Ireland’s buzzing city streets are all about having a great time. Easy-going locals, famous sights, and music, art and literature around every corner make for an unforgettable short break at any time of the year
Galway
Culture vultures will find a perfect city break within Galway’s bohemian, artsy vibe. Right in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way, the city has a reputation for artistic creativity and an infectious up-tempo vibe that’s played out in a full calendar of festivals and events. From music and horseracing to literature and oysters –
Galway knows how to celebrate.
Throughout the year there’s a party atmosphere that gives this place a special edge. It’s no wonder people pour into the hopping bars, traditional pubs and fantastic restaurants every weekend. Wander the cobble-stoned streets and experience the wonderful atmosphere, unique shopping and top class dining. Whenever you arrive, there will probably be some kind of cultural shindig going on, be it art, horseracing, music, literature or food.
The flamboyant arts scene attracts visitors from all over the world, with a whirlwind of activity that includes the much-trumpeted Galway International Arts Festival and the indulgent Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival.
And if it’s social glamour you’re after, then don a fancy hat at the summer Galway Races, when 250,000 people converge at the Galway Racecourse.
Memorable moment: get under the skin of the gastronomic hotspots with a Galway Food Tour.
Dublin
It’s easy to get lost in the charms of the Irish capital’s bustling streets and super friendly people. The world-famous blend of culture, classic attractions, hidden gems and excellent social scene – all framed by the natural playgrounds of Dublin Bay and the Dublin Mountains – make Dublin a unique Irish adventure.
Memorable moment: crafting your own pint of the ‘black stuff’ at the Guinness Storehouse.
Derry~Londonderry
The famous Walled City and former UK City of Culture boasts museums, galleries, historical sites and beautiful outdoor spaces to enjoy. Tours of the city walls and the wider area are a must, whether on foot, by bus, taxi or a cruise down the River Foyle.
Some advice: don’t just visit Derry~Londonderry, live it. Don’t rush the walls, stroll them. Don’t scan the Guildhall, drink it in. First time here? Take a tour and meet the locals. Hear the Foyle River thunder under the Peace Bridge, drool over hot-buttered soda farls in your new favourite café, and follow your ear to best traditional music session in town.
Don’t stand on the sidelines in the Walled City, be part of it. You’ll be glad you did.
Memorable moment: a lazy afternoon exploring the eclectic vintage scene.
Belfast
For a city you can visit again and again, it’s got to be Belfast. In its Victorian heyday, it built the Titanic. Now it boasts Titanic Belfast, the world's biggest museum dedicated to the ship. Other highlights include St George’s Market, the Ulster Museum,
the throbbing Cathedral Quarter and
great restaurants such as the Michelin-starred Deanes and OX.
This modern city is an eclectic medley of cultural treasures, with its mix of Victorian grandeur, industrial grit and living history.
At Titanic Belfast, delve into where it all began for the Ship of Dreams; or take a journey through the city's past to its vibrant present at the visitor exhibition in imposing Belfast City Hall.
Outside the city, you can follow in the footsteps of legends at the Giant's Causeway, dive into an exciting range of watersports at beautiful Strangford Lough, or wield your broadsword like a member of the Kingsguard on a Game of Thrones® locations tour.
72 Hours In Belfast?
Don't miss this itinerary!
Memorable moment: a stop at the Crown Bar, an ornate Victorian gin palace owned by the National Trust.
Cork
Is Cork the best place in the world? The locals certainly think so. One thing you’ll notice about this breezy, cosmopolitan city in Ireland’s southwest is that it inspires a devotion in its dwellers that no other place can rival.
Sitting proudly on an island in the middle of the River Lee, Cork is a bustling collection of cool coffee shops, vibrant art galleries, unusual museums and seriously good pubs. Despite being a city, there’s a decidedly towny feel here – life is laidback, nothing is too much hassle. Pleasantly compact, friendly, and with a wry sense of humour, Cork does things its own way whether it’s jazz festivals or craft beers.
Beyond the city limits, you’ll find Titanic history, epic castles and pretty seaside towns are easily within reach. One of the most popular daytrips from Cork is to Cobh, a beautiful seaport town with a bittersweet history.a beautiful seaport town with a bittersweet history.
Check out:
Cork City Top 9 Attractions