It’s time to start planning the winter getaway as the holiday season approaches. If you haven’t considered Ireland as a holiday “vacation location”, you should! Ireland is a popular destination and one of our favorites during the Christmas time. In this post, we’ll pack-in the best cities to visit in Ireland during the Christmas Holiday.
Ireland is full of charming cities, friendly locals (and the locals are fantastic), and a festive holiday atmosphere. The Christmas Markets for many cities and towns in Ireland run from the second week of November through the first week in January.
Dublin & Galway
One of the most popular cities to visit during the holiday season is Dublin, the capital city of Ireland. Dublin has a lively atmosphere, with numerous pubs, restaurants, and shops decorated for the holiday season.
Dublin during the Christmas season is nothing short of magical! The city comes alive with sparkling lights, festive markets, and cozy pubs offering warm drinks and holiday cheer. From strolling down the beautifully illuminated Grafton Street to experiencing traditional Irish music and storytelling by a roaring fire, Dublin offers a holiday experience that’s both vibrant and heartwarming.
Another city that is worth visiting during the Christmas holidays is Galway. Galway is a city located in the West of Ireland. It has a vibrant culture and incredibly beautiful scenery, as does most of Ireland!
Galway is a picture-perfect destination for the Christmas season, brimming with charm and festive spirit. The famous Galway Christmas Market transforms Eyre Square into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and delicious seasonal treats. Add in the city’s vibrant arts scene and cozy coastal vibes, and you’ll find Galway is the perfect mix of tradition and holiday magic.
We’ll highlight these cities and a few others we’ve found to be the best to visit in Ireland during the Christmas season.
Why Visit Ireland During Christmas Holiday
Ireland is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a magical and unforgettable Christmas experience. We’ve found it ideal for spending the holiday with friends and family of all age groups. The country of Ireland is relatively small and it’s very easy to explore more than one town on your holiday vacation.
The atmosphere of Ireland is full of festive cheer and activities and is a true natural winter wonderland during the winter season. You won’t be disappointed if you put this on your holiday bucket list!
Experience the Magic of Irish Christmas
The people in Ireland are very friendly and there is no lack of warm hospitality here, especially during the Christmas holiday. The country is filled with festive lights, traditional music, and decorations that create a magical atmosphere. You’ll find the spirit of Christmas is around you everywhere you go.
Enjoy Festive Activities and Events
During the Christmas season, Ireland has incredibly diverse activities and events. Everyone in your group is sure to have a wonderful experience! You can visit Christmas markets, carol concerts, or participate in traditional Irish activities like the Wren Boys procession in Kerry (more on that later).
Tip: A good resource to check are the city calendars. Many towns and cities have unique traditions, like Dublin’s 12 Pubs of Christmas pub crawl. The city calendars are usually up-to-date and helpful in finding the best local and traditional experiences during your stay.
Embrace the Christmas Season in Ireland
If you’ve been to Ireland, or just seen photos, you know Ireland is known for its gorgeous green landscapes. The winter brings a different kind of beauty to the country. You get to experience the crisp winter air and stunning views of snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes.
It’s also the perfect time to cozy up with a hot tea or Irish coffee (a personal favorite) or visit one of Ireland’s legendary cozy pubs.
Best Cities for Christmas Celebrations
Here are some of the best cities to visit in Ireland during Christmas and the unforgettable experiences they offer.
Dublin
Dublin is a bustling city with a lot of Christmas spirit. The city center is always beautifully decorated with lights and Christmas trees. The Christmas markets in Dublin are a must-visit. The vendors are incredible and sell everything from handmade crafts to delicious food and drinks. Seeing the Grafton Street Christmas lights in person is also a sight that will awe you!
Waterford
Waterford is a charming city that comes alive during the Christmas season. The city is located in southern Ireland, 170 km from Dublin (a little more than a 2-hour commute). The Waterford Winterval Festival is a highlight of the city’s Christmas celebrations, with a range of events and activities taking place throughout December. The festival includes a Christmas market, ice skating rink, and a Santa’s grotto, among other things.
Cork
Cork, bordered by Waterford, is a vibrant city with a lot of Christmas cheer. The city’s main street is beautifully decorated with lights and Christmas trees, and there are plenty of markets and fairs to visit. The Cork Christmas markets are top-rated, with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food and drinks.
Note: We love Cork, Ireland! This is a great city to visit in Ireland any time of year. The Christmas season makes it even more festive. To dive a little deeper into the history and other fun activites to do in Cork any time of year, we have a great list, here.
Belfast
The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, is a city that knows how to celebrate Christmas. The city center is beautifully decorated with lights and Christmas trees, and there are plenty of markets and fairs to visit. The Belfast Christmas markets are a must-visit, with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food and drinks. The Christmas lights switch-on event is also a highlight of the city’s festive season.
