16 min
Best Places to Stay in Ireland: Lodging Advice for Your Vacation Traveling in Ireland
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- Places & Travel
Ireland vacation lodging is as varied as the landscape. From hostels within a national park to castles fit for royalty; Ireland offers accommodation options for everyone from budget to luxury travelers.
Most Ireland travelers find themselves somewhere in between the two extremes and choosing the best places to stay in Ireland is based on your vacation dreams, your planned itinerary, and your budget.
Tips for Finding Accommodations in Ireland
You won't find many large hotel chains in Ireland. Most accommodations are independently owned and family run, though some may belong to larger associations like Blue Book, Original Irish Hotels, and B&B Ireland, to assist with promotion.
Looking for recommended accommodations in a specific location?Search by county here!
Choosing a Hotel in Ireland
I loved my room at The Morgan Hotel in Dublin's city centre
The first thing to realize is that the hotel star-rating system is completely subjective. A 3 star hotel in Ireland may be closer to a 2 star hotel in the US, but a 5-star hotel is a 5 star hotel the world over.
Choose a hotel stay for the experience. Be it a central location, incredible pampering, the chance to sleep like royalty, or hundreds of acres of land with adventures galore, choose your hotel based on more than the room.
Read the hotel website so you know what is- and is not- included in your stay. And if you are not clear on something, send an email and inquire before you book.
Check Out Ireland's Best Hotels – City by City
Ireland Hotel Tips
* In my experience, 3-star and lower hotels can leave you regretting your choice of lodging. Yes, you pay more for that extra star or two, but it is well worth it.* Be sure of check in and check out times – especially at your first hotel.* Check the amenities. Do you want breakfast included? Make sure your room rate includes it.* If you choose your hotel because it has a pool, know that bathing caps (and sometimes pool shoes) are required and children may only be allowed in pools at approved times.* Check the availability of the creche or kids club if you plan to use it. Some are only open during high season or holiday weekends.* If you're staying in a city, check the map for nearby public transportation. How far will you have to walk to catch a bus or train? If you have a rental car how much will it cost to park (and would you be better off picking up the rental as you leave the city?)
Stay in an Irish Castle
Lough Eske Castle is a peaceful and quiet retreat in Donegal
It's definitely a splurge, but one you won't forget! Ireland is dotted with castle hotels and country houses. Ashford Castle has been named ‘Best in the World' by Travel & Leisure multiple times.
Ireland vacation lodging is as varied as the landscape. From hostels within a national park to castles fit for royalty; Ireland offers accommodation options for everyone from budget to luxury travelers.
Most Ireland travelers find themselves somewhere in between the two extremes and choosing the best places to stay in Ireland is based on your vacation dreams, your planned itinerary, and your budget.
Tips for Finding Accommodations in Ireland
You won't find many large hotel chains in Ireland. Most accommodations are independently owned and family run, though some may belong to larger associations like Blue Book, Original Irish Hotels, and B&B Ireland, to assist with promotion.
Looking for recommended accommodations in a specific location?Search by county here!
Choosing a Hotel in Ireland
I loved my room at The Morgan Hotel in Dublin's city centre
The first thing to realize is that the hotel star-rating system is completely subjective. A 3 star hotel in Ireland may be closer to a 2 star hotel in the US, but a 5-star hotel is a 5 star hotel the world over.
Choose a hotel stay for the experience. Be it a central location, incredible pampering, the chance to sleep like royalty, or hundreds of acres of land with adventures galore, choose your hotel based on more than the room.
Read the hotel website so you know what is- and is not- included in your stay. And if you are not clear on something, send an email and inquire before you book.
Check Out Ireland's Best Hotels – City by City
Ireland Hotel Tips
* In my experience, 3-star and lower hotels can leave you regretting your choice of lodging. Yes, you pay more for that extra star or two, but it is well worth it.* Be sure of check in and check out times – especially at your first hotel.* Check the amenities. Do you want breakfast included? Make sure your room rate includes it.* If you choose your hotel because it has a pool, know that bathing caps (and sometimes pool shoes) are required and children may only be allowed in pools at approved times.* Check the availability of the creche or kids club if you plan to use it. Some are only open during high season or holiday weekends.* If you're staying in a city, check the map for nearby public transportation. How far will you have to walk to catch a bus or train? If you have a rental car how much will it cost to park (and would you be better off picking up the rental as you leave the city?)
Stay in an Irish Castle
Lough Eske Castle is a peaceful and quiet retreat in Donegal
It's definitely a splurge, but one you won't forget! Ireland is dotted with castle hotels and country houses. Ashford Castle has been named ‘Best in the World' by Travel & Leisure multiple times.
16 min