most popular types of holiday lets in Ireland include house rentals and apartment rental. These are perfect for groups of around 7 people, offering comfort and flexibility. HomeToGo makes it easy to find a holiday home that fits your needs.
What is the most popular holiday home amenity in Ireland?
The most popular amenities among our customers in Ireland are Pets allowed, Internet and Pool.
Do you offer holiday homes with a swimming pool in Ireland?
Yes, 9% of holiday homes in Ireland come with a swimming pool. With 3,088 properties available, it’s a popular choice for those looking to unwind or entertain. Find your perfect poolside getaway on HomeToGo.
What is the best time of year to travel to Ireland?
July and August are the best months for sun lovers in Ireland.
Where can I see deals on holiday rentals in Ireland?
You can get great value holiday lettings in Ireland with the cost per night for a rental starting at just £40 - and HomeToGo has introduced a range of filters that mean it's easy to locate the top deals. When thinking about the timing for a trip, try a search using HomeToGo's flexible dates technology to scan for lower cost time periods and find savings of as much as 10%. Additionally, HomeToGo's 'distance from' filter enables you to discover hidden gem holiday homes in lower-price, lesser-known locales with good proximity to the area of your choice, whether that's a beach, lake, ski region or city centre. Start searching with time to spare to get the best of good availability and top discounts - and do so free from stress by selecting HomeToGo's 'free cancellation' filter as you look for the perfect holiday home.
What are the pros of booking a holiday letting in Ireland with HomeToGo?
From serenity away from the crowds to plenty of room to enjoy with your travel companions, holiday lettings in Ireland offer plenty of advantages. HomeToGo shows you real reviews from verified visitors, and searching is safe, simple, and stress-free - so with 32,948 lets from 78 providers in the vicinity, you're sure to uncover the perfect place to stay with all of the amenities you need in Ireland.
Do you offer holiday accommodation for couples in Ireland?
Absolutely – you’ll find plenty of cosy, well-rated holiday lettings in Ireland perfect for two. Think cosy cottages or stylish apartments for a peaceful escape. Find your perfect base with HomeToGo.
Can I book a waterfront holiday rental in Ireland?
Absolutely! You’ll find 24780 holiday rentals close to lakes, rivers or the sea in Ireland. They're great for beach lovers or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat by the water. Filter your search by ‘Near water’ on HomeToGo to see your options.
Why should I book my holiday rental with HomeToGo?
From seaside cottages to city apartments, HomeToGo has the best holiday rentals out there. You’ll enjoy a simple booking process, local expertise, and top prices from trusted providers. Discover your ideal holiday home with ease on HomeToGo.
Can I find family-friendly holiday lettings in Ireland?
Yes, there are lots of family-friendly holiday homes in Ireland. You’ll find options for every budget and family size. Use HomeToGo to discover the best places to stay with the whole gang.
Can I cancel my holiday rental booking for free?
Yes, many holiday lettings on HomeToGo offer free cancellation. HomeToGo makes it easy to find flexible bookings.
Is it possible to rent a holiday home for a weekend getaway in Ireland?
Need a weekend getaway in Ireland? Lots of holiday rentals offer short stays for a quick and easy break. Many homes offer short stays without long commitments. Discover your ideal holiday home with ease on HomeToGo.
Are there any last-minute holiday rental deals in Ireland?
There are plenty of last-minute holiday homes in Ireland available at reduced prices. With HomeToGo, you can find great value — and save up to 10%, even at short notice. Check often and book quickly to grab the best offers.