Dingle
Dingle, (just the name itself is festive) is a charming town that is a great place to visit during the Christmas season. The town center is beautifully decorated with lights and Christmas trees, and there are plenty of markets and fairs to visit. The Dingle Christmas markets are particularly popular, with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food and drinks.
Note: No matter which city in Ireland you visit this Christmas holiday, it will be a remarkable and festive experience. A few other popular cities in Ireland that make a truly memorable Christmas season are Mayo, Wicklow, and Limerick. Each has its unique holiday charm, and all celebrate the season with Christmas markets, festive lights, and vendors selling handmade crafts and foods.
Galway City
Galway City, located in the West of Ireland and right on the Atlantic Ocean, is a fun and energetic city that is full of Christmas spirit. The city center is beautifully decorated with lights and Christmas trees, and there are plenty of markets and fairs to visit. The Galway Christmas markets are trendy. This is a great spot to find unique gifts and souvenirs!
Overall, there are plenty of great cities to visit in Ireland during Christmas. Each city has its own unique charm and festive spirit, making it a great destination for anyone looking to celebrate the holiday season.
Festive Events and Traditions for Christmas in Ireland
During the Christmas holiday season, Ireland comes alive with festive events and traditions, which is one of the top reasons we love this destination for the holidays. This is a great trip to take with your family, even the younger ones! Here are some activities to put on your list.
Wren Boys Parade
One of the most beloved traditions in Ireland is the Wren Boys Parade. This is on St. Stephen’s Day (December 26th) in Dingle and many of the towns and villages across the country. This tradition dates back to pagan times when groups of young men dressed in colorful costumes and paraded through the streets with a wren bird on a pole. The parade is accompanied by traditional music and dancing and is a fun way to celebrate the holiday season.
Grafton Street
For those who prefer a more traditional Christmas experience, a visit to Grafton Street in Dublin is a must. This famous shopping street is transformed into a true winter wonderland during the holiday season. You’ll see festive lights and decorations like you’ve never seen before and enjoy carol singers and street performers.
You’ll also get to experience traditional Irish Christmas foods, such as mince pies and Christmas pudding, at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area. Taking part in the holiday foods of Ireland is an experience in itself!
Waterford Winterval
Another popular event is the Waterford Winterval, Ireland’s largest Christmas festival. This is actually a multi-week event. The festival happens in the city of Waterford and features many activities, including a Christmas market, a winter wonderland, and a Santa’s grotto. Visitors can enjoy live music, street performances, and a Christmas morning swim in the River Suir. That is one experience we are working up to doing, but not there yet!
For a truly magical holiday experience, these are some of the best cities to visit in Ireland during the Christmas Holiday.
Irish Christmas Food and Drink
The really important stuff: Christmas food and drink in Ireland! And, Ireland has a lot to offer. From warm, hearty stews to sweet treats, there are plenty of options for everyone to enjoy, especially during the holiday season. Here are some of our favorite Irish Christmas foods and drinks:
Food
- Roast Turkey: The centerpiece of many Christmas dinners in Ireland is a delicious roast turkey. It’s often served with stuffing, gravy, and all the trimmings.
- Christmas Pudding: This rich, fruity pudding is a staple of Irish Christmas desserts. It’s usually made with dried fruit, spices, and plenty of brandy or whiskey.
- Mince Pies: These are small, sweet pies filled with a mixture of dried fruit, spices, and sometimes a bit of brandy. They’re a popular Christmas treat in Ireland.
- Boxty: This traditional Irish potato pancake is often served as a side dish with Christmas dinner. It’s made with grated potatoes, flour, and milk or buttermilk.
Drink
- Mulled Wine: Warm up on a cold winter night with a steaming mug of mulled wine. It’s made by heating red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Irish Coffee: This classic Irish drink is perfect for warming up after a long day of Christmas shopping. It’s made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and whipped cream. A favorite!
- Guinness: No visit to Ireland is complete without trying a pint of Guinness. This dark, creamy beer is a popular choice during the holiday season.
Pubs
- The Temple Bar: Located in the heart of Dublin, The Temple Bar is one of Ireland’s most famous pubs. It’s a great place to enjoy a pint of Guinness and listen to live music during the Christmas season.
- The Brazen Head: This historic pub in Dublin dates back to 1198 and is said to be Ireland’s oldest pub. It’s a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some traditional Irish music during the holidays.
Afternoon Tea
- The Shelbourne Hotel: Treat yourself to a festive afternoon tea at The Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin. You’ll enjoy a selection of sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, all served with a pot of tea or a glass of bubbly.
- The Westbury: This is a luxury hotel in Dublin that offers a Christmas-themed afternoon tea, complete with gingerbread men, mince pies, and other holiday treats. It’s the perfect indulgence for the holiday season!
