Language: Irish Gaelic    |    Currency: Euro (€)    |    Local time: GMT   |    Avg. Flight time: 1 hrs

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 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.

When to go

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.

Events for your diary

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.