In short: for a first trip to Ireland, base yourself in Dublin for the east, Galway for the west, Killarney or Dingle for Kerry, and Belfast for the north. B&Bs and guesthouses are the best value outside the cities, and you should book early for summer, festivals and big match weekends.
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Where you stay can make or break a trip to Ireland. Pick the right bases and you’ll spend your days exploring rather than sitting in the car.
I’ve stayed in hotels, B&Bs, hostels and holiday rentals all over Ireland, and used Airbnb in Ireland, Australia, Canada and Central America. This guide replaces my old Airbnb coupon page, since Airbnb no longer runs that offer. Here’s where to stay in Ireland, region by region, and how to choose the right type of place.
Jump to
- Dublin
- Galway
- Killarney and Kerry
- Cork
- Kilkenny
- Belfast
- Types of accommodation
- What about Airbnb?
- Booking tips
- FAQ
The best places to stay in Ireland
Dublin
Most trips start in Dublin. Stay central so you can walk to the sights: Temple Bar and around Trinity College for nightlife, St Stephen’s Green and the Georgian quarter for something calmer, or Smithfield and the Docklands for better value. Dublin is the most expensive place to stay in Ireland, so book well ahead. Hotels in Dublin. Plan your days with our guide to things to do in Dublin.
Galway
Galway is the best base for the west: Connemara, the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher are all within reach. Stay in or near the Latin Quarter for the pubs and live music. Prices jump during Galway Races week at the end of July and the arts festival in July, so book early for summer. Hotels in Galway.
Killarney and Kerry
Killarney is the classic base for the Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park, with plenty of hotels and B&Bs in town. For a smaller, more charming base, try Kenmare, or Dingle for the Slea Head Drive and the Blasket Islands. Hotels in Killarney or places to stay in Dingle.
Cork
Ireland’s second city is a great food destination, and a good base for Kinsale, Cobh and Blarney Castle. Stay near the English Market and the city centre. Hotels in Cork. More ideas in our guide to things to do in Cork.
Kilkenny
A compact medieval city that’s perfect for a night or two between Dublin and the south. Stay in the centre and you can walk to the castle and the Medieval Mile. Hotels in Kilkenny, and see our Kilkenny itinerary.
Belfast
The best base for the north and the Causeway Coast. The city centre and Cathedral Quarter are best for pubs and restaurants. Remember Belfast uses pounds sterling, and many visitors need a UK ETA. Hotels in Belfast, and see our Belfast guide.
Types of accommodation in Ireland
Hotels
Everything from city-centre chains to grand country houses. Good for short city breaks and if you want a bar and restaurant on site.
B&Bs and guesthouses
The classic Irish stay: a room in a family home or small guesthouse, with a full Irish breakfast and local tips included. Great value outside the cities.
Castle and country house hotels
For a special occasion, Ireland has some famous castle hotels, such as Ashford Castle in Co. Mayo, Dromoland Castle in Co. Clare and Adare Manor in Co. Limerick. Expect to pay for the privilege.
Self-catering cottages
Ideal for families or a week in one area, especially in the west. Many are traditional cottages with a modern fit-out.
Hostels
Ireland has good independent hostels, many with private rooms, in all the main towns and along the Wild Atlantic Way.
What about Airbnb?
Airbnb still has plenty of listings in Ireland, especially cottages and rooms in rural areas, and it can be good value for families and longer stays. Read the reviews, check the cleaning and service fees before you book, and look at exactly where the property is: “near Galway” can mean a 40-minute drive. In the cities, a hotel or guesthouse is often just as good value and more flexible.
Tips for booking a place to stay in Ireland
- Book early for summer. June to August is peak season, and Dublin, Galway and Kerry fill up fast.
- Watch for big events. Concerts, festivals and big GAA and rugby weekends push Dublin prices sky-high.
- Choose free cancellation where you can, so you can adjust your route.
- Don’t change base every night. Two or three nights in each place is far more relaxing.
- Check parking if you’re driving. City-centre hotels often charge extra. Compare car hire on Discover Cars.
Planning the route? See our best Irish road trips and the Wild Atlantic Way guide.
FAQ
What is the best area to stay in Ireland for a first visit?
Split your time between Dublin and the west. Two nights in Dublin, two or three in Galway, and two or three in Kerry is a great first trip.
Is accommodation in Ireland expensive?
Dublin is expensive, especially at weekends. Prices drop a lot in smaller towns and outside the summer months, and B&Bs are usually the best value.
Is it better to stay in one place or move around?
Use two or three bases rather than moving every night. Ireland is small, and day trips from a good base cover a lot of ground.
Keep planning
Featured photo: Ashford Castle from the northwest by Grendelkhan, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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