Overall, you can’t go wrong! Ireland is an excellent destination for food and drink lovers during the Christmas season. Everyone will be sure to discover a favorite dish and drink.
Christmas Shopping and Decorations
When it comes to Christmas shopping, our favorites are the Christmas markets in Dublin, Cork, and Galway. These markets are perfect for picking up unique gifts and souvenirs. You can find everything from handmade crafts to the most beautiful and delicious Christmas treats (a real example of “eating with your eyes”)!
If you’re looking for upscale, we suggest checking out the shops in Dublin’s Grafton Street. You’ll find luxury brands and high-end boutiques perfect for special gifts here. If you’re looking for something unique, head to the city’s Creative Quarter to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces from local designers.
Regarding Christmas decorations to buy for home, Ireland has some of the most beautiful options. We suggest checking out the Christmas stores in Dublin. You’ll find everything from traditional decorations to quirky and fun options. They will always have something new you can add to your holiday home decorations!
To end a fun day of shopping and site-seeing, we recommend strolling down Grafton Street and Henry Street to see the beautiful Christmas lights and window displays. The Waterford Eye is also a must-do. This is a giant Ferris wheel that offers spectacular views of the city and its festive decorations.
And if you’re lucky, you may spot some elves in the city’s streets, spreading Christmas cheer and joy to all. Presents, decorations, or festive fun, Ireland has everything you need for a magical Christmas holiday.
Accommodation and Booking
When it comes to traveling during the Christmas holiday season, plan and book your accommodations well in advance. This is important for both availability and a price standpoint. With so many visitors traveling to Ireland during this time, it can be challenging to secure a room if you wait too long.
Our picks for accommodations
A top hotel to consider is the Merrion Hotel in Dublin. They decorate beautifully for the Christmas holiday! They also provide a special Christmas dinner and have live music to add to your festivities.
Family Friendly
If your traveling with family and have young ones, the Ashling Hotel in Dublin is an excellent family-friendly choice for the Christmas season. Located near Dublin Zoo and the Phoenix Park, it offers convenient access to festive attractions like the Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo, providing a magical experience for both children and adults.
Budget-Friendly
On the budget-friendly side, the REZz Dublin or Maldron Hotel are good options. Located in the heart of Temple Bar on Dame Lane, REZz Dublin offers affordable accommodations ideal for exploring Dublin’s festive attractions. The hotel features modern rooms designed for relaxation after a day of sightseeing, and its proximity to Dublin’s winter markets and vibrant nightlife will make it a convenient base for you.
Overlooking St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Maldron Hotel provides budget-friendly rooms within walking distance of Dublin’s main shopping areas and Christmas markets. The hotel’s Grain & Grill Restaurant offers festive dining options, making it a comfortable and convenient choice if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the city’s holiday spirit. Note: there is a three night minimum stay at the Maldron.
Travel Tips and Information
Weather
December in Ireland can be chilly and wet, so make sure to pack warm and waterproof clothes. The average temperature during this time of the year is around 7°C (45°F), but it can drop to freezing point. It’s also important to note that daylight hours are shorter during the winter, so plan your activities accordingly.
Travel Offers
Keep an eye out for travel offers and discounts during the holiday season. Many hotels and airlines offer special deals during this time of the year so that you can save money on your trip. It’s also a good idea to book your accommodation and transport in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes.
Attractions
Ireland is home to many attractions that are worth visiting during Christmas. Some of the popular ones include the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, the Guinness Storehouse, and the Titanic Belfast. Make sure to check the opening hours of these attractions before you visit, as some may have limited hours during the holiday season.
Currency
The euro is used in Ireland. It’s a good idea to carry some with you, as some places may not accept credit cards.
Emergency Notifications
In case of an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for assistance. Over the busy holiday season you may also want to consider registering with your embassy or consulate, so they can reach you in case of an emergency.
Travel Times
The holiday season is busy in Ireland, so expect crowds and long wait times at popular attractions. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the weekdays or early in the morning. It’s also important to plan your travel times in advance, as public transport may have limited schedules during the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the must-see attractions in Ireland during Christmas?
Ireland is home to several stunning attractions that are particularly magical during the Christmas season. The Cliffs of Moher, for example, offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and are particularly beautiful when dusted with snow. Dublin’s Grafton Street is also a popular destination, with its festive lights and street performers. The Christmas markets mentioned above are also a must-see attraction during the holiday season.
What are some of the unique Christmas experiences to have in Ireland?
Ireland is known for its rich Christmas traditions and there are several unique experiences to be had during the holiday season. Attending a traditional Irish Christmas dinner, complete with turkey and ham, is a must-do. You can also experience a traditional Irish Christmas by attending a mass or carol service at one of the many churches throughout the country. Finally, taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Dublin or Galway is a unique and romantic way to experience the festive season.