Most clichés are only clichés because they're true, and Ireland is a case in point. What images spring to mind when you think of Ireland? The Emerald Isle? A pint of the black stuff? Wild and windswept beaches? A good craic? All clichés, all true, and all available on Ireland holidays. Discover the country's literary history dating back thousands of years, or try your hand at sports such as Gaelic football and hurling. Keen golfers need look no further: the courses, such as the dramatic Old Head Course Kinsale, are completely spectacular. Most importantly, all our trips are totally tailor-made, and we can create a perfect itinerary taking in everything from the delights of Dublin to the deserted beaches on the west coast that mark the last stop before the New World. And while the physical locations are very much part of the appeal, it's the people and their innate charm and hospitality that really sets Ireland apart, be that in romantic and rustic abodes or in the pubs, restaurants and music venues of the capital.

Ireland holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Why visit Ireland with Original Travel

Visit the Emerald Isle for a diverse dose of rugged natural beauty, lively cities and a rich history. Wherever your interests lie, we can organise experiences ranging from oyster farm visits (and tastings) and Game of Thrones tours, to falconry and out-of-hours access to Trinity College. Ireland’s people set it apart, and who better to showcase the passion and warmth of Irish hospitality than our excellent local guides? On your trip, our friendly Concierge is just a WhatsApp away to offer support and insider tips. We’ve got your dream accommodation covered, too, be it a luxurious country house or a quaint family-run guesthouse.

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A few of the benefits of travelling with us to Ireland

  • Our local Concierges
  • The Original Travel app
  • Airport lounge access
  • Destination Dossier
  • 24-hour helpline
  • Expert guides
  • 100% carbon absorption

Travel to Ireland by Region

Connemara

Connemara and the surrounding area is a rugged landscape of brooding hills and moors, inlets to the wild coast and ever-changing weather patterns. Ashford Castle is worth visiting the region for alone, but the beautifully barren hills laced with stone walls are also perfect for hiking or cycling. Oscar Wilde was correct when he described Connemara as a 'savage beauty' with its dark lakes and raw untamed hills sweeping into white sandy beaches. A brilliant way to see the landscape is with an experienced fisherman in a seashore foraging experience. This highly valued member of the Coastguard not only leads rescue operations on life-boats, but knows all about the wildlife of the area. Whilst foraging, hear about tales and stories of Connemara from a true local.

Cork

Based around an island near the mouth of the River Lee, Cork is renowned for its independent spirit that embraces its culture, heritage and vibrancy. The city itself is relatively compact and boasts an excellent selection of cafes and restaurants that are testament to its rich culinary tradition. On your Cork holidays you can meander through the medieval streets to the Cork City Jail for a taste of prison life in the 19th century as well as the Crawford Art Gallery and the Blackrock Castle Observatory.

County Kerry

The Ring of Kerry (or Iveragh Peninsula, to give it its correct name) is a mystical and unspoiled region of Ireland that charms anyone who sets foot there with its spectacular beauty. The coastline boasts white sandy beaches whilst inland the Ring of Kerry provides an amazing insight into the ancient heritage of Ireland; the Iron Age Forts & Ogham Stones are well worth a visit. To get the best vantage point of the magnificent landscape on your Country Kerry holidays, give riding, cycling or hiking a try.

Dublin

Ireland's capital is a bustling and dynamic city that has seen a lot of redevelopment over recent years. The result is a mix of sleek architecture that sits harmoniously beside the buildings of historic Dublin; Georgian mansions, churches, castles and - of course - pubs! On your Dublin holidays you can wander through the stylish Georgian streets, with an expert Irish guide, to see the grand Dublin Castle and the architecturally impressive Cathedrals of St Patricks and Christ Church. And no visit to Dublin would be complete without a visit to Temple Bar; Dublin's cultural quarter where the cobbled, medieval streets are lined with pubs and galleries. We can arrange a private Irish dancing experience with a lead member of the sell-out show Riverdance, or an out of hours visit to see the beautiful Book of Kells in Trinity College library, one of the most wonderful buildings in Ireland. Visit the National Stud with an equestrian expert and then enjoy an exclusive tour of a leading trainer's stables before enjoying hospitality at the races.

The Cliffs of Moher & County Clare

The Wild West Coast of Ireland is a region suffused with traditional music, engaging local communities and rugged coastlines. The majestic Cliffs of Moher, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, are one of Ireland's most spectacular sights, and a must-visit on your Country Clare holidays. Located just north of Lahinch, the cliffs rise from the Atlantic to heights of 700ft and stretch for five miles along the coast. The cliffs have one of the most astonishing views in Ireland, and on a clear day the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay, as are the valleys and hills of Connemara.

Our Ireland holiday collections

Discover different ways to explore Ireland

Ireland Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

Ireland Testimonials

1 reviews
4.5 / 5
"We had an extraordinary trip to the Kerry region of Ireland. Thanks to the expert advice of our advisor, we were able to explore the region at our own pace with services that were always top notch and the brilliant concierge that was always on hand to suggest something brilliant at the last minute. Thank you for the support, I highly recommend Original Travel."
Joyce - Sheffield
Published on 11th August 2019

Our Ireland
specialists

Having travelled all over this historic island nation, our consultants know a thing or two about Ireland holidays. We’re not afraid to get creative when planning your trip, arranging diverse activities like period dress-up experiences, Gaelic games and hill sheep farming demonstrations. Whether it’s driving Ireland’s scenic Sky Road or hitting the Ring of Kerry, we’re in-the-know about the best routes to take. Our Concierges are always on hand to keep everything running smoothly while on your trip, sharing everything from their favourite restaurants to off-the-beaten-track beauty spots.

Best places to go in Ireland



100% tailor-made holidays

Understanding Your Needs

Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday

Personalisation

We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities

Our Services

All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges