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31 January 2025

Indulge yourself in a city break on the island of Ireland

Whatever ingredients make up your perfect city break, you’ll find them on the island of Ireland.

Named by Lonely Planet as the number one region in the world for travellers in 2018 along with the Causeway Coast, Belfast is a highly popular destination for a short break. Visit the world’s number one tourist attraction, Titanic Belfast, which has recently reopened after a multi-million pound refreshment and now has four exciting new themed galleries. Then head for a rooftop bar to sip a cocktail and drink in the views. The Grand Central Hotel’s Observatory is the tallest cocktail lounge on the island of Ireland and offers wonderful views over the city and beyond as well as some masterful mixology.

At the other end of the island, Cork is the ideal place for lovers of fine food. Considered to be the culinary capital of Ireland, it boasts excellent restaurants and awesome artisan food. Take the Cork Culinary Tour and feast on local epicurean delights while learning about the city’s history. The tour includes a visit to the city’s famous English Market where you’ll get the chance to sample the freshest seafood.

In Dublin’s fair city there is no end of pampering to be enjoyed. Spoil yourself with a stay at the Merrion Hotel, the capital’s most luxurious five-star hotel and one of the Leading Hotels of the World. The elegant rooms reflect the Georgian setting and from the minute you step into the hotel you are treated like royalty. The hotel’s spa offers a range of gold-standard treatments that are pure indulgence.

A short break in Derry~Londonderry delivers the perfect combination of culture and craic. The Walled City’s fascinating history can be explored in its many museums or on a guided tour of the 400-year-old walls. Head to the Walled City Brewery to sample some craft beer or to Peadar O’Donnell’s for an evening of trad music. Fans of the hit TV show Derry Girls should take the walking tour of the city that visits the girls’ favourite haunts including Dennis’s Wee Shop.

Sitting on the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway city has a bohemian buzz that has given it the reputation as one of Ireland’s most enjoyable destinations. If music is your go-to for a good night out you’ll be spoiled for choice. Call in at Taaffes Bar, one of the city’s favourite Irish music venues, or combine good food and music at An Púcán. The city is also famous for its many festivals including the Galway International Arts Festival in July and the Oyster and Seafood Festival in September.

For more information visit: www.ireland